Land Registration Legal Framework
The Land Registration Act of Malta (Chapter 296 of the Laws of Malta) governs the system for registering ownership, interests or claims in immovable property. Its main purpose is to provide a secure and transparent record of land ownership, helping to reduce disputes and simplify property transactions.
Why Register Your Land?
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- Ensure that ownership is legally recognized, securely recorded and protected
- Registration provides a clear public record of who owns the property and any rights or obligations attached to it (such as mortgages or servitudes)
- Simplifies future transactions
When To Register Your Property
A property should be registered in the following instances:
When property falls within a Land Registration Area
When the Land Registrar deems proper
When change in ownership or any rights or obligations attached to it (such as mortgages or servitudes)
How To Register Your Land
See the step-by-step process for the registration of your property.
1. Provide Proof of Ownership to a Notary
Provide your Notary with the legal documents that prove how you acquired the property.
2. Obtain an Official Site Plan Marked by an Architect
Obtain a blank site plan from the Land Registry online portal and have your Architect mark the property boundaries and rights as per S.L.296.08
3. Notary Creates the Necessary Applications
The Notary will select the appropriate Form required for submittal to the LRA and draft it based on your requirements.
4. Notary Submits the Application
Once all documents are prepared and signed, the Notary submits the application along with all the necessary documents to the LRA.
5. Vetting and Approval of Application
The applications are vetted at the Receiving, Technical and Legal Office. The Technical Office plots the property on the digital map. The Legal Office reviews the application for legal compliance and approves it.
6. Issuance of Certificate of Title
Once title is approved, the Notary can order a copy of the certificate of title from the LRA.
Legal Framework
Explore the legislation that governs all your property registration needs.
Guidance Documents
See checklists for everything required for main applications and make sure you’ve got everything in hand for a smooth experience.
FAQs
- For an informal check: Email a screenshot from Google Maps with the property clearly marked, along with its address, to enquirieslandregistry@gov.mt. We will assist you with an unofficial reply.
- For an official search: You must submit a “Form E” along with an official site plan that has been marked and signed by an architect (Perit). This service costs €30.
