Vessel registration under the Malta flag and the operation of Maltese ships is regulated by the Merchant Shipping Act, a law based mainly on U.K. legislation but subsequently revised and amended in 1986 and 1988 and 1990.

ADVANTAGES

• Low company formation and ship registration cost;

• Complete tax exemption to owners, charterers and financiers of Maltese ships of over 1,000 net tons; this exemption may also be extended to smaller ships;

• No restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew;

• No restriction 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;

• Offshore companies operating ships can enjoy all the exemptions and benefits provided for by the offshore legislation;

• Twenty four hour, seven days a week service in respect of urgent matters;

• Malta is an international maritime centre providing the whole range of maritime services.

  Eligibility for registration    Procedure for registration 

  Bareboat charter registration    Manning, International Convention, Mortgages.

  Malta Flag: Index