Punjab hikes stamp paper fees with effect from January 2026

The Punjab government has announced a substantial increase in stamp paper and e-stamp paper fees, effective from January 2026, a move that has triggered concern among citizens already burdened by rising inflation and living costs.

According to an official notification, the minimum fee for e-stamp papers has been raised from Rs100 to Rs300.

Stamp papers used for affidavits and routine documentation will now cost three times more than the previous rate.

The fee for divorce-related stamp papers has seen a sharp jump, rising from Rs100 to Rs1,000.

The cost of stamp papers required for domicile certificates—commonly used for school admissions, scholarships, and employment applications—has also been increased from Rs100 to Rs500.

Similarly, stamp papers needed to obtain new electricity, gas, and water connections will now cost Rs1,000, compared to the earlier Rs100.

Property-related documentation has been significantly affected by the revised rates.

The e-stamp paper fee for property sale agreements has been increased from Rs 1,200 to Rs 3,000.

For agreements valued up to Rs500,000, the fee has also been raised from Rs1,200 to Rs3,000.

For non-property agreements, the e-stamp paper fee has been enhanced from Rs 100 to Rs 500.

Agreements valued between Rs500,000 and Rs1 million will now require stamp papers costing Rs6,000, reflecting an additional Rs3,000 increase.

For high-value agreements exceeding Rs 15 million, the government has imposed an extra Rs 20,000 in stamp paper charges.

In addition, the e-stamp paper fee for powers of attorney has been revised upward from Rs 1,500 to Rs 1,800.

Separately, the government has made it mandatory for applicants to use a SIM card registered in their own name when applying for e-stamp papers, a step aimed at improving transparency and preventing misuse.

The sudden hike has drawn criticism from the public, with many citizens expressing frustration over the increased financial burden.

Critics argue that the higher fees will further strain households already struggling with soaring prices and everyday expenses, while legal and property transactions are expected to become more costly across the province.