What is Stamp Paper?
Stamp paper is a government-issued paper used for legal documents in Pakistan. When you execute a rent agreement on stamp paper, you pay a stamp duty to the government, which gives the document greater legal recognition and enforceability in courts.
Is Stamp Paper Required?
Technically, a rent agreement on plain paper is still valid as a contract between two parties. However, stamp paper provides significant legal advantages:
- Greater admissibility as evidence in court
- Compliance with provincial stamp duty laws
- Stronger legal standing in case of disputes
- Perceived as more professional and serious
Stamp Paper Values by Province
Punjab
Under the Punjab Stamp Act, rent agreements typically require stamp paper worth PKR 50-100. For high-value commercial agreements, the value may be higher based on the annual rent.
Sindh
Sindh generally requires stamp paper of PKR 100-200 for standard rent agreements. The Sindh Stamp Act has specific provisions for different document types.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)
KPK stamp paper requirements are similar to Punjab, typically PKR 50-100 for standard agreements.
Balochistan
Balochistan has lower stamp duty requirements, typically PKR 50 for standard rent agreements.
Where to Buy Stamp Paper
- Stamp Vendors: Licensed vendors near courts and legal offices
- District Courts: Available at court premises
- Banks: Some banks sell stamp papers
- Online: E-stamp facilities available in some provinces (Punjab)
E-Stamps in Punjab
Punjab has introduced an e-stamp system through the Punjab Revenue Authority. This digital alternative is more secure and harder to counterfeit. You can purchase e-stamps from authorized banks and print them on regular paper.
Important Tips
- Always buy stamp paper from authorized vendors
- Check the stamp paper date — it should be close to the agreement date
- Verify the serial number of the stamp paper
- Keep the stamp paper receipt as proof of purchase
- Don't use someone else's name on the stamp paper