Malta Flag Registration
- Manuel Schembri
- Sep 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 31, 2024
Quick Guide for Brokers and Owners

What are the key advantages for choosing Malta Flag?
Malta’s rich maritime history and expertise make it a popular choice for yacht registration. Here are some key benefits:
Stable Jurisdiction: Malta offers a secure and predictable environment for yacht owners.
Yacht-Friendly Services: A wide range of services are available, including legal, accounting, financial, and tax services tailored to the needs of yacht owners.
Clear Regulations: Malta provides well-defined rules on technical aspects, offering guidance and certainty to designers, architects, engineers, builders, and surveyors.
Safety and Security: Malta’s strict regulations have led to an excellent safety and security record over the years.
Efficient Authority: The governing body, Transport Malta, understands the yachting industry and provides services within reasonable time frames.
Expert Service Providers: Experienced professionals are available to support yacht owners.
Open Registration: All types of seaworthy yachts can be registered. Commercial yachts must meet stricter safety and security requirements for crew and guests.
Inclusive Ownership: Owners from reputable jurisdictions can register directly or indirectly.
No Crew Nationality Restrictions: No restrictions are imposed on the nationality of the crew.
Who Can Register a Yacht?
Eligibility: Any EU citizen can register a yacht under the Malta flag. Residency alone is not sufficient. Corporate bodies registered in reputable jurisdictions can also register yachts.
For Non-Malta Entities: Entities must first register as an international owner and appoint a Malta-based local agent. Required documents include proof of existence, a copy of the statute, a legal opinion, and a power of attorney in favour of the local agent.
Provisional Registration Process:
Initial Registration: Yachts are first registered provisionally under the Malta flag, allowing cruising. This registration is valid for six months.
Quick Approval: With all required documents, provisional registration can be obtained within 24 hours.
Authority: Transport Malta manages the Malta flag registration. Visit their website for more information. https://www.transport.gov.mt
Documents Needed for Provisional Registration:
Copy of the Bill of Sale or Builder’s Certificate
Copy of the existing Certificate of Register (for second-hand yachts)
Copy of CE Certificates (for the hull and engines where yacht is under 24m)
Survey Report
International Tonnage Certificate (ITC) for yachts over 24m
Information on Radio Equipment on board
Moving from Provisional to Permanent Registration:
After provisional registration, owners have six months to submit the necessary documents for permanent registration, including proof of ownership in original and a survey report.
Additional Benefits:
No Physical Presence Required: Yachts do not need to be in Malta for the registration process and are not required to visit Malta for flagging purposes.
Crew Endorsements and Seaman Books: Available for all officers, depending on crew certification.
Social Security Contributions: It is possible to pay crew social security contributions in Malta upon registering the yacht under the Malta flag.
Contact Us
For more information call on +356 79678671 or send an email on ag@agadvisory.mt