Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Karnataka: How to Apply, Download & Status Check

By Mayashree Acharya

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Updated on: Mar 27th, 2025

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3 min read

When you deal in real estate in Karnataka, the Encumbrance Certificate (EC) is an essential document. It plays a vital role in the property transaction process since it ensures that the property is free from any financial liabilities or legal disputes.

This article covers every important aspect of the Encumbrance Certificate Karnataka, from what it is, its types, and how to apply.

Karnataka Encumbrance Certificate (EC)

An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka is a vital legal document that certifies whether a property is free from any legal or financial liabilities, such as mortgages or liens. This certificate is crucial for property transactions, as it assures potential buyers and lenders of the property’s clear title. 

The Encumbrance Certificate Karnataka is issued by the Sub-Registrar’s office in whose area the property is located. It details all registered transactions related to the property and is essential for loan approvals and legal validations. 

Types of Encumbrance Certificates in Karnataka

When you are filing an Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka, it is important to understand which form you should apply for. There are two forms available depending on the status of your property:

Form 15

Form 15 is issued when there are encumbrances on the property and provides information about any existing liabilities, such as loans or legal claims associated. Form 15 is important for potential buyers and financial institutions to evaluate any risks related to your property. This EC form is applied when there are recorded transactions or encumbrances during the specified period for which the EC is required.

Form 16

Form 16 certificate is issued when a property is free from any encumbrances. It certifies that there are no outstanding legal dues, loans, or claims associated with your property. EC Form 16 is issued when there have been no encumbrances during the specified period in the application. It assures both buyers and lenders regarding the clear title of a property.

How to Apply for an Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka?

You can apply for apply for Encumbrance Certificate Karnataka both online or offline:

Online Application Process

Step 1: Go to the official Kaveri Online Services website and click on ‘Register’. 

Step 2: Register on the website by entering the required details. You will receive the password on your registered mobile number or email.

Step 3: Log in to the Kaveri website by entering your User name and password.

Step 4: Choose ‘Encumbrance Certificate’ from the menu.

Step 5: Enter relevant property information such as survey number, sub-district, and village name, along with the required period for the EC.

Step 6: Apply by paying through available online methods and save the reference number for tracking purposes.

Offline Application Process

Step 1: Go to your nearest Sub-Registrar office and request Form 22 for the EC application.

Step 2: Fill out the form with accurate property details, attach a Rs. 2 non-judicial stamp, and include necessary documents.

Step 3: Submit the completed form along with all required documents at the designated counter in the Sub-Registrar office and pay the applicable fees based on the duration of encumbrance requested.

Step 4: After submission of the application, collect the acknowledgement receipt for reference.

Step 5: You can collect the EC Karnataka by visiting the office within 15-30 working days.

Processing Time for Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka

The Encumbrance Certificate Karnataka processing time varies based on the application method. For online applications, the processing time is approximately 2-3 working days. In contrast, offline applications may take longer, around 7-10 working days. It may take additional time if any further checks are required from the authorities.

How to Check Encumbrance Certificate Status in Karnataka? 

Follow these steps to track the status of your Encumbrance Certificate online:

Step 1: Log in to the Kaveri Online Services website using your credentials. 

Step 2: After logging in, go to the ‘Service Type’ options and select ‘Online EC Application’. 

Step 3: You can view the status of the Encumbrance Certificate. 

How to Download Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka?

Here are the steps to download Encumbrance Certificate Karnataka:

Step 1: Log in to the Kaveri Online Services website using your credentials. 

Step 2: Go to the ‘View Document’ section. You can search for your EC by entering your reference number or using property details.

Step 3: Once the EC is ready, you can download the signed copy of the Encumbrance Certificate. The document will typically be available in PDF format. 

Fees for EC Certificate in Karnataka

The Encumbrance Certificate fees in Karnataka are as follows:

Particulars

Fees

Application FeeRs. 10
Search Fee for the First YearRs. 30
Search Fee for Every Additional YearRs. 10

Non-Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka

A Non-Encumbrance Certificate (NEC) in Karnataka is a legal document that certifies a property is free from any legal or financial liabilities, such as loans, mortgages, or litigations. This certificate isessentialt for buyers and sellers during property transactions. 

Financial institutions may ask for this document while applying for secured loans against the property. The NEC assures parties involved that the property has a clear title and minimises the risk of unexpected encumbrances.

The certificate is issued after a thorough search of property records for a specified period which usually ranges from 12 to 30 years, depending on your requirement. Only if no encumbrances are found during this search, you will get your NEC.

If you are looking for a property transaction or want to get a loan against your property, the Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka is an essential document. It provides the details of whether a property has encumbrances or is free from encumbrances. It assures the buyers of the seller’s ownership.

Similar Articles:
1. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) AP
2. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Tamil Nadu
3. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Kerala

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka?

An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka is a vital legal document certifying whether a property is free from legal or financial liabilities. It serves as proof for potential buyers and lenders that the property title is clear and assures that no encumbrances, such as mortgages or liens, exist on the property.

How to apply for an Encumbrance Certificate online in Karnataka?

You need to visit the Kaveri Online Services website to apply for an Encumbrance Certificate online in Karnataka. Log in with your credentials or register as a new user. Select ‘Online EC’ from the services menu, enter the required property details, and complete the payment. After processing, you can download the EC.

How can I download the Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka?

You need to log in to the Kaveri Online Services website to download the Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka. After logging in, check for the approved EC application and select the download option to save your EC as a PDF file on your device for official use.

How long will it take to get an Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka?

The processing time for obtaining an Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka applied online ranges from 2-3 days, while offline requests may take 7-10 days and may go up to 30 working days, depending on the Sub-Registrar’s office.

What is the validity of the Encumbrance Certificate in Karnataka?

In Karnataka, the Encumbrance Certificate (EC) is generally valid for 15 years from the issue date. This indicates that all transactions or encumbrances made in that period are covered under the certificate. A fresh EC must be obtained for properties older than 15 years to show the up-to-date status.

What documents are required for EC in Karnataka?

To apply for an Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Karnataka, you need to submit a filled EC application form, address proof of the property, copies of previous property deeds (such as sale or partition deeds), details of the property, and your Aadhaar card.

About the Author

I am an advocate by profession and have a keen interest in writing. I write articles in various categories, from legal, business, personal finance, and investments to government schemes. I put words in a simplified manner and write easy-to-understand articles. Read more

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