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Panama (469) Cl

The document outlines the national administration requirements for Panama, detailing various maritime regulations, authorizations, and contact information for relevant authorities. It includes a comprehensive list of conventions, certificates, and their corresponding authorization levels. Additionally, it provides contact details for key personnel and offices within the Panama Maritime Authority for various maritime services and inquiries.

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Juan
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
46 views77 pages

Panama (469) Cl

The document outlines the national administration requirements for Panama, detailing various maritime regulations, authorizations, and contact information for relevant authorities. It includes a comprehensive list of conventions, certificates, and their corresponding authorization levels. Additionally, it provides contact details for key personnel and offices within the Panama Maritime Authority for various maritime services and inquiries.

Uploaded by

Juan
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

National Administration

Requirements

PANAMA

19-Dec-2025
PANAMA

Contents
06 Aug 2024 Authorisations Table Key 29 Nov 2023 Stability
05 Aug 2024 Authorisations 10 Sep 2024 Loadline
19 Dec 2025 Certification General 16 Jul 2024 Tonnage
23 Oct 2024 Reporting General 19 Dec 2025 MARPOL Annex I
24 Sep 2025 Exemptions, Equivalents, 10 Oct 2025 MARPOL Annex II
Alternative Arrangements, 19 May 2023 LHNS Guidelines - IMO Resolution
Waivers, Extensions of Certificates A.673(16)
19 Dec 2025 Unified Interpretations (IMO and 29 Nov 2023 MARPOL Annex IV
IACS) 19 May 2023 MARPOL Annex V
19 Dec 2025 Change of Flag and/or Transfer of 10 Oct 2025 MARPOL Annex VI
Class
10 Oct 2025 NOx Code
04 Sep 2025 Port State Control
22 May 2024 Anti Fouling Systems
10 Oct 2025 Requirements General
19 Dec 2025 Ballast Water Management
02 Dec 2025 SAFCON
04 Sep 2025 Fishing Vessels
02 Dec 2025 Onboard Lifting Appliances and
14 Aug 2025 Ships below convention size
Anchor Handling Winches
26 Aug 2025 Crew Accommodation (ILO 92 &
23 Oct 2025 Safety Equipment
133)
15 May 2025 Radio
19 Dec 2025 Maritime Labour Convention
14 Nov 2024 Passenger
29 Nov 2023 Yacht Code
01 Feb 2024 ISM Code
01 Feb 2024 National regulations
19 Dec 2025 ISPS Code
19 May 2023 Polar Code
29 Nov 2023 Chemical Codes
17 Jan 2025 OSV Chemical Code (A.1122(30))
01 Feb 2024 Gas Codes
19 May 2023 Dynamic Positioning System
12 Aug 2025 IMSBC Code
19 Dec 2025 Ship Recycling
29 Nov 2023 Carriage of Dangerous Goods
19 May 2023 Work in Fishing (ILO 188)
19 May 2023 Cargo Securing Manuals
19 May 2023 Passenger Yacht Code
24 Sep 2025 MODU Code
13 Jun 2024 Special Purpose Ship Code
19 Jun 2024 Industrial Personnel Code (IP
Code)
19 May 2023 High Speed Craft Code
19 May 2023 Diving Systems Code

19 December 2025 1 of 75
PANAMA

Country title and contact details

Country Title
The Republic of Panama

Contact Details
Title: Tel: +1 (212) 8696440
Panama Maritime Authority
[Link]
Address:
The main contact for Recognised Organisation
is: Eng. Jose A. De Gracia B

Email: ro-panama@[Link]
Tel: +507 501 5351.

Panama Maritime Authority, International


Office-Miami

One Biscayne Boulevard Miami

Florida 33131 - USA

Alternative Address
Refer to Merchant Marine Notice MMN-18/2021 (April 2025) for SEGUMAR offices contact points with 24/7
coverage.

For Crew Accommodation matters, please contact LR Balboa.

Panama Maritime Authority

Physical and Courier Address (all original applications and documentation in hard copy must be
sent to the following address for air courier purposes):

Panama Maritime Authority

Pan Canal Building

Omar Torrijos Herrera Ave.

Floor 4th, Office No. 404

Segumar Office
19 December 2025 2 of 75
PANAMA

Albrook, Panama City

Panama

Tel.: +507 501 5050


Tel.: +507 501 5000 Central

Mailing Address (for regular mail):

Panama Maritime Authority

Panama Segumar Office

PO Box 00533, Balboa

Ancon 0843, Panama

Republic of Panama

Contact Tel. Fax


Director +507 501 5006 +507 501 5007
Deputy Director +507 501 5010 +507 501 5011
Maritime Security +507 501 5033/5032 +507 501 5083
PSC & ASI +507 501 5033/5032 +507 501 5083

Directorate General of Merchant Marine

Eng. Rafael Cigarruista

Dirección General de Marina Mercante, Autoridad Marítima de Panamá


Tel.: +507 501-5007
Email: rcigarruista@[Link]

Directorate General of Seafarers

PanCanal Plaza Building Avenida Omar Torrijos Herrera Albrook

Corregimiento de Ancon, Panama,

Republic of Panama

Capt. Juan Maltez , Director of Seafarers

Tel: +507 501 5049/5052


Fax: +507 501 5047
Email: jmaltez@[Link]

Maritime Security Department

19 December 2025 3 of 75
PANAMA

Mrs. Nyxkhari Ardila, Chief of Maritime Ships Security Department

Directorate of Merchant Marine, Panama Maritime Authority


Tel.: +507 501-5037 / 5256
Email: nardila@[Link]

List of Notices

Merchant Marine Circulars can be found at Circulars.


Maritime Security can be found at Maritime Security.

The Panama Office address should be used for all communications unless stated otherwise in the
country file or advised by the Administration.

CHIEF OF SEGUMAR PANAMA OFFICE

(for any assistance, consultants or, any additional information)

Rina Berrocal Husband, Head of SEGUMAR Offices

Directorate of Merchant Marine, Panama Maritime Authority


Tel: +507 501 5348
Email: rberrocal@[Link]
Web: Panama Ship Registry

Fidel Gonzalez F., Deputy Chief Segumar Panama

Tel.: +507 501 5350


Email: deputychief@[Link]

Duty Technical Supervisor (24 Hrs)

Tel: +507 501 5353

ADMINISTRATIVE SECTION

Tel.: +507 501 5355 (Reception)


Tel.: +507 501 5357
Tel.: +507 501 5360

For ISM Declarations for Company and Declaration of Designated Person endorsement, SMC + DOC
Certificate + interim extension, Multiple Flag DOC authorization, Consulting on technical matters regarding
ISM.

E: fullterm@[Link]
T: +507 501 5352

For the endorsement of the International Tonnage Certificate and the issuance of the National Tonnage
Certificate (vessels under 500 GRT), Simplified Measurement (vessels less than 24
meters), and International Tonnage Certificate re-issuance.

E: itc@[Link]
19 December 2025 4 of 75
PANAMA

T: +507 501 5356

For the issuance of the Minimum Safe Manning Certificate, Consulting on technical matters related to
Minimum Safe Manning, Single voyage MSM Authorizations, Extra Crew Authorizations.

E: msm@[Link]
T: +507 501-5358

SEGUMAR Houston, USA - specialised office to assist the mobile offshore units registered under Panama
flag.

E: Offshore@[Link]
T: (1) (713) 622 4459
M: (1) (346) 213 2306

For the request of the exemption certificates for SOLAS, MARPOL, COLREG, LOAD LINE, IBC (applications,
evaluations and issuance), interim Exemptions authorisations, Equivalents, Alternative Design &
Arrangements (preliminary authorisation).

E: exemptions@[Link]
T: +507 501 5359

For authorizations requested by the vessel's owners/operators or LR regarding approval endorsement for
table rate of discharge of untreated sewage, International Convention general consultation, single voyage
authorisation, Administration interpretations.

E: authorizations@[Link]
T: +507 501 5350
T: +507 501 5361

For authorizations requested by owners/operators or Recognized Organizations regarding malfunctioning of


equipment (lifeboat, rescue boat, OWS, ODME, radar, echo sounder, speed log, GMDSS, VDR/SVDR,
Inmarsat, Anchor lost, among others), authorizations to issue Conditional statutory certificates (must be
requested directly by LR).

