malta yacht registration

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  Malta Flag Yacht Registration

SHIPPING & YACHTING SERVICES

Backed by our expertise, high level of service, our dedication as well as our contacts within the super yacht industry in Malta, CSB Group is uniquely able to offer an integrated service for our clients’ yachting requirements. As a one-stop shop, CSB Group is one of the Malta-based specialists in yacht services with the necessary expertise to handle a variety of services including the registration under the Malta Flag. Under the Malta Flag a yacht may be registered as a Private yacht or a Commercial yacht.

Yachting in Malta

Malta has, for years, been a maritime nation of repute. Its strategic location in the centre of the Mediterranean, natural harbours and extensive range of maritime services such as shipbuilding and repair, Freeport, bunkering, ship supplies and towage services have contributed to making Malta a leading maritime hub. The island’s location has given it great strategic importance and Malta is now recognised as being an entree-port to the EU.

Besides offering world-class berthing facilities to the superyacht industry, Malta offers yacht owners several attractive solutions. As a one-stop-shop, CSB Group, via their dedicated team can provide the required professional and dedicated assistance on temporary importation, onward supply relief, commercial yacht registration and VAT-efficient finance leasing structures to name a few.

Notably, there are two main types of yacht registrations under Maltese Law; one may either register their yacht as a pleasure yacht wherein the yacht could be used for personal reasons or for charters within Maltese territorial waters, or else one may alternatively register their yacht as a commercial yacht wherein the yacht could be used for commercial reasons including the option of sailing and chartering outside Malta’s territorial waters.

As of the end of December 2020, there were a total of 4630 yachts under the length of 24m registered under the Merchant Shipping Act. The number of Superyachts over 24m in length flying the Malta flag has increased from the previous year by 6.6% to a total of 859 Superyachts. Malta continues to maintain its position as a leader in ship and boat registration, as the largest register in Europe, as well as the 6th largest register in the world in terms of gross tonnage.

The benefits of registering a yacht under the Malta flag

• Competitive yacht registration costs;
• Low company formation and registration costs;
• Attractive tax incentives to yachts and superyachts owners encouraging commercial operation;
• No restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew, serving on Maltese vessels;
• No restrictions on the nationality of shareholders and directors of Maltese shipping companies;
• No restrictions on the sale and mortgaging of Maltese registered yachts;
• No trading restrictions
• Straightforward Registration Process;
• Serious and efficient maritime administration;
• Flag state inspectorate to ensure adherence to international standards;
• A sovereign state, member of the European Union with political, fiscal and social stability;
• A dynamic registration with one of the largest ship registers in the world and very active in EU for and international organisation such as the IMO;
• Easy access to decision-makers within the competent authorities, backed by a qualified and efficient team of technical officers available for urgent matters on a 24-hour basis.

Malta Yacht Registration Process

The CSB Group team of advisors provides full support throughout the whole process required to register a yacht in Malta.

1. Submission of Documents

The CSB Group team will assist you from start to finish to successfully obtain a permanent registration certificate smoothly and efficiently. As your advisors, we would act as an intermediary between yourself and Transport Malta to draft certain documents and submit all the documents required to complete the two-step registration process, consisting first in obtaining a Provisional Certificate of Malta Registry, valid for six (6) months, and subsequently a Permanent Certificate of Malta Registry. 

2. Provisional Registration

After the necessary initial documentation is provided to Transport Malta, if the application for registration of a yacht under the Maltese flag is to the satisfaction of the authority, a Provisional Certificate of Malta Registry will be issued against payment of the relative fee, which shall be valid for a period of six months (subject to further renewal). The same Authority will immediately communicate to the indicated classification society requesting inspection with a view to the issue of the relative documentation (if required).

3. Permanent Registration

Once provisionally registered, for permanent registration to be obtained, we would assist in submitting any additional original documentation required by the Transport Malta during the term within which the yacht holds the provisional registration certificate. 

In the event that the vessel has not been permanently registered after a year, registration must commence anew and the appropriate forms re-submitted and fees paid anew. Additional specific requirements may be imposed by the Transport Malta. Once obtained, the Permanent Certificate of Malta Registry is renewable on an annual basis from the date of initial registration at a fee, which we can also assist with as owner representative and/or resident agents.

Ancillary Yacht Services

Yacht financing.

Through a healthy working relationship with an independent and licensed European yacht leasing company, CSB Group is able to offer support in relation to obtaining a financial or operating lease for the purpose of completing the financing of yachts.

Tax Structuring & Administration

Structuring of tax efficient yacht owning framework.

Co-ordination of Temporary Importation Procedure

This procedure enables yacht owners, who are non-EU residents and whose yachts do not fly a Maltese flag, to stay within the EU and move freely within EU territorial waters for a period of 18 months. 

During these 18 months, the yacht can move freely with no further customs formalities and should the boat be laid up for any period of time it is also possible to disregard such laid up period for the purpose of reckoning the 18-month period. After such period however, the yacht would need to be exported out of the EU. In such a procedure, customs duties or VAT are not paid on the value of the yacht. 

Notably, should you opt to avail of this procedure, the Customs Authority in Malta will require the provision of a security or guarantee to cover the payment of the customs duties and VAT which would become due if the yacht does not leave EU territory.

Change in Registration Type with the Malta Flag

We can also assist in changing from the type of registration the yacht has been registered under the Malta Flag. Notably, changing from a commercial registration to a pleasure one would be a smoother transaction since there are less criteria to be satisfied for a yacht to be registered for private use. On the other hand, we may assist with change a pleasure registration to a commercial one, provided that the yacht is of 15 metres in length or more but not more than 3000 gross tonnes, does not carry cargo, carries not more than 12 passengers and is operated by the owner or body corporate owning the yacht for commercial use. In this regard, the Malta Commercial Yacht Registration considers the following classes of yachts

• Yachts in commercial use of not less than 15 metres in length and not more than 24 metres;
• Superyachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and less than 500 gross tonnes; and
• Superyachts in commercial use of more than 24 metres in length and 500 gross tonnes and over but less than 3000 gross tonnes. 

