Stamp duty in Kerala and property registration charges in 2025

Here is your guide to paying these charges on property purchases.

Under the Registration Act, 1905, homebuyers in Kerala must register property after purchase by duly paying the stamp duty and registration fee to become its legal owner. The Kerala Registration Department, which is responsible for imposing and receiving stamp duty and registration charges, imposes one of the highest rates of stamp duty on property purchase in India.

 

Stamp duty in Kerala and property registration charges in 2025

Registration under the name of Stamp duty as a percentage of the property’s value Registration charges as a percentage of the property’s value
Man 8% 2%
Woman 8% 2%
Joint (man + woman) 8% 2%
Joint (man + man) 8% 2%
Joint (woman + woman) 8% 2%

Source: Kerala Revenue Department

 

While most states in India charge 1% of the deal value as the registration charge – the fee that you pay to the authorities for the paperwork – Kerala charges 2% of the transaction value as the registration charge. This increases the overall cost of property acquisition in Kochi, Kerala.

 

Kerala’s stamp duty and registration charges are among the highest in India, impacting the overall cost of property transactions. To understand this in context, let’s compare these charges with those in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

 

State  Stamp duty  Registration charges
Kerala 8% of property value 2% of property value
Maharashtra 5% in urban areas, 4% in rural areas 1% of property value, capped at ₹30,000
Tamil Nadu 7% of property value 1% of property value
Karnataka 5% of property value 1% of property value

Land registration fees in Kerala in 2025

Registration under the name of Stamp duty for land registration in Kerala Registration charges as a percentage of the property’s value
Man 8% 2%
Woman 8% 2%
Joint (man + woman) 8% 2%
Joint (man + man) 8% 2%
Joint (woman + woman) 8% 2%

Source: Kerala Revenue Department

Stamp duty in Kerala on other property deeds in 2025

Deed type Stamp duty Registration fee
Adoption deed Rs 250 Rs 1,050
Agreement or memorandum of an agreement (to giving authority or power to a promoter or developer, by whatsoever name called, for construction, development or sale or transfer of any immovable property 1% of the value or the estimated cost of construction or consideration or fair value of land whichever is higher, subject to a maximum of Rs 1000 2% on the value or the estimated cost or fair value
Agreement or memorandum of an agreement (if relating to Monthly Deposit Section 2(fb):- “family” means father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, husband, wife, son, adopted son, daughter, adopted daughter, grandchildren, brother and sister (inserted by Kerala Finance Act, 2018) EXISTING RATES OF STAMP DUTY AND REGISTRATION FEES FOR READY REFERENCE (The Kerala Stamp Act, 1959 is last amended by Kerala Finance Act, 2019 and the Table of Registration fees is last amended by G.O.(P) No.113/2019/TD. dated 24.07.2019) [This table is for information purpose only. For more accurate definition of provisions, please refer Schedule to Kerala Stamp Act, 1959 and Table of Registration Fees] Agreement or memorandum of an agreement (if relating to Monthly Deposit Scheme similar to that of chitties, of whatever name called, between a cooperative Bank/Society and a depositor Rs 100 2% on the value or the estimated cost or fair value
Agreement or memorandum of an agreement (If relating to advertisement on mass media) Rs 500 per contract 2% on the value
Agreement, relating to deposit of title deeds (Equitable Mortgage) 0.1%, Minimum Rs 200, Maximum Rs 10,000 Rs 0.1 for every Rs 100 or part there of
Agreement, relating to pawn or Pledge 0.1%, Minimum Rs 200, Maximum Rs 10,000 Rs 0.1 for every Rs 100 or part there of
Release, discharge or cancellation of agreements relating to deposit of title Rs. 0.1 for every Rs 100 or part there deeds, pawn or pledge 0.1%, Minimum Rs 200, Maximum Rs 10,000 Rs 0.1 for every Rs 100 or part there of
Cancellation deed of a previously executed deed (if attested and not otherwise provided for) Rs 500 Rs 210
Certificate of sale – granted to the purchaser of any property sold by public auction by a Civil or Revenue Court or by the Govt., Collector or other Revenue Officer 8% 2%
Copy or Extract: certified to be a true copy or extract by or by order of any public officer and not chargeable under the law for the time being in force relating to court fees Rs 50 For first 10 pages -Rs.210/-, every additional page above first 10 pages – Rs. 5/- per page for a document
Gift in favour of any of the members of the family and/or legal heirs of the deceased family member Two rupees for every rupees 1000 or part thereof, subject to a minimum of rupees 1000. 1% of the fair value or market value whichever is higher
Gift in favour of a non-family person 8% 2% of the fair value / market value whichever is higher
Lease (less than 1 year) 5 rupees for every Rs 100 or part thereof of the whole amount payable 2% of total sum payable under the lease
Lease (not less than 1 year but not more than 5 years) 5 rupees for every Rs.100 or part thereof for Average Annual Rent (AAR) reserved 2% of average annual rent
Lease (exceeding 5 years but not exceeding 10 years) 8 rupees for every Rs.100 or part thereof for Average Annual Rent (AAR) reserved 2% of average annual rent
Lease (exceeding 10 years but not exceeding 20 years) 8 rupees for every Rs.100 or part thereof for twice the AAR reserved 2% of twice the amount of AAR
Lease (exceeding 20 years but not exceeding 30 years) 8 rupees for every Rs.100 or part thereof for thrice the AAR reserved 2% of thrice the amount of AAR
Power of Attorney for sole purpose of Registration in relation to a single transaction Rs 50 Rs 210

