Frequently asked questions
Is San Marino a country with a good reputation?
Yes, San Marino is a country which is OECD White Listed which means that it has a top reputation. (https://oecd.org)
What is the highly reduced Profit Tax rate for a San marino maritime Company?
The highly reduced profit tax rate for a San Marino Maritime Company is only 3.4% of your company’s profit. This for the first 10 years of the company. This can be postponed for max. 3 years in the low profit phase of a startup company.
Can the 10 years period of highly reduced profit tax rate be postponed in the low profit phase of a startup company?
Yes, this can be postponed for max. 3 years
What is the Dividend Tax in San marino?
The dividend tax in San Marino is as low as only 5%
What are the fees for the San Marino accountant?
In the case you would like to receive the formal offer of the recommended San Marino accountant we work with just send us an offer request by email. You will receive the offer within max. 2 working days.
Is San Marino a reputable European country for my Maritime Company?
Yes!
As the world’s oldest republic, San Marino offers financial and political stability, a robust legal framework, and exceptional tax advantages.
San Marino is a highly respected European jurisdiction for establishing your business.
What is the normal Company Profit Tax in San Marino?
The normal Company Profit Tax in San Marino is 17% of your companies profit. But for the first 10 (or max. 13 years if postponed) you pay only a low profit tax of 3.4%
Does San Marino has VAT?
No!
San Marino has no VAT for your San Marino Maritime Company when doing business outside San Marino. Ideal for purchasing yachts and other maritime investments.
Can a San Marino Maritime Company have a natural person as a shareholder or a company as a shareholder?
Yes!
Both shareholder types are possible. This can be of any nationality or jurisdiction in the world. (For Russian shareholders limitation apply based on restrictions).
Will a Due Diligence be a part of the San Marino Maritime Company creation procedure?
A Due Diligence of the shareholder, director and beneficial owner will be a part of the San Marino Maritime Company creation procedure. This is included in the price.
Why do i need to provide a Criminal Record (or ofcourse the absence of it) certificate?
San Marino has an excellent reputation among authorities worldwide. To safeguard this reputation, an extract of your criminal record (or the absence thereof) for San Marino is important. You can request this declaration from the authorities in your own country. This is a standard document that they will produce for you.
What is the minimum required company stock for a San Marino Maritime Company?
25.500,- euro is the minimum company stock for a San Marino Maritime Company.
You are required to pay this into the account of your own company bank account in San Marino. After deposit and verification by the notary, you can immediately use these credits for your business payments and investments.
Is the company stock of 25,500 euros deposited into your San Marino company bank account immediately withdrawable?
Yes, you can immediately use this amount for your business payments and investments after verification by the notary.
Am I personally liable for any losses incurred by my San Marino Maritime Company?
No, only the assets of your San Marino Maritime company can be used in the event of loss or bankruptcy. You cannot be held personally liable. (This with the exception of any culpable or criminal conduct, just like in all other jurisdictions.)
Can I also use the San Marino Maritime Company to acquire real estate and capital investments?
Yes, no problem at all!
Is having a local (virtual) office address in San Marino mandatory?
Yes. Having a local (virtual) office address in San Marino is mandatory (just like in any other jurisdictions). We can arrange this for you for 300 euros per month. This includes the use of a shared office. Any additional services such as post forwarding and secretarial services can be agreed additionally.
Do the documents I need to provide for creating a San Marino Maritime Company have to be provided in English?
Yes, documents that are not standard in English must be translated into English or Italian by a qualified translator.
Within what period must the share capital be deposited into the San Marino company bank account?
The share capital must be paid into the San Marino company bank account within 120 days after the creation of the San Marino Maritime Company.
How high is the corporate tax in San Marino?
The corporate tax is only 350 euros per year in San Marino
Is a San Marino Maritime Company required to have employees?
Yes, within 6 months the San Marino Maritime Company must have at least 1 employee. This is usually the director. A second employee must be appointed within 24 months. This can be any type of employee with any desired salary.
What is the income tax in San Marino for employees (natural persons)?
The income tax for employees (natural persons) in San Marino is progressive (from 9% till 35%) depending of the hight of the salary. Your San Marino accountant can inform you in detail about it on request.
Can San Marino Maritime Company costs and investments be deducted in San Marino?
Yes, almost all business investments and costs can be deducted for tax in San Marino
Can the purchase of a yacht or other business investments be made VAT free in San Marino?
Yes, the purchase of a yacht or other business investments can be made VAT free by the San Marino Maritime Company
Can the opening of a corporate bank account in San Marino be done remotely?
Yes, several banks in San Marino support the remote opening of a corporate or personal bank account. We can provide an introduction to this for you.
Can San Marino commercially flagged yacht be used for private use also?
Yes, a San Marino commercial flagged yacht can be used for max. 90 days a year for private use. For this you can send a email to the San Marino nautical authorities who then will issue a statement for you!
Can i perform bare boat charter activities with the San Marino yacht registration?
Yes, you can legally perform bare boat charter activities with the San Marino yacht registration with a maximum of 84 days per year! You can download a document about it here: http://www.smsr.sm/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/211108-SMPL-2021-REG-017-1.pdf
My yacht is VAT paid in the European Union. What will be the VAT status once i have registered my yacht in San Marino?
When you register your yacht in San Marino, the VAT status of your yacht stay in tact and will not change!