Upon satisfaction of the above criteria, we will assist in the sorting out of all necessary elements for obtaining the commercial yacht certification, once the Commercial Certificate of Survey and the International Tonnage Certificate have been duly issued by the surveyor. This includes liaison with the registration and technical departments at Transport Malta in order to progress with the issuance of the Commercial Certificate of Registry. Simultaneously, we will also assist in liaison with the radio licencing department at Transport Malta to enquire whether anything would need updating considering the change in registration.

Yacht Certification

Sorting out of all necessary elements for commercial yacht certification.

Documentation Reviews

Evaluation of various documentation, including amongst others loan and security agreements, sale and purchase agreements, and mortgages..

Statutory Mortgage Deeds Procedures

Registration, amendments, transfer & discharge of contracts registered over Malta registered yachts.

Enforcement of Claims

Against Malta registered yachts or within Maltese territorial waters.

Crewing & Compliance Regulations

Handling on-going formalities with the relevant Maltese authorities. Importantly, commercial superyachts (more than 24 meters long) require a Minimum Safe Manning Certificate while commercial yachts (less than 24 meters long) are not required to obtain said certificate, but must adhere to the manning requirements found in the Commercial Yacht Code. Furthermore, foreign certificates in respect of the STCW 78 Convention need an endorsement from the local administration. 

On another note, the crewing of Maltese yachts is extremely flexible as it does not impose restrictions on the nationality of the crew (including master and officers). 

Deletion from Registry

When the owner of a Maltese registered ship or yacht wishes to effect a transfer to a foreign registry, an application to this effect would need to be sent to Transport Malta, accompanied by a number of documents as requested by the authority, which application we can assist with from start to finish to ensure a smooth process in the attainment of a Deletion Certificate from the Malta Registry.

Naturally, if you have any questions or clarifications please do not hesitate to contact us on  [email protected]  and should you seek to engage us to assist you with the above, we would be able to guide and advise you further with a step-by-step procedure on what would be required in terms of due diligence, fees and the overall process.

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OUR SERVICES

Shipping & Yachting Services

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Malta Flag Ship Registration

Incorporation of a shipping company, international ship owner bareboat charters, ongoing shipping support, registration of mortgages on malta flagged vessels, temporary importation and onward supply relief, yacht vat leasing in malta, registering a small ship under the maltese flag, yacht charters in malta, family office services, testimonial.

"We have used CSB Group's Yachting Services in Malta and we would like to highlight the team's professionalism and reliability throughout the registration process of our vessel. We were very pleased and very appreciative of the great availability of the staff to help us and answer our questions."

Stephanie Butikofer

Tikiaora Inc Limited of Tikiaora

This is to express my absolute satisfaction in my dealings with Sacha Farrugia in the process of opening my company over the last few weeks. I was really blown away with their level of professionalism and customer service. They went above and beyond to ensure that all of my questions and curiosities were met and understood, and their level of knowledge was excellent. I would have no problem recommending your company to others in the future and will continue to use your services myself.

Phoenix Classic Charters Limited

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CSB Group is authorised by the MFSA to register vessels under the  Maltese flag  in terms of the Company Service Providers Act, 2013. Get support from our specialised professionals.

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Yacht Registration in Malta

Yacht registration in Malta is a very straightforward process . Yacht owners who choose to register their vessels in Malta will avail themselves from numerous benefits that come along with the Malta flag. All the vessels’ operations shall be covered by the laws of the Flag State. Malta caters for yacht registration of various types of vessels, depending on their intended use, such as private pleasure yachts, commercial yachts or passenger yachts .

Building on its long and varied maritime tradition, Malta, a member of the European Union, has today established itself as one of the leading maritime hubs and service centres in the Mediterranean region . Placed to become an international centre of excellence in the maritime industry, the island offers a whole range of international maritime services and facilities as part of a comprehensive package for the maritime industry.

Why register your yacht in Malta?

Whether the vessel is a Pleasure or a Commercial vessel, the yacht registration process in Malta is easy and simple. With a Maltese Flag, the Yacht owner can avail to a list of advantages , inter alia:

• Low   company formation and registration cost.
• Complete tax exemptions , and benefits for owners, charters, and financiers of Maltese yachts.
• No restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew, serving on Maltese vessels.
• No restrictions on the nationality of shareholders and directors of Maltese shipping companies.
• No restrictions on the sale and mortgaging of Maltese yachts.
• No trading restrictions.
• Preferential treatment for Maltese yachts in certain ports.
• Serious and efficient maritime administration .
• Flag state inspectorate to ensure adherence to international standards.
• Easy access to decision-makers within the competent authorities, backed by a qualified and efficient team of technical officers available for urgent matters on a 24- hour basis.
• Sound multilateral and bilateral relations .
• Active participation in international shipping fora.

Procedure for Yacht Registration in Malta

When vessels are owned by international owners, they can be registered in two ways:

• By appointing a Maltese registered agent , in case if International Owner is an EU citizen or foreign company; or
• By incorporating a Maltese company and registering the vessel in its name, in case if International Owner is a non-EU citizen.

Firstly, a vessel is registered in Malta provisionally . Upon issuance of the provisional certificate of registration, which is valid for 6 months period, the yacht owner has to provide the remaining required for the registration documentation. Once all the necessary documents are presented to the authority, the owner of the vessel is issued with the permanent certificate of Malta registry.

A permanent certificate of Malta Registry is subject to annual renewal on the anniversary of 1st registration.

Appointment of resident agent in Malta

The duties of a resident agent include but not limited to:

• Applying on behalf of the international yacht owner, for the registration of a ship.
• Liaising between the international yacht owner and the Maltese government departments and authorities.
• Signing and filing all declarations and forms as required with the Maltese government departments and authorities on behalf of the international yacht owner.
• Paying all the relative fees and taxes payable in terms of Maltese law.
• Arranging for authentication of documents issued by the international owner.

Incorporation of a Shipping Company in Malta

It is also possible to incorporate a company under the Merchant Shipping (Shipping Organisations – Private Companies) Regulations . A Company shall qualify as a Shipping Company if its main purpose concerns the ownership, operation (under charter or otherwise), administration, and management of a ship registered under the Maltese flag or of a ship registered under the flag of any other state.