Kerala State Budget 2024 Update: The Kerala Budget 2024 introduced an increase in stamp duty for land and building lease agreements. This change reflects the state’s efforts to enhance revenue generation while ensuring compliance with updated lease registration policies.

Increased Stamp Duty for Lease Agreements: The stamp duty for registering lease agreements has been revised. For leases up to 20 years, the duty is now 2% of three times the annual average rent (AAR). For leases exceeding 20 years, it’s 2% of four times the AAR.

 

Enhanced Stamp Duty on Rent Agreements: The stamp duty for registering rent agreements, particularly those for an 11-month period, has increased from ₹200 to ₹500. 

Stamp duty and registration charges in kerala 2025 on various property transactions

In Kerala, stamp duty is applicable to a range of property transactions. The rates differ based on the type of transaction and the relationship between the parties involved. Here’s a breakdown of the most common rates:

 

Document writer’s/scribe’s fee

The charge for document writing services is ₹10.

 

Stamp duty for sale deed in Kerala

The stamp duty on a sale deed is set at 8% of the property’s sale value. This is the standard rate applied in property sale transactions. Additionally, the stamp paper value for a partnership deed in Kerala is 2% of the partnership property’s value.

 

Stamp duty on gift deed

The stamp duty on a gift deed varies depending on the relationship between the donor and the recipient:

  • For close relatives (such as parents, spouse, children, siblings, grandparents, and grandchildren), the stamp duty is 1% of the property’s market value or actual value, whichever is higher.
  • For gifts given to non-relatives, the stamp duty is 2% of the higher of the property’s fair market value or the actual property value.
  • In cases where the gift is made to someone outside the family (non-relatives), the stamp duty can go up to 20% of the property’s value.
  • For all gift deeds, the registration fee is 1% of the fair market or market value, whichever is higher.

For a property to be transferred as a gift, the giver must hold legal ownership and approval of the property. Only immovable property requires the creation of a gift deed under Kerala’s stamp duty laws.

While movable property can also be gifted, a gift deed is only necessary for immovable property under the state’s legal framework.

According to the Indian Contracts Act of 1872, minors cannot directly benefit from a gift deed. If a minor is to receive a gift, it must be done in the name of a legal guardian.

