Legal

What a notary (PPAT) does, and what they do not

The PPAT is the only person who can execute a land deed, and the boundary of their job surprises people.

Updated 21 September 2026 · 1 min read

The independence point

The most common structural mistake in a Bali purchase is using the seller's notary because it is easier. The PPAT has professional obligations, but the person who engages them chooses what gets checked and how hard. Engage your own.

Common questions

Do I need a notary to buy property in Bali?

Yes. A land deed executed outside a PPAT is not registrable and does not transfer anything.

General information, not legal advice.