Information for Applicants
About the Applications Branch
The Applications Branch is responsible for guiding applicants through the process of joining the waitlist. This includes verifying Native Hawaiian blood quantum by reviewing and processing required documentation, such as birth certificates and genealogical records. The branch also handles updates to applications, such as changes of address and designation of successors.
New Applicants
To be eligible to apply for a Hawaiian Home Lands homestead lease, you must meet two requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years of age
- You must be at least 50% native Hawaiian, defined as “any descendant of not less than one-half part of the blood of the races inhabiting the Hawaiian Islands previous to 1778.” This requirement remains unchanged since the HHCA’s passage in 1921.
Once you are ready to apply for a homestead lease, you may call (808) 730-0279 or go to the DHHL Application’s Office in Kapolei or the DHHL District Office closest to you and ask for a homestead application packet.
WaitListers
Once your application is accepted by DHHL, you will be assigned a number on the waitlist, based on when your application was submitted. Your position may change due to various factors, such as applicants ahead of you being removed or awarded leases. The waitlist is updated as people are taken off the list, and sometimes, applicants who did not meet certain requirements may have their position adjusted.
You can check your position and the current waitlist at DHHL district offices, certain state libraries, or on the DHHL website.