A gift deed, like any contract, must be entered into with free consent. The deed will be considered invalid if the gift is made under pressure, coercion, or influence.

For the gift deed to be legally binding, the receiver must accept the gift during the giver’s lifetime. The receiver’s acceptance is just as important as the giver’s intent, and without this formal acceptance, the gift deed is not valid under the law.

Stamp duty for lease agreement in Kerala

Stamp duty for lease agreements/rent agreements is determined based on the duration of the lease and the annual rent (AAR):

  • For leases up to 1 year, the stamp duty is 5 rupees for every ₹100 or part thereof of the total rent payable.
  • For leases between 1 and 5 years, the stamp duty is 5 rupees for every ₹100 or part thereof based on the Average Annual Rent (AAR) reserved in the lease agreement.
  • For leases between 5 and 10 years, the stamp duty increases to 8 rupees for every ₹100 or part thereof of the AAR.
  • For leases exceeding 10 years but not exceeding 20 years, the stamp duty is 8 rupees for every ₹100 or part thereof of twice the AAR.
  • For leases exceeding 20 years but not exceeding 30 years, the stamp duty is 8 rupees for every ₹100 or part of three times the AAR.
  • The registration fee for lease agreements is 2% of the total sum payable under the lease.

Previously, agreements for 11 months or less were not mandatory to register; however, recent changes have made registration compulsory for all such agreements, including short-term ones.

 

Stamp duty on mortgage deeds in Kerala

  • Mortgage deeds (where property is pledged as security) are charged a stamp duty of 8% of the amount secured when possession is transferred with the deed.
  • The stamp duty is 5% of the amount secured when possession is not transferred.
  • The registration fee for mortgage deeds is 2% of the amount secured.

 

Stamp duty on cancellation deeds in Kerala

  • Cancellation deeds, used to annul a previously executed property agreement, are subject to a stamp duty of ₹500.
  • The registration fee for cancellation deeds is ₹210.

 

Stamp duty for power of attorney in Kerala

For a Power of Attorney (POA) relating to a single transaction:

  • Stamp duty is ₹50 for the POA, and the registration fee is ₹210.

 

Stamp duty on miscellaneous agreements in Kerala

  • Equitable Mortgages: For agreements relating to equitable mortgages, the stamp duty is 0.1%, with a minimum charge of ₹200 and a maximum of ₹10,000. The registration fee is charged at ₹0.1 for every ₹100 or part thereof.
  • Pawn or Pledge Agreements: Similar to mortgages, the stamp duty is 0.1%, with a minimum of ₹200 and a maximum of ₹10,000. The registration fee is again ₹0.1 for every ₹100 or part thereof.

 

These rates ensure that property transactions in Kerala are properly documented and legally recognized, providing clarity and security to both buyers and sellers.

The refund will be deposited into your bank account within two weeks of the government’s payment.

 

Breakdown of costs for different property types

In Kerala, stamp duty and registration charges are generally consistent across various property types, including residential, commercial, and agricultural properties. The standard rates are as follows:

Property type Stamp duty Registration charges
Residential 8% 2%
Commercial 8% 2%
Agricultural 8% 2%

These rates are applied uniformly, irrespective of the property’s usage.

Example calculations

Residential property:

  • Property value: Rs. 50,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 50,00,000 = Rs. 4,00,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 50,00,000 = Rs. 1,00,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 4,00,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 1,00,000 (Registration) = Rs. 5,00,000

 

Commercial property:

  • Property value: Rs. 1,00,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 1,00,00,000 = Rs. 8,00,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 1,00,00,000 = Rs. 2,00,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 8,00,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 2,00,000 (Registration) = Rs. 10,00,000

 

Agricultural land:

  • Property value: Rs. 30,00,000
  • Stamp duty: 8% of Rs. 30,00,000 = Rs. 2,40,000
  • Registration charges: 2% of Rs. 30,00,000 = Rs. 60,000
  • Total charges: Rs. 2,40,000 (Stamp Duty) + Rs. 60,000 (Registration) = Rs. 3,00,000

