When you buy a property in Karnataka, there are a few essential costs to keep in mind. Two of the main components are stamp duty in Karnataka and property registration charges. These fees are mandatory for legally transferring ownership, and knowing them beforehand helps you budget correctly and avoid surprises. This guide will walk you through the latest Karnataka stamp duty charges, how they are calculated, and the steps to pay them, so you can plan your property purchase with confidence.

What Is Stamp Duty in Karnataka?

Stamp duty in Karnataka is a state-mandated tax levied on property transactions. It serves as proof that the buyer has legally paid for the transfer of ownership and protects both the buyer and the seller in the eyes of the law. Paying the correct stamp duty on property in Karnataka ensures that your property documents are legally valid.

Karnataka Property Registration Charges

Karnataka property registration charges are fees paid to officially record the ownership of a property with the government. They ensure that the property is legally registered in your name, providing proof of ownership and protection in case of disputes. These charges are separate from the stamp duty charges in Karnataka and are an essential part of the property transfer process.

• Who Pays: The buyer is responsible for paying the land registration charges in Karnataka.
  
• Purpose: To create a legal record of property ownership.
  
• Includes: Administrative fees for processing and verifying documents.

Paying the Karnataka property registration charges correctly ensures that your property purchase is legally valid and recognised under state law.

Stamp Duty in Karnataka: Current Slab Rates 

The stamp duty in Karnataka depends on the property value. As of 2025, the Karnataka government has also updated the registration fee for property transfers. Cess and surcharge may also apply, depending on the property location and value.

Note: From August 2025, the Karnataka registry charges have been revised from 1% to 2% , following a government notification.

How to Calculate Stamp Duty & Registration Charges in Karnataka

Karnataka property registration charges are usually based on the higher of the market value or the consideration value of the property. Here’s how you can work it out:

• Determine the Property Value: Use the higher of the government-assessed market value or the price you are paying (consideration value).
  
• Apply the Karnataka Stamp Duty Charges: Multiply the property value by the relevant stamp duty percentage (2%, 3%, or 5% depending on the slab).
  
• Add Land Registration Charges in Karnataka: Include the registration fee, which is typically 2% of the property value.
  
• Include Cess or Surcharge: Check if any additional cess or surcharge applies for your property location or type.
  
• Calculate Total Payable: Add stamp duty, land registration charges in Karnataka, and any cess/surcharge to get the total amount payable.

You can also use the Kaveri Online Services portal to quickly calculate stamp duty in Karnataka for property registration, making the process easier and error-free.

Worked Examples: Stamp Duty in Karnataka + Registration Charges

Example Notes: The total includes stamp duty based on the slab and land registration charges in Karnataka. Use this method to estimate costs before finalising your purchase.

Differences Across Cities & Special Cases

Here are the main differences you should know:

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• Urban vs Rural Properties: Properties located in urban areas, such as Bengaluru, typically have higher guidance values (government-assessed property rates), which result in higher stamp duty charges in Karnataka compared to rural areas.
  
• Gift Deeds: Karnataka stamp duty charges for gift deeds may be lower or exempt when the transfer occurs between specified family members (such as parents and children or between spouses), subject to the prevailing government rules.
  
• Mortgage or Home Loan Properties: Stamp duty charges in Karnataka apply not only to the property sale but also to the mortgage or loan agreement.
  
• Concessions for Eligible Entities: Certain buyer categories may receive partial stamp duty rebates or reduced registration fees under state notifications.
  
• Special Cases: Transactions involving corporate transfers, inheritance, or agricultural land may follow different rules or exemptions based on their classification and use. Always verify the applicable rate with your Sub-Registrar’s Office or through the Kaveri Online Services portal before making payment.

Why Knowing Stamp Duty & Registration Charges Matters for Home Buyers

These fees form a significant part of the total cost of owning a home, and understanding stamp duty and registration charges in Karnataka helps you plan your budget more accurately. They also play a role in determining your overall home loan cost and repayment strategy. Most importantly, paying the correct Karnataka stamp duty charges and registration fees ensures that your property documents are legally valid, safeguarding your ownership rights and helping you avoid potential legal disputes in the future.

Conclusion

Stamp duty and land registration charges in Karnataka are essential parts of any property purchase. Calculating them beforehand and paying the correct fees ensures a smooth, legally valid transfer of ownership.
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