A Shipping Company incorporated in Malta also benefits from Malta’s favorable ‘Tonnage Tax’ regime whereby the company shall pay a ‘tonnage tax’ instead of income tax on its profits.

In order to get an overview of the company incorporation procedure in Malta visit our Malta Company Formation page .

Bareboat Charter Registration

A bareboat charter refers to the lease of a vessel for a stipulated period of time, by virtue of which the charterer shall acquire full control and complete possession of the ship, including the right to appoint her master and crew for the duration of the charter.

During the stipulated period of the lease, the charterer may register the vessel in the bareboat charter registry under the name of the charterer and under the Malta Flag.

Bareboat charters registered in Malta will enjoy the same rights and privileges and have the same obligations, as any other vessel registered in Malta.

In order for the bareboat charter to be registered, the charterer must be a person qualified to own a vessel in Malta.

Yacht VAT – cost-efficient solutions for different types of yachts

You may opt for the Maltese VAT-Efficient Finance Leasing Structure.

In case your yacht is registered under a non-EU flag and you are a non-EU resident, it may be more suitable for you to opt for a Temporary Yacht Importation instead.

You may benefit from various tax incentives  when registering your Commercial yacht  under Malta flag.

How can we help?

SMM Group provides 360-degree support throughout the process of yacht registration in Malta, whilst allowing any Yacht owner to obtain a Maltese flag hassle-free  and by providing  all supported legal services  through and forth.

Get in touch with us to register your private or commercial yacht under the Maltese flag. Fill in our contact form or reach our experts directly on   +356 2123 7167   or via email at   [email protected].

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• Published on 26/05/2021
• An Expert-Article from Dr. Kelly Meli

Yacht Registration Malta 

Throughout the years, Malta has developed a working regulatory platform which enabled it to become one of the most prestigious homeports in the world.

Its location, having English as its second language , as well as the numerous advantages offered to shipowners under the Maltese flag, have likewise contributed towards making it the attractive hub for yachts which it is today.

2 types of yacht registration under Maltese Law

Under the Maltese flag, a yacht may be registered, either as a private yacht  or as a  commercial yacht .

The Merchant Shipping Directorate in Malta considers the registration of yachts having 6 meters in length or more, which do not carry passengers for reward, and which do not engage in trade but are solely used for its enjoyment by the owner, as registered for private purposes.

On the other hand, yachts having 15 meters in length or more, which do not carry cargo, which carry 12 passengers or less, and which are operated by the owner or body corporate owning the yacht, are considered as yachts registered for commercial purposes by the Merchant Shipping Directorate in Malta.

Advantages of registering a yacht under the Maltese Flag

For many years, the Maltese flag has been regarded as a  flag of confidence,  and this, in view of the several advantages which it offers to stakeholders, some of which include:

• vessels may be registered in the name legally constituted corporate bodies, irrespective of their nationality; or by European Union Citizens;
• affordable maritime administration;
• efficient registration process;
• low company formation costs;
• no trading restrictions and preferential treatment to Maltese ships in certain ports;
• reduction in registration and tonnage tax costs for younger ships;
• no restrictions on the sale or transfer of shares of a company owning Maltese ships;
• VAT incentives for Companies interested in chartering their vessels;
• no restrictions on the nationality of members and employees onboard the vessel;
• competitive registration and annual fees;
• low tonnage costs;

The applicable legislation in Malta

The registration of all types of yachts is mainly regulated by the Merchant Shipping Act, together with its subsidiary legislation.

The above-mentioned laws provide several provisions which regulate:

• Registration fees;
• Procedure for registration;
• Transfer and Transmissions;
• Forfeiture of Ships;
• Conditions for admission to employment of masters and seamen;
• Safety of life at sea;

amongst others.

Malta is also a signatory to several conventions, regulations, and directives issued by the  International Labour Organization, International Maritime Organization , and the United Nations and consequently, these have all been adopted into and now form part of the Maltese legal framework.

Who may apply for yacht registration in Malta? 

All types of yachts may be registered under the Maltese flag, provided that,  inter alia  they are wholly owned by:

• Foreign entities enjoying legal personality; and
• European Union Citizens.

Whilst there are no age or trading restrictions, it should be noted that:

• vessels of 10 years or over, but of under 15 years, shall have an inspection carried out to them, by an authorised flag state inspector either  before or within 1 month  of their provisional registration in Malta;
• vessels of 15 years and above, shall be required to pass an inspection by an authorised flag state inspector,  prior  to being provisionally registered.

Appointment of resident agent in Malta

One of the requirements which may need to be adhered to successfully register a yacht under the Maltese flag is the appointment of resident agent – this is where we can help!

Non-resident owners, that is European Union citizens, Swiss citizens or residents of the European Economic Area who are not resident in Malta; and/or foreign entities enjoying legal personality, must appoint a  resident agent  in Malta.

The role is to act as the  local representative  of the international owner of the vessel registered under the Maltese flag.

The appointed Resident Agent shall have the power to:

• act as a channel of communication between the international owner and Maltese government departments and authorities;
• sign and file on behalf of the international owner, any forms and/or documents as may be required by the Maltese Government departments and authorities;
• act as a judicial representative of the international owner;

amongst several other duties and responsibilities as set provided in terms of law.

Procedure for registration of a yacht under the Maltese Flag 

The procedure for the registration of a vessel under the Maltese flag is divided into two (2) stages:

• Stage 1:  Provisional Registration ; and
• Stage 2:  Permanent Registration.

Malta Provisional Yacht Registration 

The first step towards successfully registering a vessel under the Maltese flag is to provisionally register the vessel for a period of six (6) months. The applicant would need to ensure that:

• all the documents necessary for the provisional registration are duly submitted to Transport Malta;
• the proposed name of the vessel is reserved with Transport Malta;
• proof of ownership is at hand;
• where necessary, a resident agent is appointed;
• a declaration of ownership is signed before the Registrar;
• an application for Ship Radio License is duly submitted (where necessary);
• the payment of the official registration fees and annual tonnage tax is affected;

amongst other requirements, which may become applicable on a case-by-case basis.