E: conditionals@[Link]
T: +507 501 5362
T: +507 501 5361

For authorizations regarding drydock extensions, statutory certificates extensions, equipment service
extensions (EEBD, fire extinguishers, CO2, liferaft, lifeboat, AIS, EPIRB, VDR/S-VDR).

E: extensions@[Link]
T: +507 501 5362

All subjects related to service providers, Certificate of Approval as Authorized Service Provider, evaluation for
renewal of approval, cases of exceptional circumstances.

E: sproviders@[Link]
T: +507 501 5352

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PANAMA

All subjects related to the IMO data collection system (DCS) and the Statement of Compliance with IMO data
collection system.

E: Imo-dcs@[Link]
T: +507 501 5354

All subjects related to ship recycling and the Statement of Compliance on Inventory of Hazardous Materials.

E: Srr-ihm@[Link]

All subjects related to the International Ballast Water Management Certificate, endorsement updating and
Ballast Water Management Convention inquiries and authorisations.

E: ibwmc@[Link]
T: +507 501 5090

All subjects related to the Ballast Water Management Plan Approval and Ballast Water Management
Convention inquiries and authorisations.

E: bwmp@[Link]
T: +507 501 5360

All subjects related to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), DMLC Part I, MLC 2006 exemptions (Title 3),
MLC 2006 dispensations and certificates extensions.

E: mlc@[Link]
T: +507 501 4241

For Contact details regardinig Port State Control matters, please see Port State Control section.

Plans, which require approval by the Panama Canal Authorities, should be sent to the following address:

Panama Canal Authority

P.O. Box 526726

Miami, FL 33152-6725

USA

Panama Segumar Global Offices

Americas

SEGUMAR Panama extensions@[Link], conditionals@[Link],


authorizations@[Link]
SEGUMAR Miami, USA [Link]@[Link], fmarmol@[Link]
SEGUMAR Houston, USA offshore@[Link]

Asia

SEGUMAR Tokyo, Japan segumar@[Link]

19 December 2025 6 of 75
PANAMA

SEGUMAR Imabari, Japan segumar@[Link]


SEGUMAR Seoul, South Korea segumarseoul@[Link]
SEGUMAR Busan, South Korea segumarbusan@[Link]
SEGUMAR Singapore [Link]@[Link]
SEGUMAR Manila, Philippines [Link]@[Link]
SEGUMAR Shanghai, China [Link]@[Link]
SEGUMAR Hong Kong, SAR hongkong@[Link]

Europe

SEGUMAR Piraeus, Greece segumarpg@[Link]


SEGUMAR Istanbul, Turkey segumarist@[Link]
SEGUMAR London, UK [Link]@[Link]

Middle East

SEGUMAR Dubai, UAE [Link]@[Link]

LR Flag Representative
Primary Flag Rep:

Juan Pedro Strahm

M: +593 998063149
T: +59345118535
E: [Link]@[Link]

Local Contact person:

Andres Anzola Ruiz

M: +50766713633
T: +5072112711
E: [Link]@[Link]

19 December 2025 7 of 75
PANAMA

Conventions
SOLAS 74/88 MARPOL I 78 MARPOL II 78

MARPOL III 78 MARPOL IV 78 MARPOL V 78

MARPOL VI 97 LOADLINE 66/88 TONNAGE 69

COLREG 72 STCW 78 AFS 01

BWM 04 ILO MLC HK 09

Harmonized System of Surveys and Certification: Fully implemented

Authorisations Table Keyㅤㅤ


Authorisation Levels

Short Name Authorisation Type Description


F Full LR is fully authorised to carry out all plan review, plan approval, surveys, inspections and
audits, and issue certification on behalf of the Administration (Flag) for that survey type.
P Partial LR is partially authorised to carry out some plan review and approval, surveys, inspections
and audits, and issue certification for that survey type, but the Administration (Flag) will carry
out some plan review/approval, surveys and issuance of certification themselves. Details will
be provided under the technical requirements under relevant section(s).
L LR LR may carry out all plan review/approval, surveys, inspections and audits, but only issue
Statements of Compliance rather than a full convention certificate. In each case the relevant
section to the particular survey type must be consulted to verify whether the Administration
(Flag) permits LR to issue the Statement of Compliance on behalf of the Flag State or only on
behalf of LR.
C Case-by-Case LR must receive approval from the Administration to carry out any work on behalf of the
Administration (Flag) prior to commencing work. If a certificate is to be issued on behalf of the
Flag as part of the case-by-case authorisation, the Administration are to confirm which
certificate they wish LR to issue on their behalf.
N Not Authorised LR cannot carry out any work on behalf of the Flag State.
- Not applicable NA

Survey Cycle Type

Short Name Survey Cycle Type


IRM Interim
INL Initial
ANN Annual
ITD Intermediate
19 December 2025 8 of 75
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PER Periodical
REN Renewal
GEX General Examination
ADD Additional

Authorisations
Standard Authorisation
Instrument Survey Type
Interim Initial Annual Intermediate Periodical Renewal General Examination Additional

SAFCON
Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate - F F F - F - -
Safety Equipment
Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate - F F F - F - -
Radio
Cargo Ship Radio Safety Certificate - F - - F F - -
Passenger

Passenger Ship Safety Certificate - F - - - F - -


ISM Code

Safety Management Certificate - F - F - F - P


Document of Compliance - F F - - F - P
Interim Safety Management Certificate F - - - - - - -
Interim Document of Compliance F - - - - - - -
ISPS Code
International Ship Security Certificate - P - F - F - P
Interim International Ship Security F - - - - - - -
Certificate
Chemical Codes

International Certificate of Fitness for the - F F F - F - -


Carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk
(IBC Code)
Gas Codes

International Certificate of Fitness for the - F F F - F - -


Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC
Code)

IMSBC Code
Carriage of Solid Bulk Cargoes Certificate of - L L - - L - -
Compliance (IMSBC Code (All))

Carriage of Solid Bulk Cargoes Certificate of - L - - - L - -


Compliance (IMSBC Code (A&C))
Carriage of Dangerous Goods
19 December 2025 9 of 75
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Standard Authorisation
Instrument Survey Type
Interim Initial Annual Intermediate Periodical Renewal General Examination Additional

Document of Compliance Special - F F - - F - -


Requirements for Ships Carrying
Dangerous Goods (Cargo Ships)

Document of Compliance Special - F - - - F - -


Requirements for Ships Carrying
Dangerous Goods (Passenger Ships)
Cargo Securing Manuals

Cargo Securing Manuals - - - - - - F -


MODU Code

Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Safety - F F F - F - -


Certificate (MODU Code 1979)
Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Safety - F F F - F - -
Certificate (MODU Code 1989)

Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Safety - F F F - F - -


Certificate (MODU Code 2009)

Special Purpose Ship Codes


Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificate - F F - F F - -
(Res. A.534(13))

Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificate - F F - F F - -


(SPS Code 2008)
Industrial Personnel Code

Industrial Personnel Safety Certificate - F F F F F - -


High Speed Craft Code

Dynamically Supported Craft Construction - - - - - - C -


and Equipment Certificate (DSC Code)
High Speed Craft Safety Certificate (HSC - F - - F F - -
Code 1994)

High Speed Craft Safety Certificate (HSC - F - - F F - -


Code 2000)
Diving Systems Code

Diving Systems Safety Certificate (1995 - L L - - L - -


Code of Safety for Diving Systems)
Stability

Intact Stability - F - - - - - -
Document of Authorisation to Load Grain - F - - - - - -
(Grain Code)

Loadline
International Load Line Certificate - F F - - F - -
Tonnage

19 December 2025 10 of 75
PANAMA

Standard Authorisation
Instrument Survey Type
Interim Initial Annual Intermediate Periodical Renewal General Examination Additional

International Tonnage Certificate - F - - - - - -


MARPOL Annex I

International Oil Pollution Prevention - F F F - F - -


Certificate (non-tankers)
International Oil Pollution Prevention - F F F - F - -
Certificate (tankers)

MARPOL Annex II
International Pollution Prevention Certificate - F F F - F - -
for the Carriage of Noxious Liquid
Substances in Bulk

LHNS Guidelines - IMO Resolution


A.673(16)

