A title search for a Canada-based buyer covers at least thirty years of ownership history, encumbrances, revenue records, approvals, RERA status and pending litigation. We inspect the records in India and send a written report by email, so you know the risks before transferring any money. Nothing has to be signed or apostilled for the search itself; you only share copies of the documents you have.
- Document route
- Notary or lawyer, then apostille from Global Affairs Canada or the provincial authority
- Time difference
- IST is 9h30 (Ontario, summer) to 13h30 (British Columbia, winter) ahead
- Search period
- At least 30 years
- Key record
- Encumbrance certificate
Title Search & Due Diligence from Canada: how it works
You email the seller's title deeds, approved plans and identity documents. Our team visits the sub-registrar and revenue offices, takes certified copies, and checks court portals and the builder's RERA filings. In Punjab and Haryana, we also check the jamabandi and khasra numbers and whether the land falls within approved urban development limits. For apartments, we look at the occupancy certificate, the society's approvals and whether the builder has mortgaged the project.
The report explains the chain of title in plain language and lists specific defects with suggested cures, such as obtaining a release deed from a co-owner or rectifying a revenue entry. If you proceed, we build protective clauses into the agreement to sell, tying payments to the seller fixing those points. Payment should flow from your NRE or NRO account or by remittance from Canada, which keeps the purchase eligible for later repatriation.
What clients in Canada should know
- Unauthorised colonies around many Indian cities are sold to overseas buyers at attractive prices; a title search shows whether the layout is approved.
- If you finance the purchase through an Indian bank, its legal report protects the bank, not you; get your own as well.
- Keep the title report; it simplifies a future sale and helps if a dispute arises while you are in Canada.
Step by step from Canada
Video consultation
A call at a time that suits Canada, after we have read your documents.
Documents signed in Canada
Notary or lawyer, then apostille from Global Affairs Canada or the provincial authority
Work in India
Our team files, appears and follows up in India, and shares scans of everything filed.
Result and handover
Certified copies and originals are couriered to you in Canada where needed.
The full guide
This page covers what changes when you are in Canada. For the law, the documents and the step-by-step procedure, read our main page on Title Search & Due Diligence, or see all services for clients in Canada and the NRI Property Law practice area.
Questions from clients in Canada
Can you verify property anywhere in India?
Yes. We work through our own team and trusted local advocates where the property is outside our usual area.
How long does the report take?
Usually two to three weeks, depending on how old the records are and the office involved.
Do I need to sign anything in Canada?
Not for the search. Signing is needed only once you decide to buy.