Once the above-mentioned requirements (and any other applicable ones) are met, the vessel will be provisionally registered under the Malta flag for a period of 6 months, which period shall be extendable for a further period, or periods not exceeding in the aggregate 6 months.

A Provisional Certificate of Malta Registry will be issued to the owner of the vessel, which certificate, shall at all times be retained by the owner of the vessel, onboard of the vessel.

During the period of Provisional Registration, the owner may sail the vessel , on condition that some other steps are undertaken by the said owner, ahead of the Permanent Registration of the vessel under the Maltese flag.

Permanent Yacht Registration in Malta

Before the expiry of the provisional certificate, as issued by the Malta Registry, the owner of a vessel that has been provisionally registered under the Maltese flag, must ensure to provide the Merchant Shipping Directorate, with a number of documents, including:

• the original builder’s certificate, if the vessel has not been registered elsewhere;
• a survey of the vessel, which survey shall be completed by a ship surveyor appointed by Transport Malta;
• the ship’s carving and marking note duly signed by a government survey or a recognized classification society;
• a radio inspection (where necessary).

This will be the last step towards permanently registering the yacht under the Maltese flag .

Once all the necessary documents are validly submitted, a Permanent Certificate of Registration will be issued by Transport Malta for a period of 1 year.

The said Permanent Certificate of Registration would need to be renewed on an annual basis, and the applicable annual renewal fees would need to be settled before a valid renewal certificate may be issued by the Merchant Shipping Directorate.

For more information please visit Our Services page

Disclaimer: The above-mentioned article is simply based on independent research carried out by Dr. Werner and Partner and cannot constitute any form of legal advice. If you would like to meet up with any of our representatives to seek further information, please contact us for an appointment.      

Do you have a question for the author? Get in touch directly.

Dr. Kelly Meli

Author of this post

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Malta Yacht Registration

Introduction.

Malta is one of the most popular EU ports of registry for yachts.

Oceanskies (Malta) Limited is a Malta based yacht documentation agency that is responsible for a significant percentage of yacht registrations in Malta and the purpose of this guide to highlight the many advantages of the register and to introduce the Maltese yacht registration services that we provide.

About Malta

The Republic of Malta is situated in the centre of the Mediterranean, south of Sicily, east of Tunisia and north of Libya.

Malta gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1964 and became a republic in 1974. In 2004 Malta joined the European Union.

Malta has a centuries old Maritime tradition and is well regarded as a leading international maritime service centre.

History of the Malta Register of Ships

The modern day Malta Register of Ships was established in 1973 as an open international register of shipping.

The regulator of the Malta Flag, the Malta Maritime Authority, was set up In 1991 the Malta Maritime Authority was established as the regulator and administrator of the Malta Register of Ships.

In 2010, the Malta Maritime Authority was incorporated into Transport Malta (TM) which is a governmental body responsible for maritime, land and air transport in Malta.

Port of Registry

The sole port of registry under the Malta flag is Valletta. This means that the word VALLETTA appears on the stern of all Malta registered vessels.

The Flag (‘Ensign’)

The Malta merchant ensign was adopted on the 12th November 1965. The design of the ensign was based on the flag flown by the Knights of the Order of St. John in Malta up to 1798 to which a white border has been added.

The Certificate of Malta Registry

Upon completion of registration formalities a Malta registered yacht is issued with a Certificate of Malta Registry valid for one year from the date of issue.

Eligibility – Yachts

Malta will accept private pleasure yachts of any size and commercial yachts over 15 metres in length that are based and operated anywhere in the world.

Eligibility – Owners

Malta is an international register meaning that the register is not just restricted to Malta registered companies or Maltese citizens; in fact the following citizens and companies may register a yacht in Malta in their own name:

• Any European citizen 
• A company or other body incorporated in any jurisdiction

A European citizen or a non-Malta company registering their yacht in Malta is known as an international owner.

An international owner must appoint a local resident agent in Malta to act as a channel of communication between the international owner and the registry in respect of all matters relating to the upkeep of their yacht’s registration and to act as the owner’s judicial representative in Malta. 

Oceanskies provides this service on behalf of international yacht owners through Oceanskies (Malta) Limited.

Summary of Features & Benefits of Yacht Registration in Malta

• Malta is a neutral, politically stable and well-regarded jurisdiction
• Government funded, operated, backed and staffed ship registry
• Neutral port of registry marked on the vessel, with ‘Valletta’, holding the reputation of a quality register that is familiar to port and customs authorities around the world
• High service levels driven by a customer first service ethos resulting in quick turnaround of applications
• No priority or rush fees – all applications are dealt with on a timely basis
• Wealth of experience – many yachts current on the register
• European time zone
• Malta registration is valid internationally and documentation issued in English so widely understood.
• Malta registered yachts do not have to ever physically visit Malta
• Ability to obtain a provisional registration to cover vessel for navigation immediately after purchase
• The Malta Register of Ships provides proof of title and enables the owner to register a mortgage on the vessel
• Yachts can be coded and operated as commercial charter yachts on the register
• Entitlement to register includes all EU citizens which can avoid the need for company formation for the majority of potential clients
• Malta has no nationality restrictions for crew giving yacht owners flexibility in whom they employ as crew onboard their vessel
• No minimum manning policy for private yachts 

Malta Yacht Registration By Oceanskies

Oceanskies (Malta) Limited provides a fixed fee yacht registration service to all yacht owners wishing to take advantage of the benefits of Malta registration for their yacht.

The registration service results in Oceanskies taking responsibility for the entire registration process on behalf of the owner.

Our fees include all registry fees and disbursements to provide the internationally recognised Certificate of Malta Registry valid for ten years and, if applicable, a radio licence for the vessel.

Example Pricing

Our fixed fee yacht registration package for the Malta  registration of any  private yacht under 24 metres in length overall and under 50GT lying within the EU costs EUR 3,000.00 in year one and then EUR 1,500.00 per annum in second and subsequent years and includes:

• Provisional Certificate of Malta Registry valid for six months
• Full permanent Certificate of Malta  Registry
• Provision of Malta resident agent
• Tonnage Survey Onboard vessel lying in EU
• All registry fees
• Radio licence allocating call sign & MMSI number

Crew Employment & Payroll for Malta Registered Yachts

Through Oceanskies Crew Limited we are able to provide crew payroll outsourcing services from for crew working onboard Malta registered vessels.