Certificate of Fitness (LHNS Guidelines) - C C C - C - -


MARPOL Annex IV
International Sewage Pollution Prevention - F - - - F - -
Certificate
MARPOL Annex V
Statement of Conformance - MARPOL - L - - - - - -
Annex V
MARPOL Annex VI
International Air Pollution Prevention - F F F - F - -
Certificate
Engine International Air Pollution Prevention - F - - - - - -
Certificate (1997 NOx Code)

Engine International Air Pollution Prevention - F - - - - - -


Certificate (2008 NOx Code)
International Energy Efficiency Certificate - F - - - - - -
Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil - - - - - - P -
Consumption Reporting & Operational CII
Rating
Anti Fouling Systems

International Anti Fouling System Certificate - F - - - F - -


Ballast Water Management

International Ballast Water Management - P F F - P - -


Certificate
Fishing Vessels

International Fishing Vessel Safety - L - L L L - -


Certificate (Torremolinos)
Ships below convention size

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Standard Authorisation
Instrument Survey Type
Interim Initial Annual Intermediate Periodical Renewal General Examination Additional

Ships below convention size - F - - F F - -


Crew Accommodation (ILO 92 & 133)
Certificate of Compliance for Crew - L - - - - - -
Accommodation

Maritime Labour Convention


Maritime Labour Certificate - F - F - F - F
Interim Maritime Labour Certificate F - - - - - - -
Lifting Appliances (ILO 152)
Certificate of Test and Thorough - L L - - L - -
Examination of Lifting Appliances (LA2)
Yacht Code
Yacht Code - Certificate of Compliance - C C C - C - -
Polar Code
Polar Ship Certificate (Cargo Ships) - F F - - F - -
Polar Ship Certificate (Passenger Ships) - F - - - F - -
OSV Chemical Code (A.1122(30))
Certificate of Fitness (OSV Chemical Code) - C C C - C - -
Dynamic Positioning System
Flag State Verification and Acceptance - C C C - C - -
Document (MSC/Circ.645)
Dynamic Positioning Verification - C C C - C - -
Acceptance Document (MSC.1/Circ. 1580))

Ship Recycling
International Certificate on Inventory of - P - - - P - -
Hazardous Materials (Hong Kong
Convention)
Certificate on the Inventory of Hazardous - P - - - P - -
Materials (EU) (Reg. 1257/2013)
Interim International Ready for Recycling - - - - - - P -
Certificate

Work in Fishing (ILO 188)


Document of Compliance with the Work in - N - - - N - -
Fishing Convention, 2007
Passenger Yacht Code
Passenger Yacht Code - Certificate of - N - - - N - -
Compliance

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Certification Generalㅤㅤ
At change of flag to Panama, conditional certificates may only be issued if authorised by the Panama
Maritime Authority.

Refer to MMC-71 (Oct 2023) for the list of documents required to be kept on board (where not
otherwise exempt).
See MMC-156 (April 2024) for Exemption, Conditional, Interim and Full-Term Certificates requirements.

Conditional Certificates

If LR determines that the condition of a ship or its equipment does not comply with the requirements of an
International Convention, the Administration may authorise LR, if it has issued the vessel's statutory
certificate, to issue a Conditional Certificate, provided that the ship is fit to proceed to sea without harm to the
ship, persons on board, or without presenting unreasonable harm to the marine environment. This will allow
the ship to proceed to a port where the necessary repairs may be carried out. LR is to immediately ensure
that corrective action will be taken and is, in due course, to notify the Administration. Evidence of the
corrective actions taken, may include, but are not limited to: survey reports, re-issued certificate, or a formal
notification in written If such corrective action is not taken before the expiration date of the Conditional
Certificate, the Certificate is to be withdrawn and the Administration notified immediately.

In cases were a certificate loses its validity due to overdue annual or intermediate endorsements an
authorisation to issue a Conditional Certificate may be requested from the Administration via Segumar
Offices, as a transitional measure until the correspondent revalidation surveys are carried out and
new certificates is issued.

A Conditional Certificate is NOT to be issued without obtaining authorisation from a Segumar Office.
Requests must be made for each vessel separately and must include:

1. Reasons to issue a conditional certificate.


2. Copy of the current statutory certificate, available onboard, relevant to the conditional certificate.

The validity of a Conditional Certificate must not exceed 90 days. This Administration will not authorize the
extension or re-issuance of such Conditional Certificates, and will not authorize extensions of statutory
certificates exceeding ninety days. In exceptional circumstances and a previous comprehensive evaluation by
Segumar Offices, it might consider granting longer validity periods of Conditional Certificates, either the
extension or re-issuance of existing conditional certificates.

Interim Certificates

When a vessel or Company has been found to comply with all the requirements of an International
Convention or Code (except ISPS Code) and the additional requirements of this Administration, after the
correspondent surveys or audits (initial or renewal), LR may issue an Interim Certificate, as a transitional
measure until the correspondent Full Term Certificate is issued and placed on board. The validity of this
Interim Certificate must not exceed five (5) months from the survey completion date.

For certificates issued by virtue of the ISPS Code please refer to MMC 359 (Rev. Aug 2025), and for
certificates issued by virtue of the MLC 2006 please refer to MMC 269 (Rev. March 2025). Please see ISPS

19 December 2025 13 of 75
PANAMA

Code and Maritime Labour Convention sections.

Port of registry on all statutory certificates

The port of registry on all statutory certificates is to be Panama, notwithstanding that the provisional Patente
(Registration) may show a port such as Balboa or Colon.

Administrative Fees

The Administration require that Administrative Fees are paid related to the issuance of technical documents,
statutory certificates, endorsements and approvals. Further information can be found on Merchant Marine
Circular MMC-324 (December 2023).

LR is required to reimburse the Panamanian Authorities at quarterly intervals, and settlement of these
surcharges will normally be made by LR North America Inc., who will debit the CFO as appropriate. The CFO
should apply this debit against the balance in their 2865-8014 account, when instructed by LRNA, Inc. MMC-
219 (January 2023) requires LR to include an additional USD 50 to cover the wire transfer charges on each
payment made to the flag.

For each technical documents, statutory certificates issued, endorsements and approvals by LR, the following
fees have been established as per Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023):

A fee of US $100 is payable for each statutory or technical initial and renewal full term certificate issued
or reissued (except where the certificate has been reissued due to an LR error) by LR on behalf of the
Administration, including certificates issued as a result of a change of name or any other change in the
particulars of the certificate.

1. Passenger Ship Safety Certificate (PS-SOLAS).


2. Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate (SC-SOLAS).
3. Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate (SE-SOLAS).
4. Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate (SR-SOLAS).
5. International Load Line Certificate (ILLC).
6. Document of Authorization for the Carriage of Grain (GRAIN).
7. International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP-Annex I, MARPOL).
8. Interim Document of Compliance with the Condition Assessment Scheme Plan (CAS-Annex I,
MARPOL).
9. International Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate (ISPP-Annex IV, MARPOL).
10. International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (IAPP-Annex VI, MARPOL).
11. Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (NOx – EIAPP).
12. International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC).
13. Confirmation of Compliance (SEEMP Part II and SEEMP Part III).
14. International Antifouling System Certificate (AFS).
15. Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk (GC).
16. International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC).
17. Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (BCH).
18. International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC).
19. Document of Compliance (DOC-ISM).
20. Safety Management Certificate (SMC-ISM).

19 December 2025 14 of 75
PANAMA

21. Document of Compliance with the Special Requirements for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods (DOC-
IMDG).
22. Ship Safety Certificate for Fishing Vessels with 24mt of Length or more (FISVEL).
23. Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Safety Certificate (MODU) (’79, ’89, ’09).
24. Mobile Offshore Unit Safety Certificate (MOU).
25. Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC).
26. Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificate (SPS) ('83, '08).
27. International Pollution Prevention Certificate for the Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk
(NLS-Annex II, MARPOL).
28. High Speed Craft Safety Certificate (HSC).
29. International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Certificate (IMSBC).
30. Caribbean Cargo Ship Safety Certificate, vessels under 500 GT (CCSSC).
31. Safety Certificate for Pleasure Vessels (PLECE).
32. Polar Ship Certificate.
33. International Certificate of Fitness to transport cargo from CNI.
34. Safety Certificate for Nuclear Cargo Ship.
35. Safety Certificate for Nuclear Passenger Ship.
36. REG Yacht Code Certificate (REG Yacht Code Part A and B).
37. Passenger (Yacht) Safety Certificate and its form P (REG Yacht Code Part B).
38. Conditional Certificates, previously authorized by SEGUMAR office (as defined in MMC-156).