 

It’s important to note that these charges are calculated based on the property’s fair market value or the transaction value, whichever is higher. Additionally, while the rates are uniform, the overall cost will vary depending on the property’s value. Buyers should also consider other potential costs, such as legal fees and miscellaneous expenses when planning their property purchase.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala for women in Kerala in 2025

The registration department of Kerala does not offer any incentives to women homebuyers. Women home buyers in Kochi pay the same stamp duty and registration charge as their male counterparts.

 

Stamp duty calculation in Kerala

Note: This is for representational purposes only:

Property cost = Rs 50 lakh

Stamp duty = Rs 3.5 lakh (7% of Rs 50 lakh)

Registration charges = Rs 1 lakh (2% of Rs 50 lakh)

Total = Rs 4.5 lakh

See also: How to get encumbrance certificate Kerala

 

Registration charges calculation in Kerala 

Note: This is for representational purposes only.

  • Property cost: Rs 50 lakh
  • Registration charges: Rs 1 lakh (2% of Rs 50 lakh)

Total Registration Charges: Rs 1 lakh

This example focuses solely on calculating the registration charges based on the property’s value.

How to use a stamp duty calculator?

  • Visit the official stamp duty calculator tool. Go to the Stamp Duty details section.
  • Select the state and the area, such as Gram Panchayat or Municipal Corporation and proceed.
  • Submit the property value. Click enter.
  • The stamp duty to be paid will be displayed.
  • After calculating the amount, proceed to pay the registration charges and stamp duty online.

 

List of documents for stamp duty and property registration in Kerala

You will require the following documents for property registration in Kerala:

  • Agreement to sale
  • Sale deed
  • Land map
  • Building plan approval
  • No-objection certificate
  • Share certificate
  • Building plan approval
  • Proof of ownership
  • ID proof: Voter ID, Ration Card, Aadhaar Card, Driving Licence
  • Address proof: Passport, Aadhaar, water bill
  • Proof of identity of any two witnesses

 

How to pay stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala?

Follow our step-by-step guide to register property in any city of Kerala, including Kochi.

Step 1: To initiate online property registration in Kochi, visit the official website of the Registration Department of Kerala and register using a login ID and password. To create the login credentials, visit http://www.keralaregistration.gov.in and click on ‘Online Document Details Entry- User Registration’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 2: A new page will now open. Enter all the required information on this page and press ‘Submit’.

 

Stamp duty in Kochi

 

Your registration on the Kerala registration department portal will be complete.

 

Registratin Department of Kerala

 

All registered users have to follow three crucial steps to register their property in Kerala.

  • They have to select an available time slot.
  • They have to enter the document details.
  • They have to submit the application and get an acknowledgement slip.

Step 3: After logging in, go to ‘Doc Registration’ and fill all the mandatory fields. Click on ‘View Token’. A list of available time slots will be generated. Click on an available slot that suits you.

 

Registration charges in Kochi

 

Step 4: Next, select the transaction type. Choose the transaction type carefully as it cannot be modified later. Click on ‘Submit’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 5: Next, fill in all the mandatory information about the concerned person who is presenting the property for registration and about the property. Fill all the boxes carefully.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 6: Enter the claimant details (buyer’s details).