Which survey / classifications company’s can i use to inspect my yacht for the San Marino yacht registration? (Only mandatory for yachts over 24 meters and commercial yachts)
Rina, Bureau Veritas, Lloyd’s, Turkish Lloyd, DNV and the American Bureau of Shipping are authorized by the San Marino nautical authorities to perform the ships in inspection in their name.
They are currently in the process of authorizing the rest of the IACS class societies.
It is also possible to make use of the UDICER survey network (www.udicer.eu)
What skipper licenses can be used in combination with a San Marino yacht registration?
All certificates irrespective of nationality are accepted, there are no restrictions.
Which skipper certificates are accepted for a commercial registered San Marino flagged yacht?
STCW II/2 master, CoC from other countries who have ratified the STCW convention are all accepted
If i want to register my yacht commercially in San Marino, do i have to provide any additional documents?
No, the mandatory documents are exactly the same as for a pleasure yacht. Only additional which needs to be done is have your yacht inspected by a authorized classification company to obtain the safety and technical certificates.
The mandatory documents are:
-Color scan copy of your passport or ID card
-Company documents if the yacht is owned by a company
-Bill of Sale or Builders Certificate
-Power of Attorney (we will provide that to you)
-Proof of deletion of the previous registry (when applicable)
-Previous International Tonnage Certificate (when available)
-Completed application forms (we will provide that to you)
I have a small yacht under the San Marino commercial flag? Is an inspection mandatory?
For commercial trade the initial inspection is mandatory.
The inspection can be carried out by a San Marino R.O. or by an authorized surveyor.
The inspection is relevant to the compliance with the San Marino Small Yacht Safety Code and with the IMO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC2006).
Only yacht above 10 m ca be registered commercially in San Marino.
When i register my yacht as a commercial yacht. Do i have to send the survey report from the classification company in original to the San Marino authorities?
No, the San Marino authorities will receive the digital documents directly from the classification company’s.
How long does the commercial yacht registration procedure in San Marino take in total?
Once we and the classification company have provided the full dossier to the San Marino nautical authorities the total procedure will take only 2 working days. This is the fastest procedure in the world.
How long the registration procedure will take for a San Marino pleasure yacht registration?
The total procedure for a pleasure yacht registration will take only 2 working days. This is the fastest procedure in the world!
How often a San Marino pleasure yacht registration has to be renewed?
A San Marino yacht registration only needs to be renewed once per 5 years.
Can the mortgage on the yacht be registered in San Marino?
Yes, this is no problem but comes at additional costs
Which VAT exemptions do apply for Greek charter yachts?
Yachts over 12 meters have the following exemptions :
–
VAT FREE :
———
Marinas
Shipyard
Spare Parts
Maintenance Fees
WHILE UNDER CHARTER ONLY AND PROVIDED THAT FUEL IS NOT PAID BY THE CUSTOMER :
–
Tax Free Fuel / In Greece Only
While in Greece you operate your own yacht there is no taxation as the operation is income tax free .
IMPORTANT NOTICE
During the use of the yacht by the owner or members of his family there are no exemptions at all during the period of use
Which qualifications (diploma’s – certificates) are needed for the skipper to perform charter with the Greek Charter License?
Yachts under 24 meters fall under the bareboat regulation so any Sailing Diploma from any Administration or Yacht Club is accepted (RYA etc )
Who will be the owner of the charter yacht?
You or your company will be or stay the owner of your yacht.
Do i need a company to use the Greek Charter License Package?
No, you do not need a company to make use of the Greek Charter License Package.
Can i perform charter everywhere in Greece?
Yes, you can perform charter activities everywhere in Greece.
Where can i request information about the crew endorsement for commercial Polish yachts?
Here you can send a email to request information about the crew endorsement for commercial Polish yachts: https://en.ums.gov.pl/contact
Does Gibraltar flagged yachts have any limitations in the EU?
The general change effected by Brexit relates to British nationals and freedom of movement through the EU. The UK is now treated as a third country to the EU therefore Visits within the Schengen area are limited to 90 days per every 180 days in the EU. Gibraltar itself is currently under negotiations on its own geographical Brexit arrangements and is expected to form part of the Schengen area.
Do Gibraltar flagged yachts have to pay any VAT in the EU?
In regards to yachts and VAT post Brexit means that most non -EU yachts are subject to Temporary Admission when entering EU waters which allows for a stay of 18 months before the yacht is liable to pay VAT in the EU. Yachts who transit into and out of EU Waters should keep a ‘transit log’ of their ports with entry and exit stamps. The Temporary admission is restarted every time the yacht leaves EU waters but once again it is important to keep clear and concise records especially showing that you have left EU waters. An example of this is to visit the Canary Islands who although are Spanish are not within EU waters.
British flagged yachts register before Brexit and in EU waters before the 31 December 2021 with their tax paid are considered VAT paid.
Can a Gibraltar registration be used for bare boat charter activities?
Yes, a yacht can be bare boat chartered which is a favoured option by owners who wish to captain their own yacht and in these circumstances the corporate body is created to own the vessel. Or wish to hire out the yacht for a period of time.
Can i get a Polish radio license when i have a Polish yacht registration?
Yes, The first step is to finalize the Polish yacht registration procedure. Once that is ready we can proceed with the request for the Polish radio license. Please note that this is a quite slow procedure and can take up to 2 months time.
What are the demands for a Polish radio license?