Important Notes:

1. The issuance of an Interim International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials and/or Interim
International Ready for Recycling Certificate by LR does not require the payment of additional flag fees
surcharge as per MMC-324 via LR to the Administration, as instructed by the Administration.
2. See Ship Recycling section for further details regarding certification Fees when ship owners/operators
are applying for Full-Term Certificates (ICIHM and RfRC) which is to be paid directly to the
Administration and payment confirmation (official receipt issued by the Administration) to be uploaded
to the Administration's E-Segumar online system.

A fee of US $75 is payable for the endorsements done by LR for the aforementioned certificates, when
applicable, and for the following certificates listed below without limitations:

1. Endorsement for Intermediate Verification of the International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC).
2. Endorsement for Annual and Intermediate Verification of the International Ballast Water Management
Certificate.
3. Endorsement for the Intermediate Verification of the Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC).
4. Endorsement of the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance - Part II.

A fee of US $75 is payable for the approval, issuance, reissuance (for any of its reasons),
endorsement, of the booklets, plans or manuals by LR detailed in the following non-exhaustive list,
without limitations:

1. Cargo Securing Manual.


2. Cargo Securing Manual (IMDG).
3. Grain Loading Manual.
4. Intact Stability Booklet
19 December 2025 15 of 75
PANAMA

5. Damage control plans and booklets


6. Fire control plan/booklet.
7. Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP).
8. Garbage Management Plan.
9. Technical File - NOx Technical Code.
10. Ship Security Plan.
11. Oil Discharge Monitoring and Control (ODMC) Operational Manual.
12. Ship Structure Access Manual.
13. Bulk Carrier Booklet.
14. Search and rescue cooperation plan.
15. Ship To Ship Operation Plan
16. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Management Plan.
17. Procedures and Arrangements Manual.
18. Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan for Noxious Liquid Substances (SMPEP).
19. Operation Manual for Nuclear Ships.
20. Shipboard Emergency Plan – INF.
21. Plan Approvals, Manuals and Booklets related to the Statutory Certificates.
22. Enhance Survey Programme (ESP)
23. Any other document.*

* All the plans, manual and/or booklets approved on behalf of the Administration, are included in this point.

A fee of US $500 is payable for each Alternative Design and Arrangements (AD&A)** done for each
vessel by LR.

** Shall be reported as per paragraph 4 and 5 of the Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023).

For each of the listed below technical documents, statutory certificates issued, endorsed by LR, the following
fees have been established as per Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023):

A fee of US $150 is payable for the Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting and
Operational Carbon Intensity Rating (MARPOL, Annex VI)***

*** Reported as per paragraph 4 of the Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023), in case it's
requested by the Recognized Organization dedicated on providing the service of data collection and
verification on fuel oil consumption and the Operational Carbon Intensity Indicator CII.

Fees**** for Tonnage Certificate (ITC) are imposed in accordance with the following scale:

GRT Fee US $

0-49 50

50-299 75

300-499 100

500-999 150

1000-4999 250
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5000-9999 300

10000-14999 400

15000 and over 500

1. In the case of sister ships, a 50% discount is to be applied to the fee of the second or succeeding
vessels, as long as the full fee was paid for the first vessel. However, the fee will never be less than US
$50.00.
2. The basic fee shall be applicable in full with the issuance of every Tonnage Certificate. However, when
a Tonnage Certificate is issued in duplicate forms, one each, Spanish and English languages, the fee
shall be paid for only one of the forms.

**** For ITC 69 Certificate issuance related Flag Fee surchrges (as elaborate above), the payment is NOT
COLLECTED BY LR and the payment is to be made DIRECTLY BY THE CLIENT TO SEGUMAR. the
process of certificate issuance is as follows:

1. LR issues short term ITC69 valid for 6 months to the vessel.


2. LR drafts a request for full-term ITC69 (with all associated information and documentation/evidence
attached) and sends it to Panama flag (Segumar) for review/issuance for full-term ITC69.
3. Panama reviews the information and send the invoice to the client (which can be through LR).
4. Client pays directly to Segumar. LR does not facilitate nor verify the completion of the payment.
5. Panama issues the full-term ITC69 (in paper) and sends it to LR for forwarding to the client.

As per the Merchant Marine Circular MMC-396 (March 2022), the fees for the issuance of the Certificate of
Inspection of Crew Accommodation (CICA) are as follows:

No. of Crew members Initial Successive or Renewal Duplicate

Until 15 US $150 US $90 US $90

From 16 to 50 US $200 US $100 US $100

From 51 to 150 US $300 US $150 US $150

From 151 onwards US $450 US $200 US $200

These fees for the issuance of the CICA are paid in addition to the LR fees for the survey. LR charges the
client directly for these fees, which are then paid to the Administration. The client should not be charged at the
time of the survey - the charge will be made by LR once the full term certificate is endorsed. The Panamanian
surcharge is to be shown as a separate item on the invoice to the owner, as described above.

If an owner/operator requests an ILO waiver or exemption, a fee of US $125 is to be charged.


The Administration is to be paid this amount and then the Owner is to be invoiced in accordance with the
instructions above.

Quarterly payments must be sent every three (3) months to PANAMA MARITIME AUTHORITY international
bank account and notification to be sent to quarterlyreport@[Link]. The official receipt of payment
request shall be sent to quarterlyreport@[Link]. See also the Reporting General section for
information regarding the monthly reporting requirements

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When a ship is dual registered with another flag with Panama being the 'second' flag only a tonnage
certificate is to be issued, no other statutory certificates are to be issued.

Provisional Documents on Board

MMC-313 (Nov. 2023) lists the provisional documents that are acceptable onboard Panamanian ships, while
the application is processed for the original document.

eCertification

LR is authorised to issue eCertificates for this flag Administration.

See Merchant Marine Circular MMC-355 (Rev. May 2025).

Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

LR are not to provide any service for on behalf of or related to the Panama Administration for any of the
vessels listed in MMN-01-2020.

Reporting Generalㅤㅤ
LR is to report to the Administration cases where a ship did not in all respects remain fit to proceed to sea
without danger to the ship or persons on board or representing unreasonable threat of harm to the marine
environment.

LR is to report to the Administration cases of suspension of class, transfer of class, or where statutory
certificates are cancelled (including at Change of Flag) within the first 24 hours. The report must include the
reason for the action and the contact details of the operators of the vessel. The report is to be submitted to ro-
monitoring@[Link].

In accordance with Merchant Marine Circular MMC-307 (Sept 2023) LR are required to send a list of exclusive
surveyors authorised to survey Panamanian ships to the flag annually.

Report of Deficiencies possibly affecting the implementation of ships’ ISM by a Recognized


Organization approved by Panama

1. Recognized Organizations not responsible for the Safety Management Certification (ISM Code – SMC)
must report to ro-monitoring@[Link], when deficiencies are detected during statutory, class
surveys, or surveys relevant to Port State Control, onboard Panamanian flagships, which possible
affect the implementation of the Safety Management System (SMS).
2. Recognized Organizations not responsible for the SMC shall inform the ship Master / Company about
deficiencies detected, which possibly affect the implementation of the SMS, and that the Administration
shall be reported thereof so that the Recognized Organization responsible for the SMC is contacted in
order to coordinate the corresponding actions.
3. Recognized Organizations not responsible for the SMC, shall report to this Administration, within the
next five (5) days after the survey is completed, at least the following information:

Ship’s name and IMO number,


Date and place of survey,
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Category and Description of deficiencies (IACS PR17 as reference).

Monthly RO/RSO Reporting Requirements

As per Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023),the Administration requires LR to report a list of
technical documents, statutory certificates, endorsements and approvals issued/reviewed on behalf of the
Administration for each calendar month by the 15th day of the subsequent month to the RO - RSO Control &
Monitoring Deparment by emailing to monthlyreport@[Link].