This service is a very popular ‘bolt on’ service for our clients as it simplifies the employment of the crew of their Malta registered yacht.

The yacht owner engages Oceanskies Crew Limited to employ and pay the crew of their vessel through a crew services agreement. As employers, Oceanskies Crew Limited issues the crew with contracts in line with the Marine Labour Convention guidelines, pays them, issues payslips, sea service testimonials etc.

Oceanskies Crew Limited can also handle Malta social security contributions.

For further information please refer to the crew employment and payroll section of our website at the following link:

• Oceanskies Crew

Other Malta Yacht Registration Services by Oceanskies

Oceanskies are able to provide a range of stand alone fixed fee additional registration services including:

• Obtain provisional Malta registration valid for six months;
• Provision of Malta resident agent enabling foreign owners access to the register;
• Registration of new owner details in event of vessel transferring to a new owner qualified to maintain the Malta registration of the vessel;
• Drafting of sale documents such as a Bill of Sale in the Malta format and any supporting documentation required by the Buyer of the vessel;
• Transfers of vessel registration to Malta from other registries, (and vice versa);
• Performance of tonnage surveys and issue of Certificates of Survey for Malta registration;
• Effect change of vessel name;
• Make amendments to registered particulars of vessel;
• Manufacture and supply of tonnage plates displaying official number for Carving & Marking purposes;
• Registration / discharge of marine mortgages;
• Arrange deletion / cancellation of Malta registration to provide a Closed Transcript of Registry (Deletion Certificate); and
• Obtain Current Transcripts of Registry to provide at the time of issue a ‘snapshot’ of the register confirming: – Vessel dimensions and particulars such as the builder, length, breadth, tonnage, year of build and engine details; – Details of the current registered owner; and – Details of any mortgages or encumbrances such as a bank loan registered against the vessel.

Please do not hesitate to contact for a free no obligation proposal for any of our Malta yacht registration services or any general yacht registration query that you might have.

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Oceanskies Limited Castle Emplacement St. Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 1AU Channel Islands, Great Britain

Malta Office

Oceanskies (Malta) Limited Premiere Business Centre, Suite 1, Level 2 Constitution Street Mosta MST 1750 Malta

Oceanskies Limited is registered in Guernsey (company number 56102) | Registered Office: Castle Emplacement, St.Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 1AU, Channel Islands, Great Britain

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Due to unforeseen circumstances, orders placed between 13th August and 22nd August may be delayed by a few days to be delivered.

Malta Yacht Registration

Malta flag registration for yacht and superyacht, 1. the advantages of registration of  a yacht and a superyacht under the malta maritime flag, vat on malta yacht leasing, 2. maltese shipping organisations.

• The ownership, operation (e.g. under charter), administration and management of a registered Maltese ship, or a ship registered under the flag of another state, and all ancillary financial, security and commercial activities; and/or
• The holding of shares or other equity interests in entities, whether Maltese or otherwise, established for any of the purposes stated herein, and the carrying on of all ancillary financial, security and commercial activities; and/or
• The raising of capital through loans, the issue of guarantees or the issue of securities by the company when the purpose of such activity is to achieve the objects stated herein for the shipping organisation itself or for other shipping organizations within the same group; and/or
• for the carrying on of such other activities within the maritime sector which the Minister may, on the advice of the Authority for Transport in Malta, from time to time prescribe by regulations as qualifying for the above purpose.
• A shipping organisation which is registered and licensed under Maltese law and owns a tonnage tax ship enjoys fiscal advantages and benefits in relation to its shipping activities namely:
• No tax shall be charged or payable on income where said income is derived from shipping activities of the organization;
• No tax shall be charged or payable on any income, profits or gains of a licensed shipping organisation derived from the sale or other transfer of a tonnage tax ship or from the disposal of any rights to acquire a ship which when delivered or completed would qualify as a tonnage tax ship;
• No tax charged or payable on any gain arising on the liquidation, redemption, cancellation or any disposal of shares, securities or any other interest, including goodwill, held in any licensed shipping organisation owning, operating, administering or managing a tonnage tax ship while she was a tonnage tax ship;
• No stamp duty shall be charged on the registration of a tonnage tax ship under the Merchant Shipping Act and other registrations relating to a tonnage tax ship;
• No stamp duty shall be charged on the issue or allotment of any security or interest of a licensed shipping organisation or the purchase, transfer, assignment or negotiation of any security or interest of any licensed shipping organisation;
• No stamp duty shall be charged on the sale or other transfer of a tonnage tax ship or any share thereof;
• No stamp duty shall be charged on the registration of any mortgage or other charge over or in relation to any tonnage tax ship or licensed shipping organisation, any transfer or discharge thereof, any receipt relative thereto, and any assignments granted in connection therewith; and
• No stamp duty shall be charged on the assignment of any rights and interests, or the assumption of obligations in respect of any tonnage tax ship or share thereof.

3.  International Owner

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Yachting Registration

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Malta’s long maritime tradition and culture has led to the country becoming a well-established and reputable ship register.

Dedicated legislation, all in line with EU Directives and IMO (International Maritime Organisation) Conventions, has made the Maltese register the sixth-largest maritime register in the world and the largest merchant flag in the European Union.

Malta offers a distinctive and complete range of maritime services and facilities, including one of the busiest Freeport areas in the Mediterranean, major oil bunkering facilities, and a modern cruise passenger terminal.

Malta is also on the White List of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding. All this further consolidates Malta’s historic maritime tradition and enhances Malta’s position as an international ship register.

The Regulator in Malta

The Ports & Yachting Directorate has a regulatory role in monitoring the maritime activities within Malta's internal and territorial waters, as well as managing port facilities under Transport Malta's control, including yachting and mooring facilities.  The Directorate ensures that port users and service providers comply with legislation and contractual obligations and promotes the efficient use of port and maritime facilities. It also ensures that Malta achieves the right balance in using our waters for leisure and commercial operations.

