Ukrainians must update real estate data in the state register who does this apply to

The issue of property rights to real estate is one of the main guarantees of stability, security, and a sense of ownership status for every citizen of Ukraine. Historically, Ukraine’s real estate registration system has been complex and often contradictory. For decades, various paper registries, certificates, deeds, and local authority decisions existed. The situation began to change with the introduction of the modern State Register of Proprietary Rights to Immovable Property (SRPRIP) in 2013. However, millions of properties registered before this time remained legally “invisible” to the new digital system, substantially increasing risks and problems for owners.

Why was there a need for reregistration?

Under the old registration procedure, local Bureaus of Technical Inventory (BTI), governmental acts, court rulings, orders, and even handwritten certificates were valid. Information about such properties remained in archival books and systems not integrated into the state electronic register. In practice, this means: the state does not guarantee protection of your real estate rights in the event of a court dispute, fraud, or inheritance—if the property is not entered in the SRPRIP.

Since 2013, the principle has changed, and the only official confirmation of ownership rights has become information in the State Register—allowing any third party, bank, notary, or court to quickly check, dispute, or confirm property rights.

Is reregistration mandatory? What does the law say?

According to the latest clarifications from the Ministry of Justice and provisions of the Law of Ukraine “On State Registration of Proprietary Rights to Immovable Property and Their Encumbrances”, an owner has the right—but is not obliged—to register property acquired before 2013. This procedure is free and voluntary: the applicant decides whether to move their documents to the digital register.

However, if the owner plans to sell, gift, inherit, or use such property as collateral in a bank, the lack of registration in the SRPRIP will make these transactions impossible. The same applies to state compensation for destroyed housing: for payments, the state requires an electronic entry in the unified register.

The logic of reform: risks for owners

Old “paper” rights, even if granted legally, are entering a high-risk zone in 2025–2026:

• Fraud: Forged certificates, duplicate documents, attempts to register a property to another person—these are typical threats for real estate outside the new register.
• Blocked transactions: Without entry in the SRPRIP, a notary cannot certify the deal, and banks will not lend against such collateral.
• Courts and inheritance: Court cases are almost always decided in favor of the party whose rights are confirmed in the state electronic register.
• Loss of compensation: Martial law and mass destruction have heightened the relevance of confirmed property rights—only “digitalized” property can be compensated.

How the reregistration procedure works

1. Preparing the document package. Required: passport, tax code, original title document (certificate, sale agreement, deed, court decision), BTI extract (if available), land documents (if it’s a plot).
2. Applying to a notary or an Administrative Service Center (TSNAP). The owner chooses the entity; the notary/registrar works within the region of the property. For some regions, extraterritoriality applies.
3. Application and verification. The notary/registrar checks the papers (may conduct additional identification if necessary).
4. Entry into the SRPRIP. Data are entered into the electronic base, the owner receives an extract and (optionally) an updated technical passport for the property.
5. Terms and cost. The operation is free (no administrative fee charged), period—5-10 business days. In complex cases, processing may take longer.

Challenges and future issues

• War and remote archives: If documents are lost or destroyed, the process may require court or local BTI archival restoration.
• Inventory reform: Property owners without updated technical documents may need to carry out additional inventory or agree on consolidated changes.
• Digitalization: Since 2024, some procedures are available online via “Diia”, simplifying registration—especially for those with an electronic signature.
• Risk of invalidity: Leaving property with only “paper” documentation lowers rights status and exposes the owner to loss if documents go missing.

Legal and social dimension of the reform

The main message of recent years: without state registration even legally acquired property outside the SRPRIP can be disputed in any legal situation. For protection, smooth inheritance, receiving government help, attracting financing, or protection from fraud, digital reregistration is not just a trend but a real guarantee of private ownership.

The reforms reflect a global trend toward transparency and a “single data field”—in the EU, similar digital platforms (such as Poland’s electronic cadaster) are foundational for the real estate market.

Conclusion: act now

Reregistration of rights for documents dated before 2013 provides:

• Protection from raiding and forgery;
• Ability to use property in any modern transaction;
• Rights to government compensation and insurance;
• Straightforward inheritance transfer;
• Access to the state digital infrastructure.

In the context of reforms, martial law, and general digitalization, staying in the “paper zone” is dangerous. Moving your data to the SRPRIP is not just a requirement—it is the contemporary guarantee of your property rights and peace of mind for your family.

Svitlana Krutorogova, attorney, WINNER Law Firm.

If you have any additional questions or need expert advice on this topic, feel free to request a consultation! Our specialists will help you find the best solution for your situation, taking into account current legislative changes and practices. Leave a request or contact us in any way convenient for you, and receive professional support today.
Sincerely, WINNER company.