To obtain a Polish radio license you need: 1. To have a valid EU radio operators license which is issued by a ITU linked organisation (https://itu.org) 2. The radio equipment needs to have a CE number and you need to provide the CE document of the radio equipment.
Is the Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license available for anybody?
No, it is only available for Dutch citizens or holders of a Dutch Zeebrief registration for their yacht.
How long does it take for you to create a Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license?
In general your Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license is ready within 24 hours.
Does a Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license has yearly costs?
Yes, there is a annual tax on the Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio License
What does the Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license package include?
Your Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license includes a call sign, ATIS number and MMSI number. Also you can add the phone numbers of your emergency contacts.
To obtain a Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license do i need to present my radio operators license?
No, when we make the request for the Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio license the authorities do not ask to show them the radio operators license.
Can a Dutch AIS & MMSI Radio License be transferred to the new owner of a yacht?
Yes, this is no problem. The only thing we need to update are the phone numbers of your emergency contacts.
Can a UK AIS & MMSI radio license be transferred to the new owner of a yacht?
No, this is not possible. In such case the current radio license needs to be deleted. Once deleted the new owner can make a request for a new UK AIS & MMSI Radio license . New numbers and a new call sign will be provided. It is not possible to maintain the old numbers and call sign.
To obtain a UK radio license, do i need to show my radio operators certificate?
No, you do not need to show your radio operators certificate. Nobody will ask for it when creating the UK radio license.
What does a UK radio license package include?
A Uk radio license package includes a call sign, ATIS number and MSI number. Also you can add your emergency contacts details and their phone numbers.
Has a UK radio license yearly costs?
No, a UK radio license does not have any yearly costs.
How long does it take to create a UK radio license?
In general this will be ready within only 24 hours.
Is the UK radio license available for anybody?
Yes, the UK radio license is available for anybody.
Can the UK radio license be used in combination with only a UK or Red Ensign yacht registration?
Yes and no, formally the Uk radio license can only be used in combination with a UK or Red Ensign yacht registration. But daily practice is that it is being combined with many many yacht registration jurisdiction from all over the world. On website as Shipfinder and Marinetraffic your yacht will show as a UK yacht.
How much VAT do i have to pay on charters for yachts under 24 meters?
The applicable VAT on charters for yachts under 24 meters is 13%
How long does it take to create a UK Limited company?
In general it takes 2 working days to create a UK Limited company
Do we need a UK statutory address in the UK to create a UK Limited company?
Yes, you need a UK statutory address. This address is included in the UK Limited package.
Are there yearly costs to maintain a UK Limited company?
Yes, there are annual costs to maintain your UK Limited company. These costs are for: 1. The statutory address, 2. Filing of accounts, 3. Filing of confirmation statements, 4. UK representation
Can anybody request for a UK Limited company?
Yes, citizens of any nationality can make a request for a UK Limited company.
Can anybody be a director or shareholder for a UK Limited company?
Yes, any citizen from any country can become a director or shareholder for a Uk Limited company.
The UK Limited company’s you create are “dormant” company’s. Can they trade or deploy commercial activities in any kind?
No, a dormant company is a “sleeping” company which does not trade or deploy any commercial activity.
What happens if i do not pay the yearly costs to maintain my UK Limited company?
If you do not pay the yearly costs for maintaining the UK Limited company your company will no longer have the mandatory UK statutory address. Also no filing of accounts and filing of confirmation statements are being done. This will result in high penalties for the company owner. In the case you do no longer need your UK Limited company it is always important that you delete your company. We can do such for you!
What is the procedure to delete my UK Limited company?
Given that you hire our services to delete your UK Limited company the deletion dossier will be created and send to our UK notary. Once he has filed the deletion request there will be a “cooling off” period of 2 months. After this period your company will be permanently deleted.
I have friends or family in the UK, can we use their address to create the UK Limited company?
No, we only use our own UK statutory address.
Do i need to do any tax filings for my dormant UK Limited company?
Yes, but we take care of that as long as the yearly costs have been paid.
For which of your registration types i can use a UK Limited company?
You can use the UK Limited company for the UK Part 1, Gibraltar and the Polish registration.
Are yacht under 12 meter VAT exempted in Greece?
No, only charter yachts over 12 meters are VAT exempted
What are the minimum required number of charter days to profit from the Greek VAT exemptions?
Minimum days of charter to do over a three years period.
105 days if yacht chartered without crew otherwise 75 days or 25 days for classic yachts and 5% to 20% reductions depending upon the age of the yacht.
No minimum days requirements for VAT paid yachts.
What are the requirements for the employment of the crew with the Greek Charter License?
There is no requirements for Crew in Greece for Commercial Yacht Charters under 24 Meters .
If there will be crew on board the Greek Authorities will only ask for the Contract of Employment and for him to have a Health Insurance. (NOTHING ELSE) .
All other matters , social contributions etc are between the owner and the seaman.
I want to buy a yacht VAT free. How does that work?
As far as Greece is concerned you will receive a VAT Exemption and while the yacht will trade in Greece NO VAT ISSUES WILL BE RAISED
Will we have VAT exemption on fuel, mooring, etc? And how doe sthis work?
Yes, based on the Greek Charter License you will have VAT exemption in Greece on matters as fuel, mooring, etc. This means that in Greece you pay VAT free prices on this. If your charter location is outside Greece it is wise to check if this also applies in the country of your location. This because always local national rules apply in such.
With private use, a contract must be on board and the VAT still needs to be paid?
