Land Registry & Tabu Updates in Israel for Non-Residents and Expats
Land Registry & Tabu updates matter if you own property in Israel but live abroad because your details in the Israeli Land Registry (the Tabu) may be out of date.
No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely.
Why Land Registry & Tabu Updates Are Needed: Outdated Details
For example, many former Israelis bought an apartment years ago. Others inherited a property from a relative and then built their lives overseas.
Over time, the identification details in the registry stop matching reality. An old Israeli ID number, an old passport number or a previous address are typical examples.
In other cases, the owner no longer holds an Israeli passport. Today, they carry only a foreign one, so proving identity becomes difficult.
Often, owners discover the problem only when they try to sell, rent out or refinance. A clerk, a bank or a buyer’s lawyer then points to a mismatch.
If you need to update a foreign passport in the Israeli land registry, our firm can help. The same applies if you are correcting land registry details from abroad.
Why Land Registry & Tabu Updates Matter
Fraud prevention: accurate details make it harder to impersonate an absent owner. Moreover, they link every transaction clearly to you.
Ability to sell or lease: a mismatch between your passport and the registry can delay a sale, a lease or a mortgage. This usually happens at the worst possible moment.
Receiving official mail: authorities and municipalities send notices to the address on record. Therefore, an outdated address can mean missed notices and deadlines.
Updating the record in advance is simpler and cheaper than fixing it mid-transaction. In addition, it is far less stressful.
No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely.
How Land Registry & Tabu Updates Work Remotely
Step 1 – Property search and Tabu extract: you send us the address, or the block and parcel details. Then we locate the property and obtain a current Tabu extract.
If you need a Tabu Israel property search in English, we review the extract with you. We explain in plain English who is registered and in what share. Also, we flag any liens, warnings or other notes.
Step 2 – Identifying the required correction: we compare the registered details with your current documents. Then we determine what must be updated, such as a passport number, a name spelling or an address.
Step 3 – Filing the application: we prepare the application to correct your identification details. After that, we submit it to the relevant Land Registry office with the supporting documents.
Step 4 – Signatures outside Israel: where a signature is required, we guide you through signing abroad.
Depending on the document, you may sign before an Israeli consul. Alternatively, the document can be notarized and apostilled in your country of residence.
To be clear, you do not need to fly to Israel. However, some documents may still need to be signed before a notary or consul near you. We will tell you exactly which ones and how.
Step 5 – Follow-up: we track the application and respond to any registry requests. Throughout, we keep you updated until the process is complete.
No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely, with consular signing or apostille only where the law requires it.
Why Work With an Israeli Real Estate Lawyer for Non-Residents
Land registry procedures in Israel are conducted in Hebrew. They rely on specific forms and require precise documentation. As a result, they are hard to manage alone from another time zone.
Our team works with clients abroad every day and communicates in English. Each step is explained in practical terms, so you always know what comes next.
Every case depends on its own facts and documents. Therefore, we cannot promise any particular outcome or timeline. Still, you will get an honest assessment from the start.
Related Services
If the property was left by a relative, see our page on Locating Heirs and Beneficiaries in Israel
Similarly, for old or abandoned family property, see Property Restitution and Recovery in Israel
Likewise, to check whether the state holds funds or assets for you, see Releasing Assets from the Administrator General (Custodian General)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to travel to Israel to update my details in the Tabu?
A: In most cases, no. We handle the process remotely. However, some documents may need to be signed before a notary or consul and apostilled in your country.
Q: Can I update my foreign passport details in the Israeli land registry?
A: Yes, in many cases. An owner can apply to update identification details, subject to the registry’s requirements. We review your situation first.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: The timeline depends on the registry’s workload, the complexity of the file and how quickly signed documents are returned. Therefore, we cannot promise a fixed period. We do give an estimate after reviewing the extract.
Q: Can I check what is registered on my property before hiring a lawyer?
A: We can obtain a current Tabu extract and explain it in English. This is usually the first step in any case.
Q: What documents will I need?
A: Typically a copy of your current passport and any documents showing your previous details. You also need proof of how you acquired the property. We confirm the exact list for your case.
Contact us today for an initial review of your property. No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely. Call: +972-3-7315665 or email us info@shoshan-law.com
