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Weather in Malta

18.3°C dust

dust

Time Zones:

New York

Malta

Shanghai

" Serving the world...

...from Malta "

Yacht Registration

Commercial Yachts

The Commercial Yacht Code  is drawn up for vessels which do not carry cargo and do not carry more than 12 passengers.   Legal Notice 38 of 2006  regulates the certification of Commercial Yachts and Commercial Cruising Vessels.  The following classes of vessels will be considered for registration under Malta flag: Yachts in commercial use of not less than 15 metres in length overall and not more than 24 metres in length (hereinafter referred to as “Class 1”); Yachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and less than 500 GT (hereinafter referred to as “Class 2”) ; Yachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and 500 GT and over but less than 3000GT (hereinafter referred to as “Class 3”) . 

Not less than 15 and not more than 24 metres (Class 1)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorized surveyor. 

3. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

4. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

5. Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 15 of the Code.

6. Documentary evidence confirming compliance (or voluntary verification) with the Maritime Labour Convention.

7. Settlement of registration fees.

8. Your specific instructions to register the vessel.

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again.

Upon provisional registration, the MSD (formerly MMA) should (besides the provisional certificate) issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 4 years with an annual endorsement by the ship’s Master or Engineer.

The present recognised and authorised Classification Societies by the Maltese authorities are listed below.  If the vessel’s classification is not among the ones listed below, then this should be changed upon registration.

- American Bureau of Shipping

- Bureau Veritas

- China Classification Society

- Class NK

- Det Norske Veritas

- Germanischer Lloyd

- Korean Register of Shipping

- Lloyd’s Register of Shipping

- Polish Register of Shipping

- Registro Italiano Navale

- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Tonnage Measurement Certificate of Survey (within six months) issued on behalf of the Malta Government.

5. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

 

For Commercial Vessels under 24m (class 1)

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

 €150

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

 €115

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

 €175

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request

 

Over 24 metres and less than 500 GT (Class 2)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorised surveyor.

3. A copy of the Load Line issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

4. A copy of the Safety Radio Certificate issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor for vessels of over 300 GT.

5. A copy of the IOPP issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor for vessels of over 400 GRT.

6. Vessels built after 14 February 2006 shall be built according to class specifications.

7. Documentary evidence confirming compliance (or voluntary verification) with the Maritime Labour Convention.

8. A copy of the International Tonnage Certificate.

9. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

10. An application for minimum safe manning certificate has to be submitted.

11. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

12. Anti-fouling system declaration if 400 GT or less.

13. Anti-fouling system certificate if over 400 GT but less than 500 GT.

14.Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 15 of the Code.  For vessels of 300GRT and over, in order to enable us to apply for a provisional radio licence, which is issued for a period of six months from the date of provisional registration, we require the AAIC and PSA Code numbers together with the GMDSS Sea Area of Trading (i.e. A1, A2, A3 and A4).

15. Settlement of registration fees.

16. Your specific instructions to register the vessel

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again.

Upon provisional registration of the vessel under the Malta flag the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) authorises the vessel’s classification society to issue the applicable statutory certificates on behalf of the Malta Government in order that the necessary surveys may be undertaken.  Furthermore, a non-operational provisional certificate is issued.  The operational provisional certificate should be released upon receipt of a confirmation from vessel’s classification society stating the validity of the applicable statutory certificates issued on behalf of the Malta Government (unless the confirmation received prior to registration would have been in order).

The MSD (formerly MMA) should also issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 5 years with an annual endorsement by a recognised classification society or Government surveyor.


Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Original Certificate of Survey (within six months).

5. International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Malta Government (within six months).

6. Confirmation from the vessel’s classification society  to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of the vessel’s Statutory Certificates issued on behalf of the Maltese Government, duly valid (upon their issuance).

7. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

 

For Class 2 Commercial Vessels

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

  €625

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table A

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

 

Fees payable on the anniversary of registration i.e. after the lapse of 12 months (to be paid on the anniversary of registration and each year thereafter): 

 Vessel Basic Annual Tax

  €1095

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

Table A - VSL-INITIAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €625
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.25 per ton

 

 

 

Table B - VSL-ANNUAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €1,000
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.40 per ton

 

 

TONNAGE TAX SHALL BE ROUNDED UP TO THE NEAREST WHOLE EURO

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request

 

Over 24 metres and less than 3000 GT (Class 3)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorized surveyor.

3. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

4. A confirmation from a recognised classification society confirming:

  • The vessel’s classification and type of vessel (i.e. Commercial Yacht);
  • The valid dates (if any) of the Statutory Certificates;
  • Any exemptions or recommendations on these certificates which were granted by the vessel’s previous flag.  If there are none, the classification society is to state so as well.

    Vessels built after 14 February 2006 shall be built according to class specifications.

5. A copy of the International Tonnage Certificate.

6. An application for minimum safe manning certificate has to be submitted.

7. ISM CODE:-   Document of Compliance and ISM Code Declaration

  • Document of Compliance

A copy of Document of Compliance is required.

  • ISM Code Declaration – SOLAS Chapter IX (ISM Code)

Kindly note that a declaration in accordance to section 1.1.2. of SOLAS Chapter IX, (ISM Code) is required to be filed at MSD (formerly known as MMA). Once stamped, this should be kept on board the vessel together with the other certificates. Therefore the enclosed application should be completed in order to make the necessary arrangements to file the said Declaration.

8. DMLC Application duly completed.

9. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

10. Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 16 of the Code.  In order to enable us to apply for a provisional radio licence, which is issued for a period of six months from the date of provisional registration, we require the AAIC and PSA Code numbers together with the GMDSS Sea Area of Trading (i.e. A1, A2, A3 and A4). 

11. Settlement of registration fees.

12. Your specific instructions to register the vessel.

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again

Upon provisional registration of the vessel under the Malta flag the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) authorises the vessel’s classification society to issue all certificates on behalf of the Malta Government in order that the necessary surveys may be undertaken.  Furthermore, a non-operational provisional certificate is issued and the following documents are required in order to proceed with the issuance and release of the operational provisional certificate: -

1. A copy of the statutory certificates issued on behalf of the Malta Government.

2. A copy of the interim Safety Management Certificate under the new name and on behalf of the Malta Government.

3. A copy of the International Ship Security Certificate.

4. A copy of the Maritime Labour Certificate.

The MSD (formerly MMA) should also issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 5 years with an annual endorsement by a recognised classification society.

CSR (applies to vessels of more than 500GRT)

Within 3 months from provisional registration under the Malta flag, please supply us with a copy of all the previous Continuous Synopsis Records (CSR) issued together with the CSR deletion from the previous flag, in order to enable MSD (formerly MMA) to proceed with the issuance of the new CSR issued on behalf of the Malta Government. Meanwhile attached please find the blank CSR forms (2 and 3), which are required to be completed and stamped by the master, and kept on board the vessel until the new CSR from MMA is issued.

The present recognised and authorised Classification Societies by the Maltese authorities are listed below.  If the vessel’s classification is not among the ones listed below, then this should be changed upon registration.

- American Bureau of Shipping

- Bureau Veritas

- China Classification Society

- Class NK

- Det Norske Veritas

- Germanischer Lloyd

- Korean Register of Shipping

- Lloyd’s Register of Shipping

- Polish Register of Shipping

- Registro Italiano Navale

- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

 

Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Original Certificate of Survey (within six months).

5. International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Malta Government (within six months).

6. Confirmation from the vessel’s classification society  to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of the vessel’s Statutory Certificates issued on behalf of the Maltese Government, duly valid (upon their issuance).

7. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

For Class 3 Commercial Vessels

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

  €625

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table A

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

 

Fees payable on the anniversary of registration i.e. after the lapse of 12 months (to be paid on the anniversary of registration and each year thereafter): 

 Vessel Basic Annual Tax

  €1095

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

Table A - VSL-INITIAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €625
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.25 per ton

 

 

 

Table B - VSL-ANNUAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €1,000
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.40 per ton

 

 

TONNAGE TAX SHALL BE ROUNDED UP TO THE NEAREST WHOLE EURO

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request

Yacht Registration

Commercial Yachts

The Commercial Yacht Code  is drawn up for vessels which do not carry cargo and do not carry more than 12 passengers.   Legal Notice 38 of 2006  regulates the certification of Commercial Yachts and Commercial Cruising Vessels.  The following classes of vessels will be considered for registration under Malta flag: Yachts in commercial use of not less than 15 metres in length overall and not more than 24 metres in length (hereinafter referred to as “Class 1”); Yachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and less than 500 GT (hereinafter referred to as “Class 2”) ; Yachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and 500 GT and over but less than 3000GT (hereinafter referred to as “Class 3”) . 

Not less than 15 and not more than 24 metres (Class 1)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorized surveyor. 

3. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

4. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

5. Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 15 of the Code.

6. Documentary evidence confirming compliance (or voluntary verification) with the Maritime Labour Convention.

7. Settlement of registration fees.

8. Your specific instructions to register the vessel.

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again.

Upon provisional registration, the MSD (formerly MMA) should (besides the provisional certificate) issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 4 years with an annual endorsement by the ship’s Master or Engineer.

The present recognised and authorised Classification Societies by the Maltese authorities are listed below.  If the vessel’s classification is not among the ones listed below, then this should be changed upon registration.

- American Bureau of Shipping

- Bureau Veritas

- China Classification Society

- Class NK

- Det Norske Veritas

- Germanischer Lloyd

- Korean Register of Shipping

- Lloyd’s Register of Shipping

- Polish Register of Shipping

- Registro Italiano Navale

- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Tonnage Measurement Certificate of Survey (within six months) issued on behalf of the Malta Government.

5. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

 

For Commercial Vessels under 24m (class 1)

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

 €150

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

 €115

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

 €175

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request

 

Over 24 metres and less than 500 GT (Class 2)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorised surveyor.

3. A copy of the Load Line issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor.

4. A copy of the Safety Radio Certificate issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor for vessels of over 300 GT.

5. A copy of the IOPP issued by either a recognised classification society or an approved Government Surveyor for vessels of over 400 GRT.

6. Vessels built after 14 February 2006 shall be built according to class specifications.

7. Documentary evidence confirming compliance (or voluntary verification) with the Maritime Labour Convention.

8. A copy of the International Tonnage Certificate.

9. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

10. An application for minimum safe manning certificate has to be submitted.

11. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

12. Anti-fouling system declaration if 400 GT or less.

13. Anti-fouling system certificate if over 400 GT but less than 500 GT.

14.Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 15 of the Code.  For vessels of 300GRT and over, in order to enable us to apply for a provisional radio licence, which is issued for a period of six months from the date of provisional registration, we require the AAIC and PSA Code numbers together with the GMDSS Sea Area of Trading (i.e. A1, A2, A3 and A4).

15. Settlement of registration fees.

16. Your specific instructions to register the vessel

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again.

Upon provisional registration of the vessel under the Malta flag the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) authorises the vessel’s classification society to issue the applicable statutory certificates on behalf of the Malta Government in order that the necessary surveys may be undertaken.  Furthermore, a non-operational provisional certificate is issued.  The operational provisional certificate should be released upon receipt of a confirmation from vessel’s classification society stating the validity of the applicable statutory certificates issued on behalf of the Malta Government (unless the confirmation received prior to registration would have been in order).

The MSD (formerly MMA) should also issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 5 years with an annual endorsement by a recognised classification society or Government surveyor.


Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Original Certificate of Survey (within six months).

5. International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Malta Government (within six months).

6. Confirmation from the vessel’s classification society  to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of the vessel’s Statutory Certificates issued on behalf of the Maltese Government, duly valid (upon their issuance).

7. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

 

For Class 2 Commercial Vessels

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

  €625

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table A

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

 

Fees payable on the anniversary of registration i.e. after the lapse of 12 months (to be paid on the anniversary of registration and each year thereafter): 

 Vessel Basic Annual Tax

  €1095

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

Table A - VSL-INITIAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €625
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.25 per ton

 

 

 

Table B - VSL-ANNUAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €1,000
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.40 per ton

 

 

TONNAGE TAX SHALL BE ROUNDED UP TO THE NEAREST WHOLE EURO

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request

 

Over 24 metres and less than 3000 GT (Class 3)

Provisional Registration:

1. Inspection Report issued by a recognised classification society.

2. Radio Inspection Report completed by an authorized surveyor.

3. Information on the yacht as per Application for Registry. 

It is advisable to apply for the reservation of the vessel’s name prior to registration.  The name may be reserved for a period of 3 months upon payment.  Your request in this regard would be required.

4. A confirmation from a recognised classification society confirming:

  • The vessel’s classification and type of vessel (i.e. Commercial Yacht);
  • The valid dates (if any) of the Statutory Certificates;
  • Any exemptions or recommendations on these certificates which were granted by the vessel’s previous flag.  If there are none, the classification society is to state so as well.

    Vessels built after 14 February 2006 shall be built according to class specifications.

5. A copy of the International Tonnage Certificate.

6. An application for minimum safe manning certificate has to be submitted.

7. ISM CODE:-   Document of Compliance and ISM Code Declaration

  • Document of Compliance

A copy of Document of Compliance is required.

  • ISM Code Declaration – SOLAS Chapter IX (ISM Code)

Kindly note that a declaration in accordance to section 1.1.2. of SOLAS Chapter IX, (ISM Code) is required to be filed at MSD (formerly known as MMA). Once stamped, this should be kept on board the vessel together with the other certificates. Therefore the enclosed application should be completed in order to make the necessary arrangements to file the said Declaration.

8. DMLC Application duly completed.

9. Please confirm if yacht is being sold free from encumbrances.

10. Vessel should carry sufficient transmitting and receiving radio equipment adequate for the area and range of operation in accordance with section 16 of the Code.  In order to enable us to apply for a provisional radio licence, which is issued for a period of six months from the date of provisional registration, we require the AAIC and PSA Code numbers together with the GMDSS Sea Area of Trading (i.e. A1, A2, A3 and A4). 

11. Settlement of registration fees.

12. Your specific instructions to register the vessel.

It is important to note that if registration of the vessel takes place prior to   delivery, then registration may be declared null and void.  In such situations and where mortgages are involved, bankers may request re-registration, thus incurring registration fees all over again

Upon provisional registration of the vessel under the Malta flag the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) authorises the vessel’s classification society to issue all certificates on behalf of the Malta Government in order that the necessary surveys may be undertaken.  Furthermore, a non-operational provisional certificate is issued and the following documents are required in order to proceed with the issuance and release of the operational provisional certificate: -

1. A copy of the statutory certificates issued on behalf of the Malta Government.

2. A copy of the interim Safety Management Certificate under the new name and on behalf of the Malta Government.

3. A copy of the International Ship Security Certificate.

4. A copy of the Maritime Labour Certificate.

The MSD (formerly MMA) should also issue a Certificate of Compliance for a period of 5 years with an annual endorsement by a recognised classification society.

CSR (applies to vessels of more than 500GRT)

Within 3 months from provisional registration under the Malta flag, please supply us with a copy of all the previous Continuous Synopsis Records (CSR) issued together with the CSR deletion from the previous flag, in order to enable MSD (formerly MMA) to proceed with the issuance of the new CSR issued on behalf of the Malta Government. Meanwhile attached please find the blank CSR forms (2 and 3), which are required to be completed and stamped by the master, and kept on board the vessel until the new CSR from MMA is issued.

