Licensing and Regulation Services in Liberia

The Liberian Registry is one of the largest and most respected shipping registries in the world, with over 5,000 vessels and over 200 million gross tons registered under its flag. The registry is known for its dedication to safety, security, and environmental protection, and has earned recognition from international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for its high standards and rigorous inspection regime. Liberia's commitment to safety and security has made it a popular choice for shipowners looking for a reliable and trustworthy flag state.

Who needs an issued Foreign Flag State conversion, Liberia?

STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Officers, Modu Officers or crew members aboard a foreign flag state-registered rig or vessel in the Gulf or international waters. It is up to the discretion of the captains or the company if other crewing positions require special qualifications certificates i.e., Ability in Survival Craft, Fast Rescue Boats, Basic Safety Training, Security Awareness, or Designated Security Duties.

An STCW credential obtained from the mariners’ home country; It is called a Certificate of Competency (CoC) This issued valid credential can then be converted from Liberia. The Liberia license will help keep the rig/vessel and mariner in compliance. This is generally for officers i.e., Master, Offshore Installation Manager OIM (Offshore Installation Manager), Barge Supervisor, Ballast Control Operator BCO (Ballast Control Operator), Maintenance Supervisor, Chief Mate, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Mate, Officer in Charge of Nav Watch, Chief Engineer, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Engineer, Officer in Charge of Engine Watch and GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System).

What is a Foreign Flag State conversion, Liberia?

- Master
- OIM Offshore Installation Manager
- Barge Supervisor
- Ballast Control Operator BCO
- Chief Mate
- 1st, 2nd, 3rd Mate or Officer in Charge of Nav Watch
- Chief Engineer
- 1st, 2nd, 3rd Engineer or Officer in Charge of Engine Watch
- Maintenance Supervisor
- GMDSS
- Ship Security Officer
Complete and sign application(s); which will be provided via the web link www.maritimelicensingagency.com under the Liberia tab at the bottom of the page. Once applications are completed, you can complete the “Request Form” and provide the proper documentation. The weblink will allow you the option to make the request and upload your valid certificates. We will contact you via email after you submit the request form and once we have reviewed the documents provided.
The expected processing times will vary from country to country, generally it takes four (4) – six (6) weeks to process. Some foreign flag states will issue a Temporary certificate that is valid for 90 days that, at the discretion of the captains, will allow the mariner to work until the original has been received. The processing time for Liberia is determined on their back log of applications. At this time, it is taking 20 days to process as license for issuance. This time frame can change every day. Liberia does offer two expedite options on processing applications. 1 to 2 days to process the application, or 3 to 4 days to process the application, but it comes at an additional cost.
Hold a maritime credential (if applicable) with current training certificates, passport, hold current medical. Liberia does offer the option of testing for a license.
Fees may vary, the best practice will be to reach out to MLA for a quote.
We will keep you informed with the progress of your application. Or send us an email if you haven’t heard from us in a timely manner.
Yes, if it is on the approved list for the country processing the request.
Generally used on vessels registered with the Republic of Liberia. Singapore flagged vessel will acknowledge whitelist vessels. In the case, Singapore flagged vessels will accept the Liberian license to work.