Stamp duty and registration fee are paid when you register a sale deed. They are a big part of the cost of buying, so it is wise to plan for them early.
What is guidance value?
Guidance value is the minimum value per square foot or per site that the Government of Karnataka sets for each area. If you buy at a price lower than the guidance value, you still pay duty on the guidance value. The government revises these values from time to time and has sometimes offered temporary reductions in the past. Do not rely on old news; always check the latest position.
Rates for sale deeds in Bengaluru (at the time of writing)
| Property value | Stamp duty | Cess and surcharge | Registration fee | Total approx. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Up to ₹20 lakh | 2% | about 12% of the duty | 2% | 4.24% |
| ₹20 lakh to ₹45 lakh | 3% | about 12% of the duty | 2% | 5.36% |
| Above ₹45 lakh | 5% | about 12% of the duty | 2% | 7.6% |
The registration fee was raised from 1% to 2% from the end of August 2025. Rural areas can have a slightly different surcharge.
Worked examples
- ₹30 lakh flat: duty ₹90,000 + cess and surcharge about ₹10,800 + registration ₹60,000 = about ₹1.61 lakh
- ₹60 lakh flat: duty ₹3,00,000 + cess and surcharge about ₹36,000 + registration ₹1,20,000 = about ₹4.56 lakh
Add the 1% TDS (for deals of ₹50 lakh and above). That is deducted from the price you pay the seller and is not an extra cost. See TDS on property purchase.
Other documents
Gift deeds, partition deeds, lease deeds, mortgage deeds and powers of attorney have their own duty rates under the Karnataka Stamp Act. See our note on power of attorney.
How to check the latest amount
- Use the Kaveri online services portal of the Karnataka Registration and Stamps Department.
- Enter the property type, location and price in the stamp duty calculator.
- Pay online and keep the receipt for registration day.
Tips
- Do not under-value your deed. It can lead to penalty, and a deficit duty can be demanded later.
- Women buyers get no separate duty concession in Karnataka at present.
- Confirm the rates again just before you register, as they can change.
Frequently asked questions
Is stamp duty cheaper for under-construction flats?
The rate is the same. Different charges can apply for a builder’s agreement of sale and for the final sale deed.
Can I pay stamp duty in cash?
No. It is paid online or through authorised banks, and e-stamping.
Where do I find the guidance value for my area?
On the Kaveri portal under the guidance value search for your zone, village or locality.
Was the old 10% reduction in guidance value still available?
That reduction was temporary and ended in 2022. Do not rely on it.
Tell us briefly what has happened and we will guide you on the next step. Hemanth & Associates, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru.
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Last reviewed: October 2026. This article is for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an advocate-client relationship. Laws, fees and procedures change, and every case depends on its own facts, so please consult a qualified advocate before acting. In line with Bar Council of India rules, this page is not an advertisement or solicitation.