Tax opportunities in Malta

• Variety of tax incentives available for ship and yacht registration in Malta;
• VAT simplifications measures for the acquisition and registration of ships and yachts;
• Substantial VAT reductions by means of lease structures;
• VAT-related measures on short-term chartering of yachts; and
• Competitive ship registration and tonnage tax fees.

Other benefits when choosing Malta

• Excellent international recognition of the Maltese Flag;
• Malta has bilateral agreements with foreign governments where Maltese ships receive preferential treatment in respect of port charges and taxes;
• Availability of technical assistance from a team of qualified and experienced mariners;
• No nationality restrictions for master, officers and crew;
• No restrictions on sale and mortgaging of Maltese ships;
• Malta Maritime Authority, being a flat organisation structure with direct access to the decision-makers, offers a 24/7 service in respect of urgent matters; and
• A clear strategic political vision supporting the maritime industry.

Registration and Assistance Services

At GCS Malta, we can provide a comprehensive service to yacht owners and managers, including:

• Ship and yacht registration in Malta;
• Short-term chartering of yachts;
• The planning of international tailor-made tax-efficient structures; and

The legal and tax advice involved in the simple ownership of a leisure yacht through to commercial ownership on a large scale finance, insurance and issues related to crew and manning.

We also assist in the choice of the ideal flag, taking into consideration several factors, such as:

• The reputation of the flag;
• The international recognition of the flag (in particular for tax and VAT purposes);
• The initial and yearly costs;
• Succession implications;
• Employment obligations; and
• Nationality restrictions and insurance issues.

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MALTA BOAT REGISTRATION

Malta yacht registration, malta yacht registration private use under 24 m private use over 24 m.

• Flag Registration valid worldwide
• Provisional Registration in 2/3 days
• Available for NON EU citizens
• Incl. Courier Fees

* Note: Excluded Malta Government Registration fees and inspection cost The Malta Government Registration fee depends on the length and weight of the vessel. Please use this link to do a simulation https://www.transport.gov.mt

Malta Yacht Registration Commercial Use Under 24 M Commercial Use Over 24 M

• Safe manning certificate
• Available for Non EU citizens
• Incl. Radio/MMSI License

Vessel Importation To Malta Commercial Importation Pleasure Importation

Register your boat in malta.

WE ARE THE ONLY COMPANY THAT INCLUDES ALL

• Let us check your documents for free! Are you not sure if you have the correct documents to register your boat in Malta. Please send us your documents by email or Whatsapp and our experts will check it out for you for free!
• Let us translate your documents for free Our service includes free translations of all your boat documents. This will save you a lot of money!
• 7 days costumer service in most languages We have call centers in 3 countries, were you can contact us 7 days a week with staff that speak; English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch, Russian, Ukrainian and Polish!
• Guaranteed provisional registration in 2-3 days! (After receiving signed documents) We can guarantee to have your provisional registration ready in less than 2-3 days (after receiving signed documents). This provisional registration is already fully valid to use your boat.

JUST 4 SIMPLE STEPS

ONLINE FORM

Fill in our online form in just 3 minutes

Send us your boat documents and passport copy.

We submit your paperwork to the Malta authorities.

We send your new registration to you by overnight courier

Documents needed to register your boat in Malta

In order to register your yacht in Malta, we are required to have the original documents which will be returned after:

1. Original Builders Certificate (in case of new building)

2. original notarised bill of sale, 3. original certificate of survey, 4. itc (if the vessel is over 24 meters in length), 5. carving and marking note duly signed, 6. original deletion certificate, 7. surrender the original provisional certificate, 2 - 3 days boat registration.

We can register your vessel and / or arrange your MMSI license.

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WE REGISTER MORE BOATS IN MALTA THAN ANYONE ELSE

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Malta Yacht Registration Register your boat under Maltese Flag

Malta Yacht Registration – let us take care of it!

The registration process in Malta is very straight forward, if you know your way around it. Malta Yacht Registrations can register your vessel with a provisional registration of 6 months within 2/3 days, if you have provided us with the correct documents. This provisional registration can be used all over the world while we continue with your permanent registration.

Anyone can own a yacht under the Maltese flag but EU, EEA and Swiss nationals may hold the yacht under their personal name while others would need to hold the yacht through a Maltese or foreign company. It is not required that the owner of the yacht resides in Malta or even in the EU. The place of residence of the owner is not relevant at all.

If the owner is not resident in Malta or the yacht is not owned by a Maltese company we will act as the vessels resident agent. This is a big advantage when compared to other EU vessel jurisdictions which usually require the person to be resident in the country concerned.

In order to receive the permanent registration, we will have to send Maltese Registrar of Ships additional documents but as mentioned we have 6 months to comply. If you cannot get all paperwork finished within 6 months we will apply for an extension giving us another 6 months to collect the papers needed.

Malta Boat Registration Advantages:

• Tax Benefits: Malta offers one of the most attractive tax incentives for yacht owners in the EU. Owners can benefit from a reduced VAT rate on the value of the yacht, as well as significant tax savings on income generated from the yacht.
• Flexible Registration Options: Malta offers a range of registration options, including commercial and pleasure vessels, which means that owners can choose the registration option that best suits their needs.
• High Standards of Safety: Malta is a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), which ensures that Maltese-registered vessels are held to high standards of safety and compliance.
• Efficient Registration Process: The Malta flag registration process is known to be efficient and relatively quick, with most applications processed within a few days.
• International Recognition: Malta is a reputable jurisdiction that is recognized internationally, which means that Maltese-registered vessels are accepted in most ports around the world.
• Low Maintenance Costs: Malta has a well-developed marine industry that offers competitive prices for yacht maintenance and repairs, which means that owners can benefit from low maintenance costs.

Restrictions on certain vessels There are no age restrictions on pleasure yachts or yachts registered under the commercial yacht code.

Note on older vessels:

• Vessels of 15 years and over, but under 20 years must pass an inspection by an authorised flag state inspector before or within a month of provisional registration end
• Vessels of 20 years and over but less than 25 years must pass an inspection by an authorised flag state inspector prior to being provisionally registered.
• Vessels of 25 years and over require express permission by the authorities to be registered.