The monthly reports must contain a copy of all technical documents and statutory certificates issued,
endorsed and/or approved. The monthly report must include the following information, including ISM, ISPS
(SSP & ISSC) and MLC:

1. Name of ship / Company.


2. IMO number / Call Sign.
3. Ship Gross Tonnage.
4. Name of Certificate / Plan / Manual / Drawing.
5. Number of Certificate / Approval.
6. Type of Certificate (Interim, Full Term or Conditional).
7. Type of Survey / Audit (Initial, Annual, Intermediate, Renewal, Additional.
8. Date of Issuance / Survey / Audit / Approval.
9. Place of Issuance / Survey / Audit / Approval.
10. Expiration date (as applicable).
11. Amount of surcharge (according to the point 6 of the Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December
2023).

Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (December 2023) Annex 2 provides templates (as guidance) for the
monthly reports.

Cancelled Vessels from Panama Registry due to Inclusion on International Sanctions Lists

The Administration has published Executive Decree No. 512 of 18 October 2024 in Official Journal No.
30143-B on Friday 18 October 2024, by which measures and actions are taken (prohibition, annulment and
immediate cancellation) against vessels registered in the Merchant Marine of the Republic of Panama and
their owners, which are included in lists of international sanctions issued by jurisdictions and international
organizations. It should be noted that this regulation came into force on 18 October 2024.

The Administration has advised LR to take appropiate measures based on due diligence and in case of
detecting any vessel that is included on this lists, and to report it to the Administration by emailing to ro-
monitoring@[Link].

Exemptions, Equivalents, Alternative Arrangements,


Waivers, Extensions of Certificatesㅤㅤ
Note that Panama charge LR a fee of US$500 for each AD&A that LR carry out. See Certification General
> Fees section for more details.

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The Administration may grant to individual ships exemptions from the provisions of a Convention, if the ship
complies with the conditions established by the convention, for the specific exemption.

A request for an Exemption Certificate shall be sent to the Segumar Panama Office by the Ship's owner/
operator, legal representative or LR.

The request must be made for each individual ship separately and must include the following:

Copy of the Registry Certificate (Patente), (optional).


Copy of the relevant full-term statutory certificate and its attached forms and/or supplements.
Application for exemption Certificate properly filled out. Refer to Forms & Requirements to access the
forms and requirements from the Administration.

In cases where the Exemption Certificate is requested for the first time, the issuance of such Certificate is the
prerogative of the Administration. LR cannot not issue Interim Exemption Certificates without authorization of
Segumar Offices.

In cases of renewal of Full-Term Exemption Certificate, previously issued by the Administration, LR may issue
an Interim Exemption Certificate without authorization from the Administration. This Interim Exemption
Certificate will be valid for the same validity period of the related interim statutory certificate. Therefore, the
validity of such interim exemption certificate shall not exceed five (5) months. During this period, the users
must apply for the issuance of the Full-Term Exemption Certificate and proceed with the correspondent
payment.

In instances where, temporarily, the requirements of an applicable instrument could not be met under
particular circumstances LR shall notify the Administration in order to permit the vessel to proceed to a
suitable port where permanent repairs or rectifications can be carry out or replace equipment in disrepair.

See MMC-156 (April 2024) for further instructions on Exemption, Equivalents, Conditional, Interim and Full-
Term Certificates.

Postponement of Dry-Dock Surveys

The requirements for the postponement of dry-dock surveys are as follow:

1. Copy of the class status report stating the due date of the dry dock.
2. Confirmation from dry dock regarding availability of the vessel during the proposed date.
3. Confirmation from three dry docks stating their unavailability to accommodate the vessel within the
expected due date.
4. Confirmation from LR stating that there are no outstanding hull or machinery items pending.

DD extension requests for a period less than 1 month do not require an underwater survey (when the last DS
was less than 36 months ago).

DD extensions for vessels past the 36 month window are usually not granted, except in cases of force
majeure, in which case the extension will be for one month only and will require an underwater survey.

If the authorisation is granted the vessel will need an occasional survey as well as an underwater bottom
inspection with diver's CCTV witnessed by an LR surveyor.

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Unified Interpretations (IMO and IACS)ㅤㅤ


No notified technical requirements.

Change of Flag and/or Transfer of Classㅤㅤ


Pre-Check Process

The Administration have published Merchant Marine Notice MMN-11/2024 (July 2025) which
requires precheck process for a vessel to be eligible to enter the Panama Ship Registry.

The precheck will apply to:

Any vessel that requests to enter the Panama Ship Registry, in any of its flag registry modalities.
When a registered vessel, in international service, requests a change of owner, or charterer.

For those vessels already registered in Panama and requesting only a change in the vessel's name or
operator, a precheck will not be necessary.

The Republic of Panama will not accept oil tankers or bulk carriers over fifteen (15) years of age for
registration (Section 8 of MMN-11/2024).

Crew Accommodation Survey

If a Crew Accommodation survey is carried out at a Change of Flag, PDF copies of the following certificates
should be forwarded to LR Balboa:

Panamanian Certificate of Registry (patente).


"Paz y Salvo" tax receipt confirming all owed taxes have been paid in full.

Tonnage Certificates

For vessels changing Flag to Panama, the required tonnage certificate is to be issued by the authorised LR
TSO.

Change of Flag - LRIT

To ensure compliance with the provisions of SOLAS Regulation V/19-1, the vessel´s LRIT equipment must be
integrated into the Panama National Data Center (NDC), so it is essential that the vessel's name, flag, LRIT
equipment identifiers and serial numbers are completed in a timely manner to achieve or maintain compliance
with the requirements to transmit LRIT information at the time of the flag change.

In the event that the vessel does not have the LRIT equipment and/or capability and/or has not performed a
conformance test, and considering that additional time may be required for the installation of new equipment,
configuration of existing equipment and/or scheduling of a compliance test, owner/operators shall apply for an
authorisation letter though E-Segumar platform to allow them the necessary time to complete these tasks.
The installation and commissioning of new LRIT equipment must be completed before a full-term Safety
Equipment Certificate may be issued. Please refer to Section 4.9 of MMC-195 for further details.

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Cancellation of Statutory Certificates at Transfer of Class

In case of transfer of class when LR is the Losing Society, LR is to report the suspension / cancellation /
withdrawal of statutory certificates within the first 24 hours after such suspension / cancellation / withdrawal.

The report must include a description of the reasons and the contact details of the shipowner / operators of
the vessel. The report is to be submitted to ro-monitoring@[Link].

Port State Controlㅤㅤ


The Administration has published Merchant Marine Circular MMC-379 (July 2024) on Procedures for Port
State Control (PSC) Inspections, and Merchant Marine Circular MMC-405 (Sep 2025) on revised measures
aimed to optimise the performance of the Panamanian Merchant Fleet.

Warning vessels: vessels under a moderate risk performance, have had previous inspections with few
deficiencies and no detention records.

Critical vessels: are those that present a high-risk performance, given the history of multiple deficiencies.

Additional survey: is an inspection, either general or partial according to the circumstances, to be made
after:

1. A repair resulting from investigations or whenever any important repairs or renewals are made; or,
2. Change, replacement or significant repair of the structure, equipment, systems, fittings, arrangements
and material (when ballast water management systems (BWMS) are retrofitted on an existing ship to
which an International Ballast Water Management Certificate was previously issued). (Refer to SOLAS
74/88 regulations I/7(a)(iii) and 7(b)(iii) regulation I/8(a)(v) regulation I/9(a)(iv) regulation I/10(a)(vi)
MARPOL Annex I regulation 6.1.5 MARPOL Annex II regulation 8.1.5 MARPOL Annex IV regulation
4.1.3 MARPOL Annex VI regulation 5.1.5 BWM Convention regulation E-1.1.5 IBC Code regulation
[Link].5 IGC Code regulation [Link] BCH Code regulation [Link].5)

Additional Verification: is an audit that may be required, to check if the safety management system still
functions effectively, where there are clear grounds to do so, beyond normal procedures such as port State
control detentions, or in the case of reactivation after the interruption of operations due to a period out of
service, or in order to verify that effective corrective actions have been taken and/or are being properly
implemented. Additional verifications may affect the shore-based organisation and/or the shipboard
management system. The Administration should determine the scope and depth of the verification, which may
vary from case to case. The additional verifications should be completed within the time period agreed, taking
into account the guidelines developed by IMO. The Administration should follow up on the results of the
verification and take appropriate measures, as necessary (Refer to Resolution A.1188(33) - 2023 Guidelines
on implementation of the ISM Code by Administrations).