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 7: Enter the seller’s details. If the property is being sold with a power of attorney, click on the ‘Power of Attorney’ checkbox and fill in the details.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 8: Enter the details of the property to be registered.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 9: If you are buying a flat or apartment in Kochi, click ‘Yes’ on the ‘Is building in property’ option. A new window will open for further details.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 10: In the case of multiple properties and buyers, establish a claimant-property link. Mention which property is attached to which owner.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 11: Mention all the relevant enclosures. This is the list of documents to be provided at the time of registration.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 12: Next, provide witness details. These witnesses will have to be present at the time of property registration. These details can be modified or deleted later.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 13: Enter the details of the stamp paper used.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 14: Use the extra note to provide additional details about the document, if applicable.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 15: Review your selected time and date. Edit the slot, if required, and click on ‘Accept & Submit to SR’ to apply.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 16: Review the summary of the entered details. Make changes, if required, to avoid problems at the time of registration. Click on ‘Accept & Continue’.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 17: Your ‘Mode of Payment’ will appear on the screen with the stamp duty and registration fees to be paid for property registration. Click on ‘Go’ to continue. Payment can be made online.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

Step 18: Once the payment is processed, an acknowledgement slip will appear on the screen with the reference number and date, time and place of presentation.

 

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kochi, Kerala

 

On the day of property registration, all parties should carry copies and originals of all property-related documents, identity proofs and address proofs.

Also read all about land tax online Kerala

 

How to pay stamp duty in Kerala offline?

Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala could be paid offline through 2 channels.

Licenced vendor: In this mode of stamp duty payment, the buyer has to purchase stamp paper of the required value from a licensed stamp vendor for his sale instrument.

Franking: Through franking, authorised banks in India stamp property purchase document or affix a denomination on it. This acts as a proof that the stamp duty for the transaction has been paid.

When to pay stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala?

Here’s an overview of when these payments should be made:

Payment timing:

  • Stamp duty: This tax must be paid before or at the time of executing the property document. The document is considered legally valid only if the appropriate stamp duty has been affixed. Delays in payment can lead to penalties, typically accruing at 2% per month, up to a maximum of 200% of the deficient amount. 
  • Registration charges: These are generally paid at the Sub-Registrar’s Office during the registration of the property document. Registration formalizes the transaction, making it part of the public record and providing legal ownership rights to the buyer.

 

Stamp duty refund in Kerala

If you cancel a sale deed in India, you might be able to get your stamp duty money back. Getting a refund isn’t too hard, but there are a few things you should know.

If you cancel the sale within six months, 10% of the amount will be deducted from the stamp duty refund.

Stamp duty refund process when a sale deed Is canceled

If you cancel a sale, the buyer can usually get back 98% of the stamp duty. To get a refund, you need to submit the original agreement and cancellation papers. You might also be able to get tax breaks on your home loan interest.

 

When should you claim a stamp duty refund?

You can ask for a refund if you cancel the sale within a month of registering the property. If you cancel after a month, you won’t get a refund.

 

Steps to follow to reclaim the stamp duty on cancellation

  • Submit a written request for a refund to the Deputy Commissioner within one month after your cancellation.
  • Include copies of all relevant documents. The Deputy Commissioner will review your claim and forward it to the State Government. They will determine the refund amount based on your previous spending and current government regulations.
  • Once you receive the government’s decision, you must sell the property within one month.
  • The refund will be deposited into your bank account within two weeks of the government’s payment.

When purchasing property in Kerala, there is an important update regarding the property registration process that buyers should be aware of. The Kerala Registration Department has recently amended the property registration rules, making it mandatory for both the buyer and seller to be present during the registration of the sale deed, as well as during any cancellation of the deed.

Under the amended Registration (Amendment) Rules (Kerala), 2021, a new clause (viii) has been added to Rule 30. This clause specifies that no document related to the cancellation or revocation of a sale deed or settlement deed will be accepted for registration unless it is executed by all parties involved in the transaction, including both the executants and the claimants.

Additionally, for transactions where the stamp duty exceeds ₹1 lakh, it is now required to purchase e-stamps from authorized vendors of the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL). Alternatively, buyers can also obtain e-stamps directly from the official portal of the Kerala Registration Department. This update ensures transparency and legal compliance in the property registration process.