Pleasure Vessel Registration In Malta

Documents required for the Pleasure Registration of a vessel:

• Original memorandum and articles of owning a company, only incase the owner of the vessel is a company
• Recent good standing certificate of owning company, only incase the owner of the vessel is a company
• Previous ITC (if vessel over 24 meters in length) - in case of new build ITC issued by the builder.
• Declaration of antifouling (if vessel is over 24 meters length)

Documents required for permanent registration:

• Original Builders Certificate (in case of new building)
• Original bill of sale
• Original certificate of survey
• ITC (if the vessel is over 24 meters in length)
• Carving and marking note duly signed
• Original deletion certificate
• Surrender the original provisional certificate

Recognised organisations: Survey, tonnage and convention certificates may be issued on behalf of the Malta government by the following recognised organisations: American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, China Classification Society, ClassNK, DNV-GL, Korean Register of Shipping, Lloyd’s Register of Shipping, Polish Register of Shipping, Registro Italiano Navale and Russian Maritime Register of Shipping.

REGISTRATION FOR NON EU/EAA SWISS NATIONAL

• If the owner of the ship is an NON EU / EEA / Swiss national, a registration of resident agent in Malta is mandatory, we will assist you with that. We require a declaration appointing us as Malta resident agent (notarized and apostilled) and a certified copy of owner’s passport (notarised and apostilled).
• If the owner of the ship is a Maltese company created by us, we will provide all the required documentation.
• If the owner of the ship is a foreign corporate entity, a registration of resident agent in Malta is mandatory, we will assist you with that. Please see below which documents are necessary in order to register your vessel with the Maltese Registration.

Commercial Vessel Registration in Malta

Documents required for the provisional registration for commercial vessels:

• Inspection Report
• Radio Report
• Radio Application
• MLC Compliance Certificate
• Certificate of Survey
• Previous tonnage certificate
• Previous certificate of survey (if applicable)
• International antifouling certificate
• International load line certificate
• Application for registration
• Declaration of ownership
• Safe manning application form
• Certified copy of previous registration certificate

Documents required for permanent commercial registration:

• Original bill of sale (dated before the provisional registration)
• Original Builders certificate
• International tonnage certificate obo Malta
• Certificate of Survey obo Malta
• Carving and Marking note
• Surrender of provisional registration certificate

FAQ – Malta Yacht Registration

Who can register a yacht under the maltese flag.

Yachts may be registered under the Malta flag by European Union citizens, European Free Trade Area Nationals or by legally constituted corporate bodies/entities irrespective of nationality.  Recently UK citizens have been added to the list of individuals who can register.

A European, EFTA National, UK citizen or a non-Malta company registering their yacht in Malta is known as an international owner.

An international owner must appoint a local resident agent in Malta – Flagport offers this service.

What size of yacht can be registered?

Private Registration – 6 metres in length or more.

Commercial Registration – 15 metres in length or more.

How can I check if the yacht I am buying is free from a mortgage?

We will be able to provide you with an official Transcript of the Certificate of Malta Registry.

If there is any mortgage registered on subject yacht, same will be reflected on the Transcript.   The Transcript of Registry would also state the official full name and address of the yacht`s owners.

What do I need to do to be able to charter my yacht?

Compliance with the Malta Yacht Code – this is specifically intended for yachts engaged in commercial operations and which do not carry more than 12 passengers. This Code covers three categories of yachts:

∙ Yachts ≥ 15 m in length overall and < 24 m in length,

∙ Yachts ≥ 24 m in length and < 500 GT,

∙ Yachts ≥ 500 GT.

An Initial Survey is required prior to issuance of a provisional Certificate of Compliance.  All yachts covered by this Code are required to be surveyed, certified and maintained in accordance to their respective category requirements in order to maintain the validity of their Certificate of Compliance (which is valid for 5 years) to trade as Commercial Yacht.

Following this there would be periodic surveys (depending on the yacht category) to maintain the Certificate of Compliance.

Where and who can Survey my yacht?

Surveys can be carried out anywhere in the world so long as a Malta Appointed Ship Surveyor or Recognised Organisation (RO) is used.  We can assist with this coordination if so requested.

Are there any nationality restrictions for Masters, Officers or Crew of the yacht?

The Malta flag imposes no nationality restrictions when it comes to Master, Officers or Crew members.

What are the advantages of the Maltese flag instead of another flag?

The Malta flag is a reputable flag. The Malta registry is the sixth largest globally, the largest in Europe and is included on the Paris MoU White Flag list. Malta has a long maritime tradition, and the ship registry is, apart from reputable, internationally recognized.

• European Flag with a long maritime tradition
• Yachts can be registered irrespective of nationality.
• Provisional Malta yacht registration certificate can be normally issued in 2-3 working days.
• Low yacht registration and resident agent or company formation costs
• Progressive reduction in registration and tonnage tax for younger yachts
• No international restrictions for Masters, Officers and Crew
• No restrictions on sales or transfers of shares of a company owning Maltese ships.
• No restrictions on the sale and mortgaging of Maltese ships
• Marriages can be officiated onboard Maltese yachts

How long does the Malta yacht registration process take?

A provisional Malta Yacht Registration certificate can be issued in 2-3 days. This is a provisional certificate which is valid for six months. The provisional certificate can be extended (not exceeding the aggregate six months). During the provisional period, all documentation needs to be finalised and a permanent certificate of registry is issued thereafter.

What are the contact hours for the Malta ship registry?

The Malta Ship registry, Transport Malta, is available twenty-four hours, seven days a week. Flagport can be contacted via telephone during office hours but feel free to contact us here 24/7.

Yacht Services in Malta

Malta, an island in the heart of the mediterranean sea, fly the malta flag.

Malta, an island in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, with the most appealing location and a comprehensive range of facilities, has been highly regarded as a maritime nation. Malta’s historical sites with the sea continue to provide opportunities in the maritime sector, including various attractive solutions for yacht and yacht owners. The island’s location has given it great strategic importance and Malta is now recognised as being an entree-port to the EU. This all creates the right environment for the island to become a resourceful service centre for every aspect of the superyachts service industry.

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With over 30 years of experience CSB Group has a team of industry experts to help you register your yacht and help you with any other yachting requirements you might have.