Applicable measures to critical ships

The General Directorate of Merchant Marine may require that vessels identified as Critical (high-risk ships) to
comply with the following:

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An additional survey every three months, to be carried out by the Recognised Organisation that issues
the statutory certificates. The scope of these surveys will be annual and/or periodical.
Additional verification of the Ship Safety Management System (SMS Certificate), with an initial scope
and the possibility of increasing its frequency if non-conformities or deficiencies are identified that could
affect the Safety Management System.
Ships can also be subject to the PMAP (Performance Monitoring Accelerated Program) consisting of
additional verifications and surveys conducted by the Recognised Organisation in cooperation with a
flag state surveyor at intervals specified by the Administration according to each case.

Applicable measures to warning ships

Shipowners, operators, technical managers, the Designated Person Ashore (DPA), and the vessel
Captain are responsible for completing a pre-arrival checklist.
This checklist must be submitted to prearrival@[Link] one hundred and twenty (120) hours (5
days) prior to the arrival of the vessel to ports under the supervision of the United States Coast Guard
(USCG), Paris MOU, AMSA-Australian Maritime Safety Authority and MSA-Maritime Safety
Administration (People's Republic of China).
Records of these checks must be kept on board and may be requested by the flag state surveyor
during the Annual Safety Inspection (ASI).

Maintenance of conditions after survey

In case of any equipment failure or a defect is discovered onboard which cannot be solved immediately,
the shipowners, operators, technical managers, DPA or the ship Master shall report at the earliest
opportunity to the nearest Segumar Office, the Recognised Organisation responsible for issuing the
relevant certificate, who shall cause investigations to be initiated to determine whether an additional
survey is necessary.
If the ship is enroute to a port under the supervision of port state control authority, the master or owner
shall also report and notify immediately to the appropriate local Port State Control Authority (PSC), as
indicated in SOLAS Convention Chapter I Regulation 11 “Maintenance of conditions after survey.”
Shipowners, operators, technical managers, DPA or the ship Master will coordinate corrective actions
with the Recognised Organisation (RO) and report the at the earliest opportunity to the nearest
SEGUMAR office Refer to Merchant Marine Notice MMN-18/2021 (April 2025) for contact list and
MMC-156 (April 2024) in case of further actions required.

Corrective Measures

For all deficiencies identified during a Port State Control Inspections, the following documents and forms shall
be submitted to the Panama Port State Control Section as soon as possible:

the corrective actions plan (CAP),


evidence of the corrective actions taken by the vessel, duly documented,
Format in Annex 1 of MMC-405 “Correction of Deficiencies Reports” Form (F-27).Maintain an onboard
file containing records and supporting documentation that demonstrate the closure of deficiencies
identified during previous Port State Control (PSC) inspections.

Preventive Measures

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Ships that have been found with deficiencies or detained by a port state control (PSC) authority shall
maintain onboard the documentation specified in MMN-08/2025, concerning the onboard record-
keeping requirements for the Panamanian flagged ships, PSC Compliance File.
Additional inspection and/or verification reports related to inspections resulting in deficiencies or
detentions shall be submitted to the Navigation and Maritime Safety Department of the General
Directorate of Merchant Marine within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) days from the date of the last
day of inspection.
Failure to take corrective action including the implementation of measures to prevent recurrence within
the prescribed time limits shall be considered a major non-conformity or deficiency. Such failure may
lead to enforcement actions, including Prohibition from Sailing, the imposition of fines, or cancellation of
the vessel’s registration, in accordance with the legal procedures established by applicable law.

Contact Information

Port State Control Section, Monday to Fridays (according to Panama local time and regular office hours)

Phone: (507) 501-5092 / 501-5033 / 501-5031

Email: psc@[Link]; prearrival@[Link]

SEGUMAR nearest Office: In cases where assistance is required, please refer to Merchant Marine Notice
MMN-18/2021 (April 2025)

In the cases above indicated, where assistance is requested to Segumar Office, please submit the following
documents:

Corrective Action Plan (CAP),


Format in Annex 1 of MMC-405 “Correction of Deficiencies Reports” Form (F-27),
PSC inspection report,
Related Statutory Certificates copy, and
RO survey report (i.e., Conditional or Single Voyage authorisation).

Authorisations granted by SEGUMAR Offices shall not be considered as a “release letter” in case of a PSC
detention. In case of detention or deficiencies required to be rectified at the present port of inspection,
authorisations will only be granted after acceptance/approval of the Port State Control Officer.

Mandatory Notification to Flag and Port State Authorities, and Onboard Record Keeping

The Administration have issued Merchant Marine Notice MMN-08/2025 to communicate to


all Shipowners/Operators, Legal Representatives of Panama Flag Vessels, and Recognised Organisations
(ROs) the mandatory procedures for all vessels flying the Panamanian flag to:

Immediately notify the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) upon the occurrence of any onboard damage,
malfunction, or deficiency that may affect the vessel’s seaworthiness, safety, or compliance with
applicable international instruments as per Sections 3.1 and 3.2 of MMN-08/2025.
Notify the competent port authorities at the next port of call, especially if the vessel is arriving with any
unresolved damage, malfunction, or deficiency as per Sections 3.3 and 3.4 of MMN-08/2025.
Maintain an onboard file with records and supporting documentation proving the closure of deficiencies
from previous Port State Control (PSC) inspections as per Section 4.1 of MMN-08/2025. This file must

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be readily available for inspection by PSC officers, Class surveyors, or Flag State inspectors as per
Section 4.2 of MMN-08/2025.

Requirements Generalㅤㅤ
The Administration have published MMC 152 (May 2024) - Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System
of Survey and Certification (HSSC).

IMO Unique Company and Registered Owner Identification Number Scheme / IMO ship identification
number scheme

The Administration have published MMC 151 (July 2025) to inform all interested parties on the use of the IMO
Ship Identification Number Scheme and the permanent identification number to companies and registered
owners, to enhance maritime safety and pollution prevention and also to facilitate the prevention of maritime
fraud.

Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW)

The Administration have published MMC-235 (Rev. Aug 2025) to communicate to the users of the
Panamanian Registry, the regulations of the Republic of Panama and the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA)
by means of which the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (1978 STCW Convention, as amended) and its STCW Code,
including Amendments 2010, 2014, 2015, 2016 2021 and 2023, have been adopted and regulated.

A schedule indicating how work and rest periods organised onboard, written in the English language or the
common language of work, must be kept at an accessible location and be available for review by competent
authorities as necessary.

All rating personnel that work on board Panamanian vessels, and who are seafarers from the Republic of the
India and from the Philippines, must have the endorsement of the Previous Documentary Evaluation
Certification, issued by a Maritime Training Centre approved by the Panama Marine Authority.

Samples of seafarers documentation may be found in MMC-391.

Seafarers documentation issued through the Automated Application System can be checked here.

Panama Canal Requirements

For requirements relating to the Panama Canal, see National Regulations section.

CCSS Code

Panama has adopted the Code of Safety for Caribbean Cargo Ships (CCSS Code). The CCSS Code applies
to cargo ships under 500GT operating in waters of countries that have adopted this Code.

All Panamanian flag vessels under 500 GT operating in the waters of countries that have adopted this Code
or that are part of the Caribbean MOU are to comply with the provisions of the CCSS Code during the first
dry docking after the entry into force of Resolution 106-54 DGMM of October 29, 2010.

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Electronic Record Books (ERBs)

The Administration have issued MMC­-193 (Rev. Oct 2025) which permits the use of electronic records for the
MARPOL Record Book, Crew Roll Book, Ballast Water Record Book, Bridge Log Book and any other record
book the Administration determines to be necessary for the operation of the ship per the international
Conventions and Codes. The technical requirements for the records are published within the Circular.

International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code)

The Administration have issued MMC-395 (March 2025) to inform Owners/Operators, Recognised
Organisations, Masters, and Annual Safety Inspectors on the applicable procedures regarding the IGF Code
and its amendments.

The current version of the Code includes regulations to meet the functional requirements for natural gas fuel.
Regulations for other low-flashpoint fuels will be added to the IGF Code as, and when, they are developed by
the Organization and considering to be incorporated to this Code.

Considering that the IGF Code does not cover methanol as fuel and in the meantime Interim guidelines for the
safety of ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel has been developed thorough the MSC.1/Circ.1621;
the Administration accepts the use of this interim guidelines as complementary international standard for the
registered fleet using methanol as alternative fuel.