The present recognised and authorised Classification Societies by the Maltese authorities are listed below.  If the vessel’s classification is not among the ones listed below, then this should be changed upon registration.

- American Bureau of Shipping

- Bureau Veritas

- China Classification Society

- Class NK

- Det Norske Veritas

- Germanischer Lloyd

- Korean Register of Shipping

- Lloyd’s Register of Shipping

- Polish Register of Shipping

- Registro Italiano Navale

- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

 

Permanent Registration:

The Provisional Certificate is valid for a period of six months with a possible maximum extension of another six months on delivery of items 1, 2 and 3 listed below.

The maintenance of registry and the subsequent permanent registration of the vessel is attained by submitting the following documents within the prescribed time allowed (from provisional registration date).

1. Original Deletion Certificate from last port of registry (within one month).

2. Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (within one month). For class 2 and 3 vessels,  if the International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Maltese Government (item 5 below) will note a change in the vessel’s NT from the copy submitted for provisional registration, then a new Ship’s Carving and Marking Note with correct NT is issued and required (within six months).

3. Original Bill of Sale (within one month - which has to be dated between the date of formation of the company and the date of vessel’s registration).

If the vessel is newly built and her first registry is Malta, then the Deletion Certificate (item 1) and Bill of Sale are replaced by a Builder’s Certificate made to the order of the Owning Company dated between the date of formation of the company or date of legal age of EU citizen, whichever is applicable, and the date of vessel’s registration (these are required within one month).

4. Original Certificate of Survey (within six months).

5. International Tonnage Certificate issued on behalf of the Malta Government (within six months).

6. Confirmation from the vessel’s classification society  to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of the vessel’s Statutory Certificates issued on behalf of the Maltese Government, duly valid (upon their issuance).

7. The return of the Provisional Certificate for the release of the Permanent one.  The procedure that is generally followed is for the managers to send an undertaking by fax direct to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) to return the Provisional Certificate within one month of the release of the permanent one; thus the ship will always hold a certificate on board.

Upon receipt of the above documents, we may apply for Permanent registration and a Certificate of Registry is issued to this effect.  This Certificate carries a date of expiry, which coincides, with the annual fees’ due date; thus renewal is attained by payment of annual fees provided all statutory certificates are valid.  Therefore it is important for the vessel’s classification society to update the Merchant Shipping Directorate (formerly Malta Maritime Authority) of any extensions, renewals or issuance of certificates at all times.

Income Tax on the owning company at the rate of 35% is liable on the net profits made.  However, tax exemption (on profits derived from the trading of the yacht) is usually granted to commercial vessels not trading in Malta.  Each case is treated on its own merits.

GOVERNMENT (MERCHANT SHIPPING DIRECTORATE (FORMERLY MALTA MARITIME AUTHORITY)) FEES

For Class 3 Commercial Vessels

Fees Payable upon Provisional Registration:

 Vessel Basic Registration Tax

  €625

 Vessel Initial Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table A

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

 

Fees payable on the anniversary of registration i.e. after the lapse of 12 months (to be paid on the anniversary of registration and each year thereafter): 

 Vessel Basic Annual Tax

  €1095

 Vessel Annual Tonnage Tax

  Refer to table B

 

 

 

Table A - VSL-INITIAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €625
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.25 per ton

 

 

 

Table B - VSL-ANNUAL TONNAGE TAX PER NRT

Vessels not exceeding 2500NRT  €1,000
For a ship of 2500NRT and over not exceeding 8000NRT  €0.40 per ton

 

 

TONNAGE TAX SHALL BE ROUNDED UP TO THE NEAREST WHOLE EURO

A pro-forma invoice is issued upon request