Vessel Registration
At Global Ship Certification (GSC), we offer efficient and reliable vessel registration services, ensuring full compliance with international maritime laws and flag state requirements. We are proud to be authorized to register vessels under the jurisdiction of 45 different flag states, offering flexibility and global reach to meet the diverse needs of shipowners and operators. Additionally, GSC holds the prestigious position of deputy registrar for the St. Kitts and Nevis Flag and special agent for registration for the Sierra Leone Flag
and international trade practices. GSC simplifies this complex process, offering a comprehensive solution that covers all aspects of flag registration, ensuring that your vessel is fully compliant with the legal, safety, and operational standards required by international and national maritime authorities.
Our Flag Registration Services Include:
Registering a vessel under a specific flag state is a critical process that determines the legal framework within which the ship operates. A ship’s flag state dictates the maritime regulations that apply, as well as influences taxes, crewing requirements, and international trade practices. GSC simplifies this complex process, offering a comprehensive solution that covers all aspects of flag registration, ensuring that your vessel is fully compliant with the legal, safety, and operational standards required by international and national maritime authorities.
Initial Vessel Registration:
We assist shipowners in choosing the most suitable flag state based on operational, regulatory, and financial considerations. Our team manages the entire registration process, from gathering required documents to submitting applications to the flag administration.
Provisional Registration:
For shipowners who need immediate authorization to operate their vessels, we offer provisional registration services, allowing ships to sail under a flag while the final registration process is underway.
Permanent Registration:
Once all statutory surveys and certification are completed, we manage the transition from provisional to permanent registration, ensuring a smooth and compliant process.
Ownership Transfer and Re-registration:
We assist with the legal and administrative processes involved in transferring vessel ownership and re-registering under a new flag or ownership structure.
: In addition to commercial vessels, GSC offers specialized registration services for yachts and pleasure crafts, ensuring compliance with relevant flag state requirements for leisure vessels.
Flag State Certifications
Each flag state requires specific certifications as part of the registration process. At GSC, we help shipowners acquire and maintain the necessary flag state certifications, ensuring that the vessel meets all legal and regulatory requirements. Our services cover all essential certifications, including but not limited to:
Certificate of Registry (COR):
The primary document that proves the vessel’s nationality and right to fly the flag of the respective state. This certificate includes details about the vessel’s ownership, tonnage, and dimensions.
Radio License:
Required by the flag state to ensure that the vessel’s radio communication systems are properly registered and operational under international maritime communication regulations.
Minimum Safe Manning Certificate:
Specifies the minimum number of crew members required to safely operate the vessel, as per flag state and International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards.
Tonnage Certificate:
Certifies the vessel’s gross and net tonnage, which is essential for regulatory compliance, port dues, and determining safety standards.
International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC):
Verifies that the vessel meets the security requirements set out by the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
Ship Radio Station License:
Certifies that the ship’s radio station is approved by the flag state and complies with international telecommunication and safety standards.
Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC):
Confirms that the vessel complies with the requirements of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), ensuring the rights and welfare of the crew.
De-Registration Certificate (if applicable):
): If a vessel is being transferred from another flag, a de-registration certificate is required to prove that the vessel has been officially removed from its previous registry.
| No | Service Name | Description | Example Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Navigation License | License granting permission for the vessel to operate under a specific flag. | |
| 2 | Ship Station License | License confirming the proper operation of the vessel’s communication systems. | |
| 3 | Minimum Safe Manning | Minimum crew required to safely operate the vessel according to regulatory standards. | |
| 4 | Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) | Continuous record of the vessel’s voyage history, required by IMO. | |
| 5 | Renewal of Permanent Patent (Navigation License & Ship Station License) | Renewal of the permanent registration certificates (Navigation License and Ship Station License). | |
| 6 | Civil Liability 69 Certificate | Certificate for liability insurance related to oil pollution damage under the Civil Liability Convention (CLC). | |
| 7 | Bunker Convention Certificate | Certificate ensuring compliance with the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage. | |
| 8 | Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance – Part I | Part I of the declaration confirming the vessel’s compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). | |
| 9 | Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance – Part II | Part II of the declaration confirming the vessel’s compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). | |
| 10 | Notarization of Documents | Official notarization of documents to provide legal validity and authenticity. | |
| 11 | Exemption Certificates | Documents granting exemptions from certain maritime regulations as per the flag state’s laws. | |
| 12 | Special Registration for Delivery of Scrap | Special registration for vessels engaged in the delivery of scrap materials, including specific regulations | |
| 13 | Change of Name, Tonnages | Documentation required for changes in the vessel's name or tonnage after proper registration. | |
| 14 | Deletion Certificates | Official certificate confirming the deletion of the vessel from the register of the flag state. | |
| 15 | Dual Registration (Charter) | Temporary registration under two different flags, usually related to chartering operations. | |
| 16 | Change of Ownership | Official documentation for the transfer of the vessel's ownership from one party to another. | |
| 17 | Annual Taxes | Official documentation confirming the payment of annual taxes for the vessel. | |
| 18 | Non-Encumbrance Certificate | Certificate confirming that the vessel is free from any financial encumbrances such as liens or mortgages. | |
| 19 | Preliminary Registration of Mortgage | Preliminary registration of the vessel’s mortgage with the relevant authorities. | |
| 20 | ISM & ISPS Declarations | Declarations confirming compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. | |
| 21 | Extension of Navigation License & Ship Station License | Extension of the validity period of the Navigation License and Ship Station License, ensuring continued compliance. |
At GSC, we take pride in offering a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for vessel registration, allowing shipowners to focus on their operations while we handle the complexities of flag state compliance and certification. With access to 45 flag states, including our expertise as Deputy Registrar for St. Kitts and Nevis, we offer unmatched flexibility, ensuring that your vessel is registered under the most advantageous conditions for your business.
Get Ready to Sail
The process is easy!
1
Tell us exactly what you need
Provide us with detailed information about your vessel’s requirements and certification needs. This helps us understand your unique situation and offer the best possible solution
2
Send Us Company details and Ship Status
Please provide your company and ship details so we can prepare a personalized certification, inspection, and registration plan tailored to your needs.
3
Receive Your Customized Certification Plan
Get a certification plan tailored to your vessel’s specifications and operational needs, ensuring full compliance with international maritime standards.
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We’ve helped Thousand of vessels To sail in Safe
Partnering with TSR Marine, we’ve supported numerous vessels worldwide, ensuring safety, compliance, and smooth sailing across all seas.
Ready to move? Get a quote now!
Looking to certify your vessel or register it under a new flag? Our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process. With global certifications and tailored services, we ensure compliance and efficiency for your maritime needs. Contact us today for a personalized quote and set sail with confidence!