According to the IGF Code, other low-flashpoint fuels not cover by the IGF Code must demonstrate
compliance with the functional requirements of the IGF Code through alternative design procedures.

Remote Surveys

Remote Surveys

The Administration published Merchant Marine Circular MMC-382 (Apr 2021) which provides information for
obtaining authorisation to conduct remote surveys on Panamanian vessels, using remote inspection
techniques.

LR is authorised by the Administration to conduct remote surveys as per the provisions of MMC-382.

LR is responsible to determine if the ship applying for remote survey is eligible for the inspection, considering
the scope and suitable conditions to perform such work. LR has been authorized to carry out the following
Surveys-Audits:
1. Interim ISM / ISPS and MLC Audits.
2. Additional ISM/ISPS/MLC due to rectification of non-conformities or pending remarks (Not applicable in
cases of Additional Audits due to PSC & ASI detentions).
3. Statutory rectification of deficiencies or remarks (in cases of PSC & ASI detentions it will be evaluated on a
case-by-case basis).
4. Occasional In-water Survey
5. Radio Surveys which have been attended by a radio technician subcontracted by LR as service supplier or
an exclusive radio surveyor.

Note: For those cases when a third-party service suppliers or firms approved by LR, are involved in
rectifications of deficiencies, Non-Conformities, remarks, occasional in- water surveys and radio surveys, LR

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are to maintain the corresponding records of such services.

To broaden the scope of surveys listed above, LR shall submit to ro-panama@[Link], their procedures
which must comply the requirements of MMC-382. For further details, please refer to Merchant Marine
Circular MMC-382 (Apr 2021).

Special Permanent Delegation of items for Remote Survey

The Administration has granted LR permanent delegation to perform remote surveys of specific items.
Considering the advances in the capacities LR has developed in conducting remote surveys,
the Administration has authorized LR to perform the following remote surveys (without previous flag
authorization in a case-by-case):

1. Interim ISM / ISPS and MLC Audits.


2. Additional ISM/ISPS/MLC due to rectification of non-conformities or pending remarks (Not applicable
in cases of PSC & ASI detentions).
3. Statutory rectification of deficiencies or remarks (Not applicable in cases of PSC & ASI detentions).
4. Occasional In-water Survey.
5. Periodical Radio Survey carried out by approved LR service supplier.
6. Change of Load Line.

LR Preboard

The Administration has approved LR for Preboard (document collection and review) process for surveys.

SAFCONㅤㅤ
Fees

Additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates. See Certification General
> Fees section.

Dry-Docking Surveys

For dry-docking survey interval requirements refer to Merchant Marine Circular MMC-204 (April 2024) and
MMN-06/2022.

The Panama Flag Administration normally requires proof of three shipyards that are unable to accommodate
a vessel within the desired date, to consider the postponement of Docking Surveys/Special Surveys.

For requirements specifically related to MODU's please refer to MMC ­289.

Dry-Docking Surveys: Vessels Operating Exclusively in Panamanian Jurisdictional Waters

It should be noted that for every vessel with an International Register Certificate, that is operating exclusively
within Panamanian jurisdictional waters, and regardless of service and tonnage, the two inspections of the
outside of the ship's bottom during any five year period are to be carried out with the ship in dry dock.

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Notwithstanding the above, the Administration could authorise the replacement of the intermediate outside
ship's bottom survey with an in water survey for ships operating exclusively within jurisdictional waters after
evaluation of criteria such as vessel age, type of service, maintenance checks of ships. Authorisation for this
is only granted on a case by case basis.

Dry-Docking Surveys: Cargo Vessels of 500 GT and Over

Inspections of the outside of the ship's bottom should normally be carried out with the ship in a dry dock.
However, consideration may be given to alternate inspections being carried out with the ship afloat.

As per MMN 06/2022 (applicable only to ships in service up to 10 years of age since date of built) ships
meeting the requirements according to the IACS Recommendation 133 may be permitted to carry out two (2)
consecutive in-water surveys instead of dry docking and have a privilege to extend their dry docking period
from 5 to 7.5 years, subject to the approval of Classification Society (IACS only) and Administration/Flag
State.

Inspections with the ship afloat should only be carried out when the conditions are satisfactory, and the proper
equipment and suitably trained staffs are available.

For ships of 15 yeas of age and over (other than bulk carriers and oil tankers) authorisation from the
Administration is required prior to carrying out such inspections afloat.

For oil tankers and bulk carriers less than 15 years of age, alternate inspections of the ship's bottom not
conducted in conjunction with the renewal survey may be carried out with the ship afloat.

For bulk carriers and oil tankers of 15 years of age and over inspection of the outside of the ship's bottom of
should be carried out with the ship in dry dock.

Dry-Docking Surveys: Cargo Vessels of Less than 500 GT

Authorisation must be obtained from the Administration prior to permitting a cargo vessel of less than 500 GT
to carry out the inspection of the ship's bottom afloat.

Extended Dry-Docking (EDD) intervals

If requested by operators to implement a scheme for extended dry-docking intervals, LR is authorised to do so


by allowing two consecutive in-water surveys in lieu of bottom inspection in dry dock for ships of 15 years of
age or less.

LR Fleet Services (Class) at [Link]@[Link], as appropriate, must be contacted as soon as a request is


received for a vessel to be accepted onto the extended dry-docking scheme.

Passenger ships and ships subject to enhanced surveys in accordance with annex A or B of Resolution A.744
(18), as amended, are not eligible for the extended dry docking scheme.

For the acceptance of extended intervals between bottom surveys in dry-dock, the following basic
requirements and assumptions apply:

a comprehensive maintenance scheme shall be implemented by owners/managers.


a well implemented Safety Management System demonstrated by satisfactory SMC/DOC audit results
and satisfactory PSC and Flag State inspection record.
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ship hull and rudder is to be of proven design.


the ship shall comply with the in-water survey provision in accordance with LR rules for BIS notation
(built for in-water survey of the ship's bottom).
the shafting arrangement shall comply with LR rules for TMON notation (tailshaft condition monitoring
survey arrangement).
blanks, cofferdams, or other closing appliances are to be available to enable maintenance and survey
of sea connections afloat, where necessary.
it is to be possible to change or service essential equipment normally during dry dockings while the ship
is afloat.
the external hull coating system is to have documented performance with respect to its ability to provide
corrosion protection and anti-fouling over the anticipated period between two consecutive drydockings.

For assessment that the conditions for in-water-surveys are sufficient to complete the survey satisfactorily, the
following points are to be complied with:

diving companies carrying out the in-water survey are to be subject to approval by LR.
the in-water survey is to be carried out at an agreed geographical location with the ship at a suitable
draught in an area that has been demonstrated to have sheltered waters and with weak tidal streams
and currents. Visibility and water conditions are to be suitable to provide sufficient evidence to be able
to draw a conclusion that the hull inspection requirements have been met and the hull is in satisfactory
condition.
the survey is to include CCTV monitoring together with electronic video and still picture (if required and
where appropriate) recording of the ship's hull, appendages, sea-chests and the surveyor.
the hull below the water line is to be sufficiently clean to the satisfaction of the surveyor and the diver so
as to be able to ascertain the physical condition of the hull and coating.

In addition to the in-water survey, an internal examination of hull structures is to be carried out including
required thickness measurements. Assessments of water ballast coating condition shall be carried out and
must be rated GOOD in order to continue on the extended dry-docking scheme.

If the in-water survey or the internal examination of hull structures reveal damage, deterioration or other
conditions that require early attention or which can only be assessed reliably out of water, the surveyor may
require that the ship be dry-docked in order that a more comprehensive survey can be undertaken and the
necessary repair work carried out.

A detailed report is to be sent by LR to the Administration every time LR grants such an extension in dry-
docking intervals to a Panamanian vessel.

Protective Coatings of Dedicated Seawater Ballast Tanks

Guidance relating to protective coatings of dedicated seawater ballast tanks in all types of ships and double-
side skin spaces of bulk (SOLAS II-1/3-2) can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-246.

Use of Asbestos

New buildings must not incorporate asbestos or asbestos based materials in their construction.

Where asbestos or asbestos-based material is removed from an existing ship, the replacement material must
not include asbestos.
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Tanker Oil Spill Deck Coaming

The superstructure front may be used to form part of the continuous side to side oil spill deck coaming.

