Malta has surpassed 10,000 registered vessels as of Q1 2025, consolidating its position as Europe’s largest ship registry and the sixth largest in the world. The country also leads globally in the registration of superyachts, reflecting its ongoing success as a maritime hub of choice.

Building on this momentum, Malta is launching a major digitalisation initiative aimed at streamlining operations and increasing international competitiveness. As of 1st June 2025, Transport Malta will issue electronic certificates (e-certificates) to owners of ships and yachts registered under the Maltese flag. The initiative marks a significant shift toward a more efficient and secure maritime registration framework.

Announcing the change, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett said the digital transition reflects the sector’s evolving needs.

“This step makes us more competitive in a maritime industry that demands greater efficiency, transparency and accessibility,” he said. “We are modernising without compromising the security of sensitive information. These digital certificates will incorporate QR codes and other advanced security technologies.”

The e-certification system is fully aligned with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and is designed to provide high verifiability and convenience for ship and yacht owners. Documents will be delivered electronically, reducing administrative overhead and eliminating the need for in-person visits to Transport Malta offices.

Transport Malta CEO Kurt Farrugia described the project as a natural extension of digital upgrades that began in 2021. “We’ve already issued more than 93,000 digital documents for seafarers. Expanding this to vessels ensures Malta remains at the forefront of maritime regulation while continuing to meet international compliance requirements.”

The digitalisation drive reinforces Malta’s attractiveness as a jurisdiction for maritime investment. In 2024 alone, the Maltese Ship Register grew by nearly 10 per cent, reflecting the trust placed in the country’s maritime infrastructure and governance. The upcoming shift to e-certificates further enhances Malta’s value proposition – offering a stable, transparent, and forward-looking environment for international shipping and yacht ownership.

With continued record-breaking growth and a proactive approach to innovation, Malta’s maritime registry is setting new benchmarks for service quality, regulatory alignment, and technological integration.