Contents

How to Apply for Possession Certificate

Last updated: Type: Article

Disclaimer

The Sample Possession Certificate Application Form provided is only for illustrative and reference purposes and has been adapted from the Government site to help readers understand the general nature of information required.

Possession Certificate formats, procedures, authorities, fees, and timelines vary across States and Union Territories and are governed by the respective State Revenue Laws and administrative rules.

What is a Possession Certificate

A Possession Certificate is an official document issued by the local Revenue/Municipal authority certifying that a person is in lawful possession of a specific property on a given date.

In simple words: It proves who is actually occupying the property.

Why Possession Certificate is Required

Common uses include:

  • Bank loans and housing finance
  • Government schemes and subsidies
  • Electricity, water, or utility connections
  • Court proceedings and affidavits
  • Verification during land or property disputes

Who Issues a Possession Certificate

  • Tehsildar / Revenue Officer
  • Village Officer (rural areas)
  • Municipal Corporation (urban areas)
  • Authority notified by State Government

State-wise: No Uniform Format

There is no central or uniform format for a Possession Certificate.

Each State prescribes:

  • Its own application form
  • Authority and verification method
  • Fee and timeline

Online and Offline Mode (State-wise Overview)

State/UT Official Portal Online Offline Fee Time
Delhi https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in/ Yes Yes ₹20-₹50 7–15 days
Kerala https://akshaya.kerala.gov.in/services/16/possession-certificate Yes Yes ₹20 7 days
Tamil Nadu https://eservices.tn.gov.in/eservicesnew/home.html Yes Yes Nominal 7–15 days
Karnataka https://sevasindhuservices.karnataka.gov.in/ Yes Yes Nominal 7–15 days
Maharashtra https://bhulekh.mahabhumi.gov.in/ Limited Yes Nominal 15–30 days
Other State State e-District/Revenue Portals Yes Yes Varies 7–30 days

Online Procedure (General)

  • Visit the State e-District/Revenue services portal
  • Select Possession Certificate service
  • Fill out the application form
  • Upload property documents
  • Pay prescribed fee
  • Field verification by revenue staff
  • Download Possession Certificate

Offline Procedure (General)

  • Visit Tehsil/Village Office/Municipal Office
  • Obtain Possession Certificate application form
  • Attach property and identity documents
  • Submit Application
  • Local enquiry and verification
  • Certificate issued

Documents Commonly Required

  • Property document (sale deed/allotment letter)
  • Property tax receipt
  • Ration card/utility bill
  • Identity proof
  • Address proof
  • Affidavit

Document requirements vary by State and locality.

FAQs – Possession Certificate

1. Is a Possession Certificate proof of ownership?

No. It only proves possession.

2. Is it mandatory for property registration?

No, but often required for loans or utilities.

3. Can tenants obtain a Possession Certificate?

Usually no, unless rules permit.

4. Can it be challenged?

Yes, before revenue authorities or courts.

5. How long is it valid?

Typically valid as on the date of issue.

6. Is field verification compulsory?

Yes, in most cases.

7. Can it be issued for agricultural land?

Yes, commonly for rural land.

📁 Downloads & Resources

Access related documents and legal forms

Files

Attachment Size
Sample: Possession Certificate Application Form (48.44 KB) 48.44 KB

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