Implementation of Title Registration System in Hong Kong

The forthcoming amendments to the Land Titles Ordinance will introduce a title registration system for newly granted land, aiming to eliminate the burdensome of retaining and checking historical title documents and streamline the conveyancing process.

Under the new system, registered owners will be recognized as the legal owners as the Title Register is conclusive evidence of the title to the property. Property transactions will be simplified, as verification can be conducted through the Title Register with reduced checking on title documents. Title will be established as a matter of fact by simply checking the Title Register.

This transition will improve efficiency, while the role of conveyancing lawyers will evolve rather than diminish. We will actively engage with these changes to navigate the new landscape and provide informed guidance to clients, particularly regarding the implications of the amended laws on adverse possession and potential title disputes.

We encourage all stakeholders to stay informed and prepared for these important developments, and to witness the new reform in Hong Kong whilst title registration system has been operating in many overseas jurisdictions such as UK, Malaysia and Australia with common law background.

For enquiries, please contact our Partner Mr. Mathew Liu and our Senior Associate Ms. Cindy Fong.