No, there is no VAT for the private use of the charter yacht.
What are the formalities at embarkation?
The formalities at embarkation are:
– Charter agreement in 5 copies
– Crew & Passenger List
– Yacht registry copy
– Yacht Insurance Copy
– Skipper’s License
– Solemn Declaration of one more passenger that he has nautical skills
Very soon these will be replaced for a electronic filing system!
Can you send us a draft of the Charter Management Assignment?
Ys, just send us a email with your request and we will send you a draft example of the Charter Management Assignment!
Can you send me a draft of the charter agreement?
Yes, just send us a email with your request and we will send you the draft agreement for your review.
Will there be a separate contract between the charter client and the skipper per each charter?
No, there will be only one charter agreement!
What documents from the charter client are required to draft the charter contract?
Just the normal details which are usual in the charter industry. You can request us to send you a draft of the charter agreement for your review.
If a yacht needs to be inspected outside Greece, will additional costs for the inspection apply?
Yes, there will be additional costs for travel and stay if the yacht needs to be inspected outside Greece. The inspection only needs to be done once in the 3 years!
With the Greek Charter License Package, which flag will the yacht have?
The yacht will have the Polish flag
Which yachts qualify for the Greek Charter License Package?
All yachts till 24 meter, of any material, of any type.
Will the charter payments be done on the yacht owners bank account?
Yes, all charter payments will be done directly on your own bank account!
Can the fuel be bought anywhere in EU in order to qualify for the VAT reduction / Exemptions
NO . Each Country in the EU Applies its own rules
I read on the internet that VAT exemption on fuel is only with Transit fuel …What is exactly is meant by this ?
TRANSIT FUEL means fuel for marine purposes and this is offered VAT and TAX FREE only for the specific charter and consumption which should be mentioned in the charter agreement
Does a “Bareboat” setup still qualify for all VAT exemptions or reductions?
YES . However following has to be proven:
This will be for yachts that spend a minimum of 60 per cent of charter time/days outside of territorial waters.
(Territorial waters are considered: six nautical miles from the mainland and six nautical miles from the
territorial waters of an Island). This also applies for yachts commencing charters outside
EU territory and that remain outside for more than 60 per cent of chartered days and end their charter in Greece.
Do i need to have a crew with the Greek Charter License in order to benefit from the 0% VAT?
NO . However in order to be benefited from this you will need to prove the following :
Discounted at 50 per cent (VAT 12 per cent) or 6.5% Till 30/9/2021 – This will be for yachts that spend a minimum of 60 per cent of charter time/days outside of territorial waters. (Territorial waters are considered: six nautical miles from the mainland and six nautical miles from the territorial waters of an Island). This also applies for yachts commencing charters outside EU territory and that remain outside for more than 60 per cent of chartered days and end their charter in Greece.
Does my yacht need a crew under the Greek Charter License?
No, In Greece yachts up to 24 meters fall under the Bareboat Code.
Is it possible to have the Greek VAT number without creating a Greek company and without using the Charter Management Assignment?
No, this is not possible. The Charter Management Assignment is an important part of this smart charter solution without the need to create a Greek company and avoid all Greek bureaucracy.
With the Greek Charter License Package, do we need to establish a Greek company?
No, you do not need to create a Greek company. Based on the Charter Management Assignment you will fully operate under this Assignment and have your own Greek VAT number.
Can the inspection for the Greek Charter License Package also be done in a country outside Greece?
Yes, the inspection can be done in any country in the EU. Of course there will be extra costs because of the inspectors extra time and travel costs.
What are the costs for the Charter Management Assignment?
The costs for the Charter Management Assignment is a fixed low fee per charter. No charters, no costs!
Till 2 charters on a month base the costs per charter are 180,00 euro
For all next charters the costs will be only 110,00 euro per charter.
Of course these costs can be calculated in the charter price!
This are all-inclusive prices without any hidden costs.
The payments of the charters will be done directly on your own bank account.
What is the Charter Management Assignment exactly?
The Charter Management Assignment is a service agreement with our Greek administrative partner who is formally licensed for Greek charter tax declarations and who will take care of the complete charter administration, charter contracts and the Greek VAT tax declarations. You don’t have to worry about anything!
For this service the charter yacht owner pays a fixed low fee per charter. No charters, no costs!
Till 2 charters on a month base the costs per charter are 180,00 euro
For all next charters the costs will be only 110,00 euro per charter.
Of course these costs can be calculated in the charter price!
This are all-inclusive prices without any hidden costs.
The payments of the charters will be done directly on your own bank account.
Will the Greek authorities allow any EU skipper license in combination with the Greek Charter License Package?
Yes, the Greek authorities allow any skipper license in combination with the Greek Charter License Package.
What will be the extra social security contribution for the staff on a Greek commercial yacht?
In principle yachts under 24 meters do not need to have crew on board .
However if the yacht owners employ crew voluntarily then see below :
–
-If you hire an EU Citizen who is already insured in any EU State he must have with him the A1 Form and by presenting this you are exempt from any contribution .
-If you hire a NonEU Citizen he needs private health insurance
-If you hire a Greek Citizen then the contributions are set up to 40% of the salary as this is agreed with the National Seafarers Basic Salary Agreement .
I want to avoid paying VAT on my new to buy yacht. How can that be done?
VAT Will not need to be paid as long as the yacht is in commercial use and is trading under license as a commercial yacht. This is exactly what the Greek Charter License Package is offering.