 

Why stamp duty matters in property transactions

 Even though it’s sometimes seen as an unnecessary expense, stamp duty is essential to safe and efficient real estate transactions. This is a summary of its significance:

 

Enforceability and validity: Proof that the relevant tax has been paid is provided by a document that has been correctly stamped. As a result, the document is enforceable in court and has legal validity. Documents that are not stamped or are not stamped properly could not be accepted as evidence, which could put the transaction at risk.

 

Fraud deterrent: The imposition of stamp duty serves as a deterrent to the use of falsified or fraudulent documents. It is harder for fraudulent transactions to go undetected when there is a physical or electronic stamp acting as a verification mechanism.


Accountability and transparency: Stamp duty records the amount of the transaction. This openness guarantees more equitable competition in the real estate market and serves as a deterrent to tax evasion.


Market stability: Stamp duty may occasionally serve as a check on excessive speculation in the real estate sector. Frequent transactions with a cost component can promote a more stable and harmonious market environment.


Buyer protection: Properly stamped documents ultimately safeguard the buyer’s interests, even though they are typically paid for by the buyer. It guarantees an unambiguous and lawful transfer of ownership, reducing the possibility of unforeseen conflicts.

 

Generating revenue: For governments, stamp duty is a major source of revenue. In the end, society as a whole benefits from this revenue, which is utilized to finance a range of public services and infrastructure development initiatives.

 

Stamp duty on inherited property in Kerala

In India, there is no stamp duty or income tax levied on inherited property. The estate duty, which was a form of inheritance tax, was abolished in 1985. Consequently, when a property is inherited, the beneficiary is not required to pay any stamp duty or income tax on the inherited asset.

However, if the inherited property is subsequently sold, capital gains tax may apply based on the property’s valuation and the duration of ownership. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional or legal expert to understand the specific implications related to the sale of inherited property.

 

Factors considered for stamp duty calculation in Kerala

The stamp duty on land and property registration in Kerala depends on several factors, such as:

Location of the property: City area, rural area, metropolitan area, suburban, etc. Stamp duty is different for properties falling in the municipal limits of a city, when compared to the properties falling outside the limits. In the case of the former, charges are always higher.

Age of the owner: Discounts may be available for senior citizens.

Gender of the owner: Some states also offer concessions for female real estate owners. Kerala however, does not offer a concession on stamp duty for female owners.

Usage of property: Whether it is for commercial use or residential use. The stamp duty in case of commercial properties will always be higher than the stamp duty on residential buildings.

Type of property: Flat or an independent house, etc.

Project amenities: States like Kerala charge additional stamp duty, if the housing project in which the unit is located is offering high-end amenities such as elevators, swimming pools, clubhouses, gyms, community halls and sports areas.

Tax benefit on stamp duty in Kerala 

 Through Section 80C, nearly a dozen investment/expenditures, including payments made towards provident fund, public provident fund, life insurance policies, home loan principal, stamp duty-registration fee on property purchase, etc., have been made tax free. However, a taxpayer can only claim up to Rs 1.50 lakh in a year as deduction under Section 80C. However, the buyer must meet the following conditions to claim tax deduction on stamp duty payment in Kerala under Section 80C:

  • You must qualify as an individual owner, a co-owner of the property or a member of a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF).
  • The benefit must be claimed in the same fiscal year when you’ve incurred the stamp duty charges. Deductions cannot be claimed for stamp duty paid in prior years or not yet paid.
  • In the case of stamp duty for an under-construction property, deductions can be claimed upon possession of the property.
  • Stamp duty deductions are not applicable for commercial properties, plots of land or non-residential properties.
  • Deductions cannot be claimed for resale properties. The eligibility for this tax benefit requires a ‘fresh occupancy’ of the property.
  • The property should not be sold within its lock-in period, which spans five years. Selling the property before this duration results in the reversal of the tax benefit, and any deductions previously claimed become payable.

