Tamil Nadu Mandates Online Anywhere Registration For First Sale Of Plots From August 17

The Tamil Nadu registration department will make its 'Anywhere registration facility' system mandatory for the first sale of plots and flats across the state starting August 17. Commercial Taxes and Registration Minister T Logesh Tamilselvan announced the decision following a review meeting with department officials at the integrated commercial taxes complex in Nandanam, Chennai, on Monday. The initiative aims to make property registration services more transparent and efficient while reducing overcrowding at sub-registrar offices.

Under the new system, builders and land developers can register documents digitally without physically visiting sub-registrar offices. Users will be able to create dedicated logins on the registration department's portal to submit their documents online at any time from any location.

To complete the online registration, applicants must upload the Aadhaar details of executants, claimants, and witnesses. They will also need to complete biometric authentication using fingerprint or iris scans, upload photographs, and make their payments online before submitting the documents digitally.

The system requires an internet connection, an Aadhaar-approved L0 or L1 fingerprint device with an iris scanner, and a webcam.

If a sub-registrar requires additional information, applicants can respond to the query online within 30 days. Once approved, the registered documents will be digitally signed by the concerned sub-registrar. These documents, along with fee receipts, will be issued on the same day or by the next working day, and will remain available for download for up to 60 days.

To facilitate this rollout, the state government amended Rules 32, 52, and 69 under the Registration Act, 1908, and framed new rules to grant legal validity to digitally registered documents. A dedicated help centre will also be established to assist users with the transition.

During the review meeting, Minister Tamilselvan stated that the online system is expected to reduce waiting times, distribute workloads more evenly among sub-registrar offices, and improve overall efficiency.

He also noted that the department has initiated measures to eliminate bribery and ensure transparent administration. He instructed officials to provide adequate seating for visitors, address public grievances promptly, and ensure registered documents are handed over on the same day. Additionally, the minister shared that the government has transferred 259 sub-registrars to fill vacancies and staff administrative posts since assuming office.