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WHY CHOOSE THE MALTA FLAG

Malta offers yacht marinas that are located all over the island. most marinas are equipped of high end facilities and range of services to satisfy all yacht owners’ necessities including fuel bunkering, technical services for repairs, luxury on-site facilities and immediate access to other off-site facilities., yacht registration in malta offers various advantages. through the ratification of most of the international maritime organisation (imo) international conventions, it developed a very suitable and highly competent legal structure to provide for an efficient registration process., all of the above is complimented by other factors such as low yacht registration costs., benefits of registering a yacht in malta, temporary importation procedure for non-eu yacht owners.

A temporary relief is available for yachts that are imported into EU waters by non-EU owners, with the intention of re-exporting them.

Tax efficient Yacht Leasing Structure and Purchase Option

The leasing of a pleasure yacht from a Maltese company may be subject to reduced rates of VAT, taking into account the actual use and enjoyment of the yacht within EU waters. Through such structures, it would be possible for lessors/owners of yachts to lease out their yacht to a lessee for a consideration for a specified period of time (both for a short term lease or a long term lease). Through such a structure, VAT would be payable by the lessee on the monthly lease instalments, which VAT would be payable on a quarterly basis.

Onward Supply Relief

This scheme allows the exemption from the payment of VAT due on importation of the goods from outside the European Union when the place of first destination is Malta, insofar as the goods are intended for the subsequent dispatch to another Member State as an intra-community supply following their release into free circulation authorised by the Maltese Customs.

Vat Treatment of Yachts Intended for Commercial Use

Yachts intended for commercial use may opt for VAT deferment on the importation by:

• Obtaining a VAT deferment on the importation of the yacht by a Maltese owning entity having a Maltese VAT registration; without needing to set up a bank guarantee; • Obtaining a VAT deferment on the importation of the yacht by an EU owning entity having a Maltese VAT registration, provided that the company duly appoints a VAT representative in Malta, without needing to set up a bank guarantee; or • Obtaining a VAT deferment on the importation of the yacht by a non-EU owning entity on provision by the importing entity of a bank guarantee amounting to the VAT payable on 0.75% of the value of the yacht, capped at one million euro;

MALTA: YACHT SERVICE PROVIDERS

Malta caters the whole range of maritime services including very reputable and experienced legal and corporate services supporting registration, management and administration. Amongst the services being offered are the following:

Maltese Flag Registration;

Company Registration;

Tax efficient structures;

Coordination of commercial yacht certifications;

Assisting yacht finance lease transactions;

Coordination of temporary importation procedures;

Clearing of vessels with customs / immigration both inbound and outbound;

Review of loan agreements, security agreements, statutory mortgages, collateral deeds of covenants, issuing of legal opinions;

Yacht administration, management and berthing arrangement;

Tax structuring and administration;

Enforcement of claims against Malta registered yachts or within Maltese territorial waters;

General yachting services;

Crew transfers / Visa applications/payroll services;

Travel organisation Entertainment (guided tours around Malta & Gozo);

Any specific request that Yacht Master/owner may require.

• Day-long Yacht Charters

Malta is situated in the heart of the Mediterranean south of Italy. The Maltese archipelago consists of mainly three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. The yachting paradise based around breath taking natural harbours and top class yacht marinas. The main international ports are Valletta Grand Harbour and the Port of Marsaxlokk. Others are located in the picturesque Kalkara Creek within Malta’s Grand Harbour, Portomaso Marina – in an exclusive and boutique yacht Laguna Marina, on the Valletta waterfront, in the innermost part of Marsamxetto Harbour which is the Msida Marina, Manoel Island Marina,  Roland Marina and Royal Malta Yacht Club Marina which are both situated in Ta’ Xbiex.   The second largest island, which is Gozo, has one port – Mgarr Marina, a perfect stop-over for anyone visiting Gozo or cruising around the Maltese Islands.  

The maltese flag ranks as the largest tonnage in europe and sixth largest tonnage in the world. the country is deemed as one of the leading providers of statistical services in the maritime sector and achieved the malta authority’s vision as an international centre of maritime excellence in the mediterranean..

• Fuq il-Baħar, Moħħok Hemm 2022
• Safety of Navigation
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• Registering a Small Ship
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• Registration of a self-built small ship for own personal use
• Re-Registration (boat previously registered with the Small Ships Register)
• Renewal of Registration of Small Ships
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• Declaration re Lost Official Document
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• Guidelines - Transfer of Ownership
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• Introduction
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Ship Registration

• Ships may be registered in the name of legally constituted corporate bodies or entities irrespective of nationality, or by European Union citizens
• Low company formation, ship registration and tonnage tax costs; progressive reduction in registration and tonnage tax costs for younger ships
• Attractive incentives to owners, registered charterers and financiers of Maltese ships of over 1,000 net tonnage; these incentives may also be extended to smaller ships
• No restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew
• No restrictions on the sale or transfer of shares of a company owning Maltese ships
• No restrictions on the sale and mortgaging of Maltese ships
• No trading restrictions and, preferential treatment to Maltese ships in certain ports
• Malta is an international maritime centre providing the whole range of maritime services.

The Flag of Confidence

• Serious and efficient maritime administration
• Flag state inspectorate to ensure adherence to international standards
• Twenty four hours, seven days a week service in respect of urgent matters
• Sound multilateral and bilateral relations
• Active participation in international shipping fora.

Advantages of Registering a Ship under a Maltese Flag

• ships may be registered in the name of legally constituted corporate bodies or entities irrespective of nationality, or by European Union citizens and by European Free Trade Area Nationals (Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). 
• low company formation, ship registration and tonnage tax costs;
• progressive reduction in registration and tonnage tax costs for younger ships
• these incentives may also be extended to smaller ships
• no restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew
• no restrictions on the sale or transfer of shares of a company owning Maltese ships
• no restrictions on the sale and mortgaging of Maltese ships
• no trading restrictions and, preferential treatment to Maltese ships in certain ports
• twenty four hour, seven days a week service in respect of urgent matters
• attractive incentives to owners, registered charterers and financiers of Maltese ships of over 1,000 net tonnage;
• Guide on Ship Registration (English)

Last Updated: 30/05/2019

Registration Form