What are the requirements for the survey to obtain the Greek Charter License?
Just send us a email and it will be our pleasure to send you the information sheet with all details for the inspection requirements!
With the Greek Charter License Package, what are the costs per year for the accountant?
No costs per year for the accountant. Just a fixed fee per performed charter. These costs are included in the costs per charter based on the Charter Management Agreement.
Do i need to do the yacht survey in Greece to obtain the Greek Charter License?
No, a local survey can be done. The Greek inspector will visit your boat. This needs to be done only one in the 3 years.
Which kind of invoice do i need to send to make use of the reduced Greek VAT on charter activities?
Part of the Charter License Package is the Charter Management Agreement. This means that the licensed Greek Charter Service provider will arrange all charter contract for you, including Greek invoice and reduced Greek VAT. All payments go direct on your own bank account. You pay a fixed fee for all handling of 180 euro for 2 charters per month and for all additional charters you pay 110 euro per charter. These costs can be calculated in the total charter costs of course.
Do i need a local charter permit when using the Greek Charter License Package?
To perform local charter activities you will always need a local permit to perform charters. This is the same in any country. As base you can use the charter package which can be used in any country in the world.
How long is the Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration valid?
The Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration does not have an expiration date. However it has yearly obligations concerning legal representation, Dutch address, taxes and fees. For this you will receive a yearly invoice.
Are there any restrictions as to who can act as a company director?
Yes, there are a few restrictions as follows:
Another company.
An undischarged bankrupt.
The company’s auditor.
A person specifically barred by the Courts.
A person who has been convicted on indictment of any indictable offence in relation to a company, or any indictable offence involving fraud or dishonesty, is automatically disqualified for five years (or for such period as the court may order) from being appointed as a director or from being concerned in any way in the promotion, management or formation of any company.
If the proposed Director already holds 25 directorships.
I am an EEA resident, can i set up a company in Ireland acting as sole director?
Yes. You can set up an Irish limited company with a single director who is a resident of EU/EEA. However, by law, you are required to appoint a Company Secretary to take care of your filings to the Companies Registration Office and the Revenue Commissioners, as well as deal with day to day business, needs as they arise.
Are there any restrictions to the selection of an Irish company name?
As a general guide, the Companies Registration Office will refuse registration of a company name if it breaches the following guidelines:-
It is offensive.
It suggests state sponsorship.
It causes phonetically and/or visually similar names.
Names containing certain words cannot be used unless written approval is received from certain bodies, examples include:-
Words such as “bank”, “banc”, “banker” and “banking” must be approved by the Central Bank of Ireland. This includes names containing these words such as “Sallybank”, even through the business does not intend operating in the banking sector.
Words such as “insurance”, “re-insurance” and “assurance” must be approved by the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority.
Words such as “society”, “co-op” and “co-operative” must be approved by the Registrar of Friendly Societies.
Words such as “University” and “Institute of Technology” must be approved by the Department of Education.
“Holding”, “group”, “system”, “services”, “international”, etc. may not be regarded as a sufficient distinction between company names.
Can i register an Irish Limited company if i am not an Irish resident?
You do not need to be a resident in Ireland. However, you must meet several other conditions including:
-You must be over 18 years and older
-You must never have been declared bankrupt
-You will require a registered office address in Ireland
Can i use the Dutch domicile to receive mail, shipments or use it as a address for my insurance company?
No, we do not support such. It is only for the matter of the boat registration!
If i have a EU ICP Light Registration, which is a ownership registration and not a flag certificate, am i allowed to fly the Dutch flag behind my boat?
Yes, there is no limitations in flying the Dutch flag behind your boat when you have the EU ICP Light Registration behind your boat.
How long is the Polish EU Flag Registration valid?
The Polish EU Flag Registration does not have a expiry date. Therefor it is valid as long as you own the boat!
How long is the UK Part 1 Registration valid?
The UK Part 1 Registration is valid for 5 years and then needs to be reconfirmed. Next t the reconfirmation it also has yearly costs for the mandatory UK address, UK Limited company costs, representation, filing of accounts, confirmation statement, taxes and fees. These will be invoiced once a year. Yacht Registration Holland takes care of all obligations so it is a worry free registration.
How many shares can a company have?
A private limited company must have a minimum of 1 shareholder and is subject to a limit of 99 shareholders.
How long is the EU ICP Light Registration valid?
The EU ICP Light Registration needs to be renewed every 2 years. Unfortunately because of new Dutch legislation it is no longer possible for NON Dutch citizens to obtain the ICP Light Registration.
I want to register the boat in a EU country. Do i now need to pay the VAT on the boat (again)?
We are a registrar and do not provide tax related advises. However, if you send us a email with your VAT related question we will send you a tax advise document which has been created by an accountant. Tax is always complicated stuff so make sure you know what you are doing in this matter!
What are the minimal safety equipment requirements to sail under the Dutch flag?
A life jacket for each person on board,
Lifebuoy with light,
Magnetic compass,
Navigation lights,
Boat horn and manual depth gauge,
Anchor,
Hammer,
Boat hook,
Bilge pump or bailer,
Sufficient number of oars,
At least 20 m of rope,
Waterproof, battery-powered torch,
Fire extinguisher,
Complete sail kit (for sail boats),
First-aid kit.
Is there a maximum boat length to make a successful Polish EU Flag Registration request?
