How Long Does a Splinter Title Take to Process in Jamaica?

Question from Lloyd Castro:

"SPLINTER TITLE APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED TO THE TITLE OFFICE IN APRIL 2022. APPROXIMATELY HOW LONG DOES IT TAKES TO PROCESS FOR APPROVAL?"

Answer by Wellesley:

Lloyd, great question and quite relevant for many Jamaicans abroad trying to sort out land matters. A splinter title - essentially a new title created after subdividing or separating land ownership - usually takes about 6 to 18 months to process once all documents are properly submitted. But as you've shared, your application went in back in April 2022, so we’re now looking at over two years, which is definitely long.

Delays can happen due to missing documents, surveying errors, or even just a backlog at the Titles Office. I’d suggest that you or your representative reach out directly to the Titles Office of the National Land Agency for an update. You'll want to have the volume and folio or at least your reference number ready.

The Titles Office is located at 93 Hanover Street, Kingston, and their phone number is (876) 750-5263. You can also visit www.nla.gov.jm for more information.

It’s not uncommon for land title matters in Jamaica to take longer than expected, but consistent follow-up usually helps. All the best, and I hope you get some good news soon!

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📅 Last updated: June 11, 2025

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