The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has launched the new "Property e-Stamping Service" which applies to tenancy agreement, agreement for sale and assignment. Property agents may use it to provide one-stop stamping service to their clients.

Upon completion of a tenancy transaction, the property agent can submit a stamping application for the tenancy agreement of his client, make payment and print the stamp certificate via the Internet and instantly return the agreement and stamp certificate to his client. He can also access the web page of the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) directly to submit an e-form in relation to the tenancy agreement on behalf of his client (e.g. Form CR109).

This "one stop" service is available 24 hours a day, quick and timesaving. The property agent need not visit IRD in person during office hours and queue for stamping. On the other hand, his client can save the time for visiting the property agent again to get back the stamped agreement and does not have to report the tenancy details to the RVD separately.

Holders of a valid digital certificate or IRD's E-Stamp Account or e-Tax Account can use this service. It accepts various online payment methods including PPS, credit card etc.

For details, please visit the ESDlife website http:// www.esd.gov.hk or telephone ESDlife Customer Service hotline 3151 2222.