Stamp Duty Reimbursement Scheme

The Stamp Duty Reimbursement Scheme was introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa under the Goa Start-up Policy 2017. The policy was launched to make Goa one of the most preferred startup destinations in India by building a strong startup ecosystem and encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and human resource development. The scheme provides reimbursement of stamp duty paid by eligible startups when leasing or purchasing land or office space for their operations. The objective is to reduce the initial infrastructure cost for startups and enable them to establish their businesses in Goa more easily. This scheme came into effect from the notification of the Goa Start-up Policy and remains applicable as per the policy provisions.

Key Features
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
Documents Required
Application Process

Key Features

Stamp Duty Reimbursement for Infrastructure - The scheme reimburses the stamp duty paid by startups when leasing or purchasing land or office space for setting up their operations in Goa. This reduces the financial burden associated with acquiring workspace.
Applicable to Startups, Incubators and Accelerators - The benefit is extended not only to startups but also to incubators and accelerators supporting startup growth. This helps strengthen the overall startup ecosystem within the state.
One-Time Benefit - Each eligible startup can avail the reimbursement only once during its lifetime. This ensures that the scheme supports a larger number of startups entering the ecosystem.
Performance-Based Reimbursement for Incubators/Accelerators - For incubators or accelerators, the reimbursement is provided after a period of three years of successful operations. If the entity is a company, it must also demonstrate business activity and income generation.
Limited Annual Selection - Only 100 startups per year can receive benefits under this scheme. These startups are selected by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) based on eligibility and evaluation criteria.
Authority for Approval - The Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) is responsible for evaluating applications, approving claims, and making the final decision regarding reimbursement under the scheme.

Financial Assistance

Component	Assistance Provided	Detailed Explanation of Component & Assistance
Stamp Duty on Land Lease or Purchase	Reimbursement of stamp duty paid	Startups leasing or purchasing land or office space can receive reimbursement of the stamp duty paid to the authorities. Example: If a startup pays ₹2 lakh as stamp duty for leasing office space, the same amount can be reimbursed under the scheme.
Benefit Limit	Once during lifetime of startup	Each eligible startup can claim reimbursement only once under the scheme. Example: If a startup has already received reimbursement for leasing space, it cannot claim again for another property.
Annual Beneficiaries	Up to 100 startups per year	The scheme limits the number of beneficiaries to 100 startups annually. Startups are selected based on evaluation by the Startup Promotion Cell.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply under this scheme, the following conditions must be met:

The applicant must be a startup certified by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC).
The startup must have a valid startup certificate issued under the Goa Start-up Policy.
Incubators or accelerators enlisted with SPC are also eligible.
The bank accounts of directors must be linked to Aadhaar.
Only expenses incurred after notification of the Goa Start-up Policy 2017 are eligible.
Only digital payments are considered for reimbursement (cash payments are not eligible unless verified by SPC).

Documents Required

Copy of Transaction Deed
Original Proof of Payment
Copy of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

Application Process

Option 1: Apply with Bullit, Recommended

Start instantly with our guided application support, where our team verifies eligibility, prepares documentation, and coordinates with the Industries Department on your behalf. Using our business loans and compliance calendar, you can track progress while focusing on project execution, we manage the application end-to-end.

Option 2: Apply Online / Offline (Government Process)

Submit Application to SPC - Applicants must submit the stamp duty reimbursement application form along with required documents to the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) through email or the official web portal.
Evaluation by SPC - The Startup Promotion Cell reviews the application and supporting documents to verify eligibility and claim details.
Approval Decision - The SPC may approve or reject the application. The decision taken by the SPC is final and binding.
Sanction Timeline - If the application is approved, the sanction order is issued within 45 days from receipt of the application.
Disbursement of Amount - After approval, the reimbursement amount is disbursed within 60 days from the date of approval.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Stamp Duty Reimbursement Scheme under the Goa Start-up Policy?

The Stamp Duty Reimbursement Scheme provides financial support to startups by reimbursing stamp duty paid when leasing or purchasing land or office space for business operations in Goa.

Who administers this scheme?

The scheme is administered by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) under the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa.

Which entities are eligible for this scheme?

Eligible applicants include startups certified by the Startup Promotion Cell as well as incubators and accelerators that are enlisted with SPC under the Goa Start-up Policy.

How many startups can receive benefits under this scheme annually?

The scheme allows benefits for up to 100 startups per year, which are selected by the Startup Promotion Cell based on evaluation criteria.

Can the reimbursement be claimed more than once?

No. The stamp duty reimbursement benefit can be claimed only once during the lifetime of the startup.

Are cash payments eligible for reimbursement?

No. Only digital payments are generally eligible for reimbursement. Cash payments may be considered only if verified and accepted by the Startup Promotion Cell.