The government has published the Registered Land (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which updates the Cayman Islands’ land registration and secured lending framework.
The legislation, gazetted on 5 February, focuses on improving clarity, transparency, and engagement in how secured loans over land are entered into and managed.
The bill amends the Registered Land Act (2018 Revision) to place particular emphasis on owner-occupied residential properties and the steps that apply before enforcement action is taken.
According to the ministry, the changes are intended to ensure that borrowers receive clearer information before entering into secured lending arrangements, and that lenders and borrowers engage earlier and more constructively where repayment challenges arise.
“These changes are about clarity and fairness,” stated lands minister Jay Ebanks said in a press release.
“They help ensure people understand what they are agreeing to, encourage earlier conversations when challenges arise, and set out clearer processes where action is required.
“This is about improving transparency while maintaining confidence in Cayman’s land and financial systems.”
Key features of the legislation
The proposed amendments introduce several new requirements for the lending and foreclosure process, and are as follows:
Pre-lending disclosure: Borrowers must receive clearer information on the terms and implications of secured loans before finalisation.
Pre-action engagement: Lenders will be required to explore resolution options with borrowers before pursuing enforcement proceedings.
Interest rate notices: The bill mandates clearer requirements for notifying borrowers when interest rates change.
Defined sale processes: In cases where enforcement is necessary, the bill sets out strict procedures for property sales, including the use of recognised multiple listing systems supported by independent valuations.
Procedural certainty
The legislation also updates provisions related to insurance, leasing and redemption rights.
By defining timelines and structuring pre-action documentation, the government aims to provide greater procedural certainty and consistency for all parties involved in land transactions.
The Registered Land (Amendment) Bill, 2026 will come into force on a date to be appointed by Cabinet.
Transitional provisions are included to ensure that existing loans and transactions currently in progress are not adversely affected by the new rules.
The ministry will continue to engage with stakeholders as the bill progresses through the legislative process. It can be read in full here.