Yes, in Poland there is a maximum of 24 meters to make a pleasure boat registration possible. In the case a boat is over 24 meters we advise to make use of one of the other boat registrations we offer.
Is there a maximum boat length to make a successful UK Part 1 Registration request?
No, there is no maximum boat length to make a successful request for the UK Part 1 Registration. Boats over 24 meters have to provide a ITC 69 Tonnage Certificate instead of the normal tonnage and measurement certificate. This certificates needs to be issued by a surveyor from the approved list (https://www.yachtregistration.company/find-a-uk-approved-surveyor-near-you/#uk_part_1)
Is there a maximum boat length to make a successful Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration request?
No, there is no maximum boat length to make a successful request for the Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration. For boats over 24 meters the boat owner has to provide himself the tonnage certificate which needs to be issued by a classification company which has an office in The Netherlands like Lloyds, Veritas, Rina, etc.
Is there a maximum boat length to make a successful EU ICP Light Registration request?
No, there is no maximum boat length to make a successful request for the EU ICP Light Registration
Can i request for a “proof of deletion” certificate after the expiry date of the EU ICP Light Registration?
Yes, that is possible. If you require a proof of deletion you can send us a email request for it and we will inform you about the details.
Can i be a director of a Irish Limited company if i hold a NON EU passport?
No, a director of a Irish company always has to hold a EU passport. But we offer a nominee director service for our NON EU clients so also our NON EU clients can open a Irish Limited company without any problem.
Can a citizen from a NON EU country register directly on his own name in Poland and without the use of a EU company?
Yes, Poland accepts yacht registration requests from NON EU citizens. Also San Marino accepts yacht owners from any nationality in the world!
Is a Polish inspection offer request obligation free?
Yes, when you make a Polish inspection offer this is obligation free. You are not obliged to accept the offer. Please note that this is ONLY mandatory for COMMERCIAL yachts. In case you have requested a Greek Commercial Package the inspection is already included in the price.
How often does a Polish yacht inspection needs to be done?
In almost all cases a yacht inspection needs to be redone every 3-5 years. It might be possible that for very old ships or ships in a moderate / bad technical condition the inspection needs to be redone every 3 years.
Why do i need a Polish yacht inspection?
A yacht inspection is ONLY mandatory for commercial charter yachts. In the case you have a normal pleasure yacht you do NOT need a Polish yacht inspection.
The inspection is needed because for a commercial yacht you need to have the Safety Certificate and the Technical certificate.
Once on board the inspector will inspect the whole ship and based on the outcome of this inspection the Safety and Technical certificates will be issued.
How long is the Polish AIS & MMSI Radio License valid?
The Polish AIS & MMSI Radio License is valid for a period of 10 years. After this period it can be renewed. In that case the provided numbers and call sign will stay the same.
Do i need to have a Polish yacht registration to obtain the Polish AIS & MMSI Radio License?
Yes, you can only obtain a Polish AIS & MMSI Radio License once your Polish yacht registration has been completed. You can upload the Polish yacht registration when making the Polish radio license request.
Do i need to have a radio operators license to obtain a Polish AIs & MMSI Radio License?
Yes, to obtain a Polish AIS & MMSI Radio License you need to have a radio operators license. You can upload it in your radio license request.
How long can i stay, with a NON EU yacht registration, in the European Union with my boat?
This questions provides 3 answers:
1. A non EU flagged boat can stay as long as it wants in the European Union. There is no limitation on it.
2. The persons on board however, when they do NOT have a EU passport, can stay max. 90 days in the European Union. For longer stays they need a residence permit or a Visa.
3. If a NON EU flagged yacht, and for which the EU VAT has not been paid in the EU, stays longer than 18 months in the EU, VAT has to be paid in the EU. This can be easily avoided for the yacht by leaving the EU for 1 days and then come back in the EU. Make sure you can proof that you have left the EU.
Please note that it is always our advise to consult a (tax) consultant who is specialized in these matters.
Can i terminate my boat registration or AIS & MMSI radio license any moment i want?
Yes, that is no problem at all. Just send us a termination request by email and based on the type of registration we will inform you the procedure. In most cases we need to receive back the original registration document to add to the termination dossier which we have to send to the nautical authorities. Once the termination has been processed you will receive a “proof of deletion” which you can use to make a new registration possible.
The documents you need to present when opening a Irish bank account are likely to include:
Two forms of ID, including a photo form such as a passport, for the individual opening the account.
A valid bank mandate form, confirming that you have the authority to open an account on behalf of the business.
Signature samples for anyone with authority to use the account.
Constitution, and Certificate of Incorporation –for limited company only.
Evidence of Partnership – if you are applying as such.
Certificate of Business Name – if applicable.
If you are a new customer, you may need to provide evidence of your banking history (recent statements) to prove you are reliable and a good risk.
Opening deposit.In some cases, you will need to bring original documents to the branch to open the account, in others, copies will be accepted.
What is the process for opening a business bank account in Ireland?
Exactly what documents you need to open a business bank account in Ireland will depend on the type of account you choose. If you are a partnership, you will need to provide documents relating to all beneficial owners or those with a 25% share (or more). If you are a limited company, you need a mandate form signed by all directors to confirm they agree to the opening of the account.
We would like to get an EU resident nominee director. Are you able to offer this solution?
