Kinnistusregister

Kinnistusregister is the Estonian land register that records the ownership and other legal rights in immovable property across Estonia. It is operated by the Estonian Land Registration Office, a real‑estate authority under the Ministry of Finance. The register contains information on property ownership, mortgages, easements, rights of use, and other encumbrances, as well as the legal status of individual parcels. Each property is assigned a unique identification code and its boundaries are defined according to the official cadastral map. The system also integrates with the national geographic information system (GIS) to provide precise coordinates and spatial data.

The register was fundamentally restructured in 1993 following Estonia’s independence, replacing the Soviet-era property records. Since then, it has evolved into a fully digital platform. Property transactions, registrations of liens, and other changes can be submitted electronically, and most information is publicly accessible online. The register is updated continuously; new registrations and changes are recorded within a short period to ensure real‑time accuracy. The aim is to provide a transparent, reliable, and secure database that supports market activity, protects property rights, and enables efficient administration of land-related matters.

Use of the Kinnistusregister is mandatory for all property transfers and for establishing legal claims against real estate. The register also supports the national tax system by providing accurate data for property valuation and taxation. It is a key component of Estonia’s e‑government infrastructure, symbolising the country’s commitment to digital governance and rule of law in land administration.