Kerala registration department contact information

Inspector-General, Department of Registration,

Vanchiyur PO, Thiruvananthapuram,

Kerala – 695035

Email: regig.ker@nic.in

Phone: 0471-2472118, 2472110

Key points to remember if you are going to register property in Kerala

  • Keep a checklist of necessary documents handy.
  • Make sure you have at least two sets of photocopies of all the documents.
  • Make sure you have done previous calculation of the stamp duty and registration fee you have to pay.
  • The revenue department allows payments through specific channels. Make sure all your cards are valid and activated at the time.
  • On the day of registry, you must visit the sub-register’s office on the appointed time along with the witnesses and seller. Each part must carry their identity and address proof, and the photocopies of these documents.
  • According to the law, one stamp duty is paid, the property transfer must conclude within six months of the transfer.

 

What is the validity of stamp paper in Kerala? 

As per the Kerala Stamp Act, the Kerala Stamp Paper is valid forever. One can return unused Kerala stamp paper to the collector and receive a refund within six months. The Kerala stamp paper can still be returned post this if the refund is not provided.

 

E-stamping in Kerala: process and error rectification

E-stamping is a modern method introduced by the government to make the payment of stamp duty more convenient and transparent. While the article briefly mentions e-stamping, it’s essential to provide detailed guidance on its process, how to rectify errors, and how to recover e-stamping charges if required.

How E-stamping works

E-stamping is done electronically through the official portal of the Kerala Registration Department or authorised vendors like the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL). The process involves:

  1. Visit the E-Stamping Portal: Go to the official Kerala Registration Department website or the SHCIL portal.
  2. Select Document Type: Choose the appropriate property transaction type, such as a sale deed, lease deed, or gift deed.
  3. Enter Transaction Details: Fill in the necessary transaction details like the property value, buyer and seller information, and the document type.
  4. Payment: Pay the stamp duty using available online payment methods.
  5. Obtain E-Stamp: After payment, an e-stamp certificate will be generated, which includes a unique serial number.

 

Rectifying errors in E-Stamping

Mistakes in the e-stamp certificate, such as incorrect details in the document or wrong transaction value, can be problematic. Here’s how to rectify them:

  1. Error Identification: Review the e-stamp certificate carefully after the payment. If there is a mistake, such as wrong buyer details, incorrect document type, or a mismatch in the property value, identify it immediately.
  2. Contact the Authorities: If the error is detected, you must approach the authorised e-stamp vendor or the Kerala Registration Department.
    • SHCIL Contact: SHCIL handles e-stamping issues and can be contacted for corrections or cancellations.
    • Kerala Registration Department Contact: Visit the official Kerala Registration Department portal and submit an error correction request along with the relevant documents.
  3. Submit Correct Information: In case of an error, submit the correct details and relevant documents for the amendment.
  4. Reissue E-Stamp: Once the correction is processed, a new e-stamp certificate will be issued with the correct details.

Recovering E-stamping charges

You may be eligible for a refund if you accidentally purchase an e-stamp for the wrong document or pay incorrect stamp duty.

  1. Refund Process:
    • Request Refund: Contact the e-stamp vendor (SHCIL or the Kerala Registration Department) to request a refund.
    • Submit Documents: Provide the necessary documents, including the original e-stamp certificate, transaction details, and reasons for the refund request.
  2. Refund Eligibility: Refunds are generally available only if the e-stamp has not been used for registration purposes. If the stamp has been used in the registration process, a refund may not be possible.
  3. Timeline: The refund process usually takes a few weeks, depending on the vendor and the issue’s complexity.

Tips for Avoiding E-Stamping Errors

  • Double-Check Details: Always verify the details you enter before paying.
  • Maintain Records: Keep a copy of the e-stamp certificate and the payment receipt for future reference.
  • Consult a Professional: If you need clarification on the e-stamping process, consulting a legal professional or the property registration office can help avoid mistakes.