Yes, we do. We have several professional Irish and EU/EEA resident vetted directors who could be integrated into any type of corporate structure you are planning to set up. You could add this service to your cart after you have purchased our non-resident package
Do dormant companies need to file accounts?
Yes, all Irish Limited companies (dormant or trading) must prepare and submit accounts to the Companies Registration Office on an annual basis, regardless of the company’s trading activities.
I live overseas, do you provide a mail forwarding service?
Yes. we will forward all your mail to your chosen correspondence address, globally. The cost will be the An Post fee plus a 15% handling fee.
What is the role of a company secretary?
A company secretary advises the company and looks after compliance and corporate governance matters. They are responsible for filing the company’s annual returns and filing taxes among other administrative functions. In a company with multiple directors, one of the directors can act as a company secretary. If the company is a single-director company, a separate Company Secretary is required by law. Irish Company offers a professional and affordable Company Secretary Service
What is a registered office address?
A registered address is the official address of an Irish limited company where all official government correspondence is being posted to. The registered office address must be a physical address in Ireland. Your company, however, does not need to carry out its business or trade activities from this address. If you do not have a suitable Irish address to use as your registered office, the Non-Residents Package includes a registered office address in Ireland.
Does the EU ICP Light Registration provides the Dutch nationality to a boat?
No. The Dutch EU ICP Light Registration is an ownership registration and not a flag registration. In the case you require a flag (Title) registration we advise you to look for our other options! The EU ICP Light Registration will be issued based on resolution 13 from the Economical Commission for Europe of the United Nations!
Is it mandatory to have an address or domicile in the country where i make a boat registration?
Yes and no. In some countries you need a local address or a local representative to make a boat registration possible in that country. We will arrange the local representation or address when needed. You don’t have to worry about anything!
Can i expect a lot of bureaucracy when making a boat registration with you?
No, in all countries from which we offer boat registrations we have fixed contact persons in the nautical authorities of that country. That means that we work highly efficient and with fixed procedures. The communication is fast and between people who know each other!
Does a boat needs to be registered to have it insured?
Yes, almost all insurers will demand that the boat has a proper boat registration. Please note, when a boat has a expired boat registration most insurers will terminate the insurance policy or, in case of any damage, will not pay the damage amount to the insured person. So it is highly important that the owner will sail with a valid boat registration on board.
If a make a boat registration request, can i decide myself what will be my homeport?
Yes and no. Every type of registration offers a pre-selected list of homeports from which you can pick one of your choice. It is not possible to select a homeport which is not in the list.
Can your boat registrations be used around the globe?
Yes. You can use all of our registrations around the globe. However, when you will sail outside the European Union we strongly advise you to make choice of a boat registration which provides a nationality (Title) to your boat. The Dutch EU ICP Light Registration does not offer a nationality to your boat and is a ownership registration.
Does the EU ICP Light Registration also include registration in the Dutch Cadastre?
No. The EU ICP Light Registration does not include registration in the Dutch Cadastre. If this is mandatory we advise you to select the Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration.
How can Yacht Registration Holland prices be much more attractive in comparison with boat registration prices from other company’s?
That is because we are only specialized in boat registrations! As our volume on a yearly base is the highest in the market we are able to work highly efficient!
What are microdots?
Microdots are a unique way of identifying your yacht no matter where in the world it may end up in the event that it is stolen. They are invisible to criminals but can be detected by authorities. You can request a discount on your premium from your insurance company if you are making use of microdots.
Does the EU ICP Light Registrations have any limitations of sail area / distance from shore?
No. The EU ICP Light Registration does not have any limitations in sail area / distance from shore!
Can the registration documents help in the return of the yacht in the event that it gets stolen?
Yes. Because the yacht is officially registered the chance that the yacht will be identified by the international police authorities became a lot bigger. With the Worldwide Zeebrief Registration you also benefit from the application of microdots on the yacht (optional). This is a unique and effective way to uniquely identify your boat.
Why is it important to have my boat registered?
A boat registration is considered to be the “passport” of your yacht! Most countries in the world will require that a boat has been registered when it enters their waters. Also a boat registration is often mandatory to make use of a marina or if you want to have a boat insurance. Also when traveling internationally it is important that you can proof authorities and the coats guard who is the registered owner of a boat! It is important to choose a boat registration with a good international “reputation”. If you choose a boat registration with a poor reputation this will often result in a lot of checks and delays with the nautical authorities and border police.
Is it possible to register a home-built boat?
Yes, that is possible. But you have to provide us with the invoices of the main elements of the boat like hull, engine, mast, etc. Also we need some pictures of the construction of the boat and a tonnage certificate.
Can i register a yacht when it is not yet fully build?
Yes, that is possible. For this we need to receive a Builders Certificate with all details of manufacturer, boat owner and boat and engine details.
Does the UK Limited company have any administrative obligations?
Yes, but we will arrange all for you so there is nothing you have to think about yourself! A dormant (sleeping) UK Limited company needs to file it’s yearly accounts and file it’s confirmation statements. Also it needs a mandatory statutory address in the UK and has several fees to be paid. All fees and taxes are covered in the yearly invoice we send you to cover all costs to keep the company in good standing! There are no additional costs next to the yearly costs.
Is the UK or Irish Limited company 100% in my ownership?
Yes! You will be the sole shareholder and director of the company. In Ireland a director needs to be a EU citizen. In that case you can appoint a friend or family to be a director in your case. In the case you do not have a friend or family who can be the statutory director we can request our Irish partner company to appoint a director in your place. This is possible at additional costs. But this does not change your company’s ownership in any way!
