Stamp duty and registration charges in Kerala

Short answer: for a typical sale deed in Kerala you pay about 10% of the property value: stamp duty of 8% and a registration fee of 2%. Both are calculated on whichever is higher, the government fair value of the land or the actual sale price.

How the value is decided - The Registration Department publishes fair values for land by survey number. Check it on the department's website or ask the Sub-Registrar office. - If your agreed price is higher than fair value, duty is on your price. If it is lower, duty is on fair value.

Worked example A 10-cent plot sold for ₹40 lakh, where fair value is ₹3 lakh per cent (₹30 lakh): duty applies to ₹40 lakh. Stamp duty = ₹3.2 lakh; registration fee = ₹80,000; total ≈ ₹4 lakh.

Use the stamp duty calculator for your own numbers.

Steps 1. Get the deed drafted by a licensed document writer or advocate. 2. Buy e-stamp paper (e-stamping applies to higher values) and pay fees online through PEARL. 3. Book a token and appear before the Sub-Registrar with ID proofs and witnesses. 4. After registration, apply for mutation (pokkuvaravu) so land tax moves into your name.

Before paying, check the property documents.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Procedures and fees change; confirm current rules with the Registration Department, your Village Office and an independent advocate before you pay any advance.