Purchasing property in Jersey is subject to legislation designed to regulate population, housing supply, and employment. Under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 (“CHW Law”), individuals must meet specific housing qualification requirements before they are legally permitted to buy residential property.
For anyone considering a purchase, understanding how registration cards, residential status, and property qualification operate is essential to avoiding delays or failed transactions. This guide explains the key requirements every buyer should be aware of before proceeding.
The CHW Law establishes a mandatory system of registration for all individuals who live or work in Jersey and regulates who may occupy, lease or purchase residential property. If a buyer does not hold the correct residential status, the transaction cannot lawfully proceed.
A purchaser’s ability to buy property depends entirely on their residential status, which is recorded on their official registration card.
Registration Cards
Registration cards are issued by the Government of Jersey and replaces the former Social Security card. They provide official confirmation of:
- An individual’s identity and Social Security number
- Residential status
- Employment status where relevant
A registration card is required when an individual:
- Moves to Jersey
- Changes address
- Commences new employment
- Buys or rents residential property
From a conveyancing perspective, a valid registration card is essential. A property transaction cannot progress unless the buyer’s registration card is current, accurate and reflects a residential status that is compatible with the property being purchased.
Every individual living in Jersey is assigned one of four residential status categories under the CHW Law. These categories directly determine whether, and what type of, residential property may be purchased.
Entitled
Individuals who have completed the required qualifying period of residence (typically 10 years) or qualify through other statutory routes. Entitled persons may buy, sell, or lease any residential property in Jersey without restriction.
Licensed
Commonly granted to essential employees recruited from outside the Island. Licensed individuals may buy property in their own name while their licensed status remains valid, subject to statutory conditions.
Entitled for Work
Granted to individuals with five years’ continuous residence or through qualifying family connections. Buying rights are limited and may require joint ownership with an Entitled or Licensed spouse or civil partner.
Registered
Individuals who do not meet the criteria for another category. Registered status does not normally permit the purchase of qualified property and significantly restricts housing options.
Most residential property in Jersey is classified as qualified, meaning it can only be purchased by individuals with Entitled or Licensed status. A limited number of properties fall within the registered category, which are subject to separate controls and are predominantly available for rent.
By way of exception, share transfer properties may be purchased by individuals without housing qualifications. However, the property may not be occupied as a place of residence by anyone who does not hold the appropriate residential status.
Identifying whether both the buyer and the property are compatible under the CHW Law is a critical legal step at the outset of any transaction.
Registration cards are issued by the Government of Jersey, with application requirements depending on residential status. Documentation may include:
- Valid photographic identification
- Evidence of residence history
- Supporting documentation evidencing entitlement or licensed status
Updating or correcting a registration card should be addressed promptly, as errors can delay or halt a property transaction.
Engaging legal advice at an early stage allows eligibility issues to be identified and resolved before contractual commitments are made.
Our property team can advise clients on:
- Registration card applications and amendments
- Residential status and housing qualifications
- Purchases of qualified and licensed property
- Compliance with the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012
If you are considering buying property in Jersey and have questions about your eligibility, we recommend seeking advice as early as possible.