I am not a EU citizen. Can i make a boat registration in the European Union?
Yes! (except for Poland as it accepts any passport from any country) But to realize that we first have to create for you a simple “workaround” to make that possible. First we will create for you a dormant (sleeping) Limited company for which you are the only shareholder and director. Once this is completed you can create a new bill of sale on name of your new company. Then you are ready to make any boat registration in the European Union which we offer. We have done this construction already for thousands of boat owners!
Can the EU ICP Light Registration be used for commercial boat registrations?
No, the EU ICP Light Registrations is only suitable for pleasure boat registrations.
Can we always update the radio license with new equipment or removed equipment?
Yes and no, we can update the Dutch radio license at any moment. Most of the time the update will be ready the same day. To request us the update we need to receive a email with the old and new radio license details. To update a radio license there are additional costs. For the UK radio license we can update the equipment and emergency contact only. For the Polish radio license we can not make any updates at all.
Can i make changes in a boat registration after you have arranged the registration documents for us?
Yes that is possible. When for example a new engine will be installed in the boat it is important that the boat registration documents will be updated. For this you can send us a email with all old and new boat details. Based upon the type of registration we might request you to send us back the original registration document which we need to make the update. There are additional costs for a update of a registration.
Do i have to keep the registration documents of my boat on board?
Yes, you always have to keep the registration documents of your boat on board. The authorities can ask you on any moment to present it to them. Not having these important documents on board can result in serious penalties or the ban on the boat from leaving the marina or country.
Do i have to mark my boat with the homeport of my registration?
Yes, it is normal that you mark your boat with the homeport of your registration. Also it is many times required by the local nautical authorities in your sailing area.
Do i need to mark my boat with the registration number?
Yes, it is normal that you mark your boat with the provided registration number. Also it is many times required by the local nautical authorities in your sailing area.
Can the Polish EU Flag Registration be used for commercial boat registration?
Yes, the Polish EU Flag Registration is very suitable for commercial registrations. We consider it the most attractive commercial boat registration in the European Union. Boats under 15 meters do not even have the need for a safety certificate.
Can the UK Part 1 Boat Registration be used for commercial boat registration?
Yes, the UK Part 1 boat registration is very suitable for commercial boat registration!
Can the Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration be used for commercial boat registration?
No, the Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration is only suitable for pleasure boat registrations!
How long will the “Ultra Fast Procedure” take for the UK Part 1 Registration?
The “Ultra Fast” procedure for the UK Part 1 Registration is just around 3 working days.
The normal procedure takes around 3-4 weeks to complete.
Can you also register a boat which is owned by a company?
Yes, but this needs to be a EU company. Most used type of company is the Limited company. We can arrange an Irish or UK company for you. For this you can make a request on our website https://yachtregistration.company. Of course you are free to use any other type of EU company you want. In such case you have to provide English translations of the company documents.
Why do i have to sign a “Power of Attorney” document?
We have to proof the nautical authorities that the boat owner has provided us with a power of attorney to represent him in the matter of the registration of his boat / yacht. For this we provide you with a standard “Power of Attorney” document which needs to be signed and which we have to provide to the nautical authorities.
Which kind of boats / vessels do you register?
We register any kind of pleasure and commercial pleasure yachts. Also jet ski’s. We do not registers any other type of professional vessels like cargo, professional fishing boats and passenger vessels. It is of course no problem at all to register your pleasure boat which is being used for sport fishing!
Which documents i need to make a Polish EU Flag Registration?
To make a Polish EU Flag Registration we need from you a copy of your valid passport / ID. If the boat is owned by a company we need the company documents and a copy of the valid passport of the director of the company. Also we need the original bill of sale / sales agreement or a notarized copy of it, proof of the dimensions of the boat (CE certificate, Builders certificate, Tonnage certificate, survey report or the boat manual)(one of these documents), Next we need a proof that the previous boat registration has been cancelled and a signed “Registration Authorization” which will be provided by us. As Poland accepts any passports of any country in the world we do not need to create a company first.
Which documents i need to make a UK Part 1 boat registration?
To make a UK Part 1 boat registration we need a valid dormant (sleeping) UK company which we have created for you, scanned copy of a valid passport / ID, proof of title of the last 5 years (who were the boat owners the last 5 years), tonnage & measurement certificate which is issued by a surveyor from the approved list (https://www.yachtregistration.company/find-a-uk-approved-surveyor-near-you/#uk_part_1), bill of sale on name of the UK Limited company (we will provide one to you), proof of cancellation of the yachts previous registration. If the boat is over 24 meters we need also a ITC 69 tonnage certificate instead of the normal Tonnage & Measurement certificate. Next to that we also need a signed “Registration Authorization” which will be provided by us.
Which documents i need to make a Dutch Worldwide Zeebrief Registration?
To make a Worldwide Zeebrief Registration we need a notarized passport of the yacht owner and a signed and stamped bill of sale. If a yacht is owned by EU company we also need the company documents and a notarized passport of the company’s director. Next to that you also have to sign the registration authorization which we provide to you. If the yacht is over 24 meters the yacht owner also has to provide a tonnage certificate issued by a classification bureau which has an office in The Netherlands like Lloyds, Veritas, Rina, etc. Next to that we also need a signed “Registration Authorization” which will be provided by us.