Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a Pacific Island nation made up of over 80 islands, located about 2,500 kilometers northeast of Sydney, Australia. The capital city of Vanuatu is Port Vila, which is the commercial center of Vanuatu and is home to the country's main port, airport, and government institutions. Vanuatu is a member of the UN, IMO, ILO, FAO and other international entities. The Vanuatu Maritime Act Cap. 131, as amended, and the Maritime Regulations are based on US law, and were chosen because of their widespread familiarity and the fundamental protection afforded to both mortgagees and mortgagors under those rules.
What is a Vanuatu Foreign Flag State conversion?
A Vanuatu Foreign Flag State conversion is the process of changing the flag registration of a foreign-flagged vessel to the Vanuatu flag. This frequently involves meeting the requirements set by the Vanuatu Maritime Authority and obtaining the necessary documentation and certifications to demonstrate compliance with their regulations regarding safety, security, and other standards. The process of converting a foreign-flagged vessel to the Vanuatu flag may also involve making modifications to the vessel to meet the requirements of the Vanuatu Maritime Authority. The result of the conversion is a vessel registered under the Vanuatu flag, with all the benefits and responsibilities that come with such registration.
With the STCW credential obtained from the mariners’ home country called a Certificate of Competency (CoC), generally held by officers i.e. Master, Offshore Installation Manager OIM, Barge Supervisor, Ballast Control Operator BCO, 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) will be considered for conversion. The issued valid credential can then be converted from Vanuatu. The converted credential will help keep the rig/vessel and mariner in compliance.
Who needs an issued Vanuatu Foreign Flag State Conversion?
A Vanuatu Foreign Flag State conversion is typically required for individuals or businesses who own a foreign-flagged vessel and wish to register it under the Vanuatu flag. This conversion process involves meeting the requirements set by the Vanuatu Maritime Authority, such as safety and security standards, and obtaining the necessary documentation and certifications. The specific individuals or businesses that need a Vanuatu Foreign Flag State conversion will depend on their specific circumstances and the type of vessel they own; Often it will be STCW 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 company if other crewing positions will require Special Qualifications Certificates (SQCs) also known as endorsements i.e. Fast Rescue Boats, Proficiency in Survival Craft, Basic Safety Training, Security Awareness, or Designated Security Duties.
Vanuatu Officer licenses you may obtain:
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
Files and documents
How soon should you apply?
The timing of a Vanuatu Foreign Flag State conversion application can vary depending on a few factors, such as the complexity of the conversion process, the availability of required documentation and certifications, and the specific needs and circumstances of the individual or business seeking the conversion.
In general, it is recommended to start the process as soon as possible to ensure that all necessary requirements are met and to avoid any potential delays or obstacles that may arise. The Vanuatu Maritime Authority can provide guidance on the specific timeline and requirements for the conversion process. It is important to carefully review and understand these requirements to ensure that the conversion process is completed in a timely and efficient manner.
How can I apply or begin the process?
Here at the Maritime Licensing Agency, we assist the mariner in every stage of the process. We manage tasks associated with your certifications including applications, fees, editing passport/color photos if needed, reviewing sea time/service letters, and advising if other documents are needed. www.maritimelicensingagency.com
Signed and completed applications should be provided via email to info@licensedmariner.com or the web link www.maritimelicensingagency.com The weblink will allow you the option to make the request and upload your valid certificates.
Documents needed to start the process
Vanuatu endorsements you may obtain:
AB-Deck
AB-Engine
AB-Modu
QMED (Qualified Member of Engine Department)
ETO (Electronic Technical Operator)
Ability in Survival Craft
Fast Rescue Boat
Radio Operator
Basic Safety Training
Security Awareness
Designated Security Duties