By providing clear guidance on the e-stamping process and error rectification, home buyers and property sellers can navigate the digital process smoothly, reducing the chances of issues and ensuring accurate documentation.

 

Recent changes and updates on stamp duty in Kerala and property registration charges 

In recent years, Kerala has implemented several changes to stamp duty and property registration charges, impacting real estate transactions across the state.

Increase in fair value of land

Effective April 1, 2023, the Kerala government increased the fair value of land by 20% to bridge the gap between market value and fair value. This adjustment affects stamp duty and registration costs, potentially impacting property sales in the fiscal year 2023-24.

Stamp duty for flats and apartments

In the 2023 budget, the stamp duty for flats or apartments transferred within six months from the date of allotment of building number by local bodies was increased from 5% to 7%. This revision aimed to boost revenue from property transactions in the real estate sector.

Stamp duty on rent and lease agreements

As per the provisions of the Finance Bill passed along with the State budget, the stamp duty for registration of rent and lease agreements has been increased. For instance, the stamp duty for registering an 11-month rental agreement has risen from ₹200 to ₹500. This change makes the registration of such contracts mandatory, aiming to bring more rental agreements into the formal sector.

Current stamp duty and registration charges

As of 2025, the standard stamp duty rate in Kerala remains at 8% of the property value, with registration charges at 2%. These rates apply uniformly across different property types and ownership categories, including male, female, and joint ownership.

Implications for property buyers and sellers

These adjustments in stamp duty and registration charges have significant implications for both property buyers and sellers:

  • Increased transaction costs: Higher stamp duty rates and increased fair value of land lead to elevated transaction costs, which may affect the affordability and attractiveness of property investments in Kerala. 
  • Mandatory registration of rental agreements: The increased stamp duty on rental agreements and the mandate for their registration aim to formalize the rental market, ensuring legal protection for both landlords and tenants. 
  • Revenue generation for the state: These measures are expected to enhance the state’s revenue from property transactions, contributing to public finances.

 

Housing Viewpoint

Stamp duty is a fee homebuyers in India pay to the government at the time of property registration. Levied and controlled by the state government, this is a form of tax charged on property transactions. For calculation of stamp duty, the value of the property is calculated based on the prevalent circle rate/ready reckoner rate/guidance value/ collector rate in the area. Circle rate is the basic minimum value assigned to property by states.  No property in India can be registered below its circle rate value. Also, any efforts to evade stamp duty might get you in legal trouble, attracting fine and/or imprisonment

FAQs

What is the stamp duty in Kerala?

Stamp duty in Kerala is 8% of the transaction value.

What is registration fee on property registry in Kerala?

Registration fee on property registry in Kerala is 2% of the transaction value.

Is it mandatory to pay stamp duty and registration fee in Kerala?

Yes, it is mandatory to pay stamp duty on property registry in Kerala.

Can I register property online in Kerala?

You can complete a major part of property registration online. However, for final verification, you have to visit the sub-registrar office.

Do banks lend money to pay stamp duty?

No, banks don’t lend money to pay stamp duty.

How do I verify the authenticity of an e-Stamp in Kochi?

Visit the web portal www.keralaregistration.gov.in and click on the link ‘e-stamp verification’ on the homepage. Enter the e-Stamp serial number to verify the authenticity of the e-Stamp.

e-Stamp can be printed multiple times. How do you prevent its misuse?

All operations or services for an e-Stamp-based document should be conducted only after online verification of its authenticity and validity. Printing an e-Stamp multiple times will not affect the online status of its authenticity and validity.

What is land registration fees in Kerala?

The Kerala government collects 8% of the fair value as stamp duty and 2% as registration fee for land registry.

Can I pay stamp duty offline in Kerala?

Buyers have to make the stamp duty payment online in Kerala.

How is e-stamping done?

The Centre has appointed the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL) as the agency for e-stamps across the country. Buyers can visit the SHCIL portal to pay stamp duty on their property purchase.

 

 

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

 

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