How to Apply for Vessel Regular Registration in Togo

If you intend to operate your ship under the Togolese flag, securing a vessel regular registration is a legal requirement. This process is facilitated by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Transport, and Development of the Free Zone. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to apply for vessel regular registration in Togo, including required documents, eligibility, and contact details.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Deputy Registrar’s Office
   Start the process by visiting the Deputy Registrar assigned by the Ministry of Transportation in your region or contact the International Registrations Bureau (IRB) through their Lebanon or Greece offices.
2. Fill Out All Application Forms
   Complete the necessary forms listed below under “Required Documents.”
3. Prepare and Attach All Required Documentation
   Gather all original and supporting documents (see section below). Ensure all forms are properly notarized and stamped where needed.
4. Submit the Application Package
   Submit your completed forms and documents to the registrar. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
5. Pay the Registration Fees
   Pay the prescribed fees as advised by the Registrar’s office and attach proof of payment to your application.
6. Wait for Approval and Certification
   Once the documents are reviewed and approved, the vessel will be officially registered under the Togolese flag.

Required Documents

• Application forms for:
  • Ship registration
  • Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR)
  • Ship station license
  • Minimum safe manning
  • Company Security Officer (CSO)
  • Safety Management Agreement (SMA) (signed by both parties)
• Notarized declaration of ownership (if ownership remains the same)
• Copy of applicant’s passport
• Confirmation from radio accounting authority (ITU member)
• Updated good standing certificate of the owning company
• Notarized bill of sale (if there’s a new owner)
• Readable copies of previous flag certificates, including:
  • Ship registry
  • Radio station license
  • Minimum safe manning
  • Continuous Synopsis Record
  • Cargo ship safety radio
  • Classification and statutory certificates (ISM/ISPS)
• Copy of International Tonnage Certificate (ITC)
• Non-encumbrance certificate from the previous flag registry

Eligibility

• Open to vessel owners and operators intending to register ships under the Togolese flag.
• Vessel must meet international maritime and classification standards.

Fees

• Registration fees depend on vessel type, age, and tonnage.
• Contact the Registrar’s Office for the current fee schedule.

Processing Time

• The registration process typically takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on application completeness and verification procedures.

Validity

• Vessel regular registration is valid indefinitely, provided ongoing compliance with maritime regulations is maintained.
• Certificates such as minimum safe manning or CSR must be renewed periodically.

Where to Apply

Ministry of Trade, Industry, Transport and Development of the Free Zone

• Address: B.P. 831, MCITDZF Building, Lomé, Togo
• Tel: (228) 222 10 08 / (228) 222 44 70
• Mobile: (228) 913 23 33
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.togoregistrar.com

Lebanon Office (IRB-Lebanon)

• Address: Zalka, Main Road, Municipality Building, 5th Floor, Beirut
• Tel/Fax: +961-1-883794
• Email: [email protected]

Greece Office (IRB-Greece)

• Address: 110-112 Notara Street, Piraeus 185-35, Greece
• Tel/Fax: +30 210 4528361 / +30 210 4528362
• Email: [email protected]

Information Required in the Application

• Vessel name and IMO number
• Type and class of vessel
• Owner/operator name and contact info
• Previous flag registration details
• Security and safety equipment status
• Tonnage and dimensions
• Port of registry
• Owner’s corporate documents

Purpose of the Certificate

A vessel regular registration certificate allows the vessel to:

• Operate legally under the Togolese maritime flag
• Access international waters and ports
• Meet global compliance under IMO and SOLAS conventions
• Obtain marine insurance and communication licenses

Other Uses of the Certificate

• Used for customs and maritime law compliance
• Required for chartering, leasing, or resale
• Essential for radio, safety, and security certifications

Helpful Resources

• Togo Registrar (IRB) – Official Portal
• Ministry of Trade & Transport – Togo Government
• International Registrations Bureau