How to Apply for Vessel Permanent Registration in Togo

To legally operate a ship under the Togolese flag, owners must complete the vessel permanent registration process with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Transport, and Development of the Free Zone. This guide details how to apply for vessel permanent registration in Togo, including required paperwork, application steps, and key contacts.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Deputy Registrar’s Office
   Approach the office of a Deputy Registrar appointed by the Ministry of Transportation in your area or contact the Togo Registrar via one of their global offices (Togo, Lebanon, or Greece).
2. Collect and complete the application forms
   All six original copies must be filled, signed, and stamped appropriately.
3. Attach required supporting documents
   Review and compile all listed documents under the “Required Documents” section below.
4. Pay the prescribed registration fees
   Fee details must be confirmed with the registrar. Submit proof of payment with your application.
5. Submit the complete application package
   Hand over the filled forms and all required documents to the registrar for review and processing.
6. Wait for confirmation and certificate issuance
   Once verified, your application will be approved, and you will receive the official vessel registration certificate under the Togolese flag.

Required Documents

All originals must be submitted unless stated otherwise:

• Six original signed and stamped application forms
• Original Deletion Certificate from previous flag registry
• Copy of the last Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR)
• Original notarized Bill of Sale
• Original legalized Power of Attorney from seller authorizing signatory
• Original notarized Declaration of Ownership
• Valid Class & Statutory/ISM/ISPS Certificates under the Togo flag
• Original Radio Installation Inspection Report (stamped by classification surveyor)
• Original Ship’s Carving and Marking Note (stamped by classification surveyor)
• Original Statement of Vessel’s Condition (for vessels over 20 years, stamped by classification surveyor)

Eligibility

• Only vessel owners or operators are eligible to apply.
• The vessel must comply with Togolese maritime and classification standards.

Fees

• The registration fee structure depends on the vessel type, size, and age.
• Contact the Togo Registrar or the Ministry for current rates.

Processing Time

• Registration typically takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on application completeness and document verification.

Validity

• Vessel registration is permanent unless the ship is deleted from the registry.
• Periodic updates such as safety certifications and inspections may be required.

Office Locations & Contact Information

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

• Address: B.P. 831, MCITDZF Building, Lomé, Togo
• Phone: (228) 222 10 08 / (228) 222 44 70 / (228) 221 59 56
• Mobile: (228) 913 23 33
• Secretariat: (228) 222 10 08
• 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]
• Registration inquiries: [email protected]
• Endorsements: [email protected]

Greece Office (IRB-Greece)

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

Required Information in the Application

• Vessel name and IMO number
• Flag of previous registration
• Registered owner and operator details
• Ship type and dimensions
• Classification society and safety certificate details
• Port of registry
• Proof of ownership transfer

Why You Need This Certificate

A vessel permanent registration certificate:

• Grants the legal right to fly the Togolese flag
• Ensures compliance with international maritime laws
• Enables access to global maritime markets and insurance
• Is required for port state control and ship identification

Other Uses of This Document

• Needed for customs clearance and cargo handling
• Required to obtain radio communication licenses and endorsements
• Acts as proof of ship nationality and ownership

Helpful Resources

• Togo Registrar – International Registration Bureau
• Ministry of Transport, Togo