Noise Levels on Ships

Compliance with Assembly Resolution A.468(XII) (Noise Code) is recommended.

Use of UI LL 64

The Administration accepts the application of UI LL 64 on all new containerships with hatchcovers above the
superstructure deck.

Electronic ESP Reports

Panama has authorised the use of electronic ESP reports provided a hard-copy is also available on board for
offline inspection where necessary.

Onboard Lifting Appliances and Anchor Handling


Winchesㅤㅤ
Lifting Appliances (ILO 152)

LR is authorised to issue LR Forms.

Although currently not a signatory to the ILO Convention 152, Panama now accept periodic re-testing of lifting
appliances to be carried out on a five year cycle.

SOLAS II-1/3-13.1.3 (Lifting appliances and anchor handling winches)

The Administration has clarified that SOLAS II-1/3-13.2.1 and 2.4 will be applicable on a voluntary basis to
lifting appliances with SWL less than 1,000 kgs.

Safety Equipmentㅤㅤ
Fees

Additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates. See Certification General
> Fees section.

Bridge Equipment and Layout

Panama recommends that MSC/Circ. 982 is followed on ships constructed on or after 1 July 2002.

Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm Systems (BNWAS)


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BNWAS installed prior to 1 July 2011 are to conform to Resolution MSC.128(75), and can be accepted without
additional testing as long as a type approval certificate in compliance with this Resolution has been granted.
Please refer to MMC-287 regarding Earlier Implementation of Amendments to SOLAS Reg. V/19.1.2 (BNWAS
Installation)

In cases in which a BNWAS installed prior to 1 July 2011 has a type approval certificate that is not in
compliance with Resolution MSC.128(75), the Administration will consider whether an exemption can be
issued. In order for the Administration to consider whether an exemption can be issued, LR is to assess
whether the BNWAS complies with the minimum requirements of Resolution MSC.128(75) listed in the
checklist that can be accessed from Merchant Marine Circular MMC-229. LR is then to provide their
recommendation together with a copy of the completed checklist to the Administration.

For ships built after 1 July 2011, the Administration has no objection to a motion detector fulfilling the relevant
requirements of BNWAS provided that it is suitably type approved.

Navigation Lights

For keels laid before 15 July, 1977 the following navigation lights complying with COLREGS 60 may be
retained:

Electric anchor, NUC and towing lanterns.


Masthead, side and stern lanterns may be retained as spares provided they have double wiring.
Oil lanterns may only be retained on board as a third alternative.

Nautical Charts - refer to MMC 218

1. All vessels should carry an adequate portfolio of corrected up-to-date nautical charts necessary to plan
and display the vessel's route for the intended voyage, including the approach and details for every port
of call, and to plot and monitor the vessel's position throughout the voyage. These charts must be of an
appropriate scale and have enough detail to make a safe navigation through the corresponding area. In
addition, vessels are to carry nautical charts that might be needed to safely enter a harbour of safe
refuge along the intended route.

2. As provided by SOLAS V/[Link], vessels may use an ECDIS to either partly or fully fulfil this chart
carriage requirement, provided that the following conditions are met:
.1 An appropriate portfolio of back-up paper charts is onboard and ready for use wherever ENC
coverage is not available. The number of charts kept as a back-up is to be decided by the owner or
Master, and they must be of sufficient number and scale to ensure safe navigation to a port of safe
refuge where electronic chart navigation becomes impossible.
.2 Other back up arrangements, including a second ECDIS, may be used to meet the back-up
requirement of SOLAS V/[Link], subject to appropriate consideration being given to 2.1 above and
2.4 below.
.3 It should be possible to operate ECDIS and all equipment for its normal functioning when supplied by
an emergency source of electrical power in accordance with SOLAS II-1/43.2.4.
.4 Changing from one source of power supply to another or any interruption of the supply for a period of
up to 45 seconds should not require the equipment to be manually re-initialised.

3. Ships to which SOLAS V/19.2.10 applies are to comply with the carriage requirements for ECDIS
detailed therein, and sufficient planning should be anticipated to comply with these new regulatory
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requirements well in advance of the applicable "first survey" date.

4. In addition, considering that training is a key element in the successful and safe transition to electronic
navigation, all ship's officers in charge of a navigational watch on board the vessels to which the ECDIS
is mandatory must attend, as a minimum, an approved generic ECDIS operator training course
based on the IMO standard model.

Magnetic Compass

The Administration provides established guidelines for maintaining and testing magnetic compasses, and
published the same as Merchant Marine Notice MMC 138 (April 2024),

Nautical Publications

1. For Nautical publications carriage requirements, refer to MMC 107 for guidance. Masters should ensure
that any additional nautical publication required by port state regulations for ports where the vessel will
be calling during a voyage are onboard and corrected with the latest published corrections.

2. Electronic nautical publications may be used to either partly or fully fulfil the requirements of SOLAS
V/[Link], [Link] and 27 above provided the following conditions are met:
.1 Nautical publications required for voyage planning (examples include sailing directions, coast pilots,
light lists, etc.): either an electronic or paper back-up must be provided. All back-up copies must be
corrected and ready for use when needed. When an electronic back-up is carried, portions of the
publication needed for the planned voyage should be printed and included with the voyage plan.
.2 Nautical publications required for navigation while the vessel is en route between ports (examples
include tide and current tables, nautical almanacs, sight reduction tables, etc.): a corrected paper copy
must be provided.

3. Carriage requirements for other publications are detailed in MMC 107 and MMC 108.

Guidelines for the Maintenance, Inspection of Fire-Protection System and Appliances

Refer to Merchant Marine Circular MMC-281(Rev. Oct 2025) for guidelines and specific requirements
applicable to the maintenance, inspection, of fire protection systems and appliances. These requirements are
applicable to all Panamanian flag ships, including MODUs. A list of the applicable MSC circulars and
resolutions are given in MMC-281.

Fixed Carbon Dioxide-based Fire Extinguishing Systems

Panama apply the provisions established in Circular MSC.1/Circ.1318/Rev.1 of May 25, 2021, to Panama
Ship Registry.

Fire protection - Paint Lockers

Refer to Section 8 of MMC-281 (Rev. Oct 2025).

Paint lockers are to be protected by:

1. a carbon dioxide system, designed to give a minimum volume of free gas equal to 40% of the gross
volume of the protected space; or
2. a dry powder system, designed for at least 0.5 kg powder/m3; or
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3. a water spraying or sprinkler system, designed for 5 l/m2 min. Water spraying systems may be
connected to the fire main of the ship; or
4. the fitting of a portable fire extinguisher immediately outside the entrance to the paint locker. The
number of portable extinguishers is to be adequate to the size of the paint locker as determined by the
Recognised Organisation.

Note: In any case, the system shall be operable from outside the protected space.

Fire Control Plan

If it becomes necessary for any reason to reissue a vessel's fire control plan, the plan review process should
verify compliance with Resolution A.952(23). See Merchant Marine Circular MMC-277 (June 2022) for further
information about fire control plan graphical symbols and verification.

Ventilation for Ro-Ro Cargo Spaces

Adequate natural ventilation for Ro-Ro cargo spaces' open at one end only, as defined in SOLAS 74 Ch II-2
Reg. 3.15, may be provided by permanent openings in the side plating or deck head of not less than 10 per
cent of the area of the side plating. Openings should be placed as far forward as possible.

Drainage of Fire-fighting Water from Closed Vehicle and Ro-ro Spaces and Special Category Spaces
of Passenger and Cargo Ships

Panama has implemented MSC.1/Circ.1320.

Fire Fighter's Outfits

In accordance with SOLAS Chapter II-2 / Reg. [Link] two spare charges/cylinders shall be provided for
each required breathing apparatus on board which will be used in an emergency (not a drill).

As per SOLAS Chapter II-2 / Reg. 15.2 the Administration considers that at least one additional spare cylinder
per fireman outfit (which is only assigned for drills and has clear identification for that purpose) shall be carried
on board.

If the vessel is not provided with an on board means of recharging breathing apparatus cylinders, the total
number of spare cylinders required for each fireman outfit will be three (3) as per above requirements - two for
emergency use and one for use in drills.

If the vessel is provided with a means for recharging breathing apparatus cylinder one spare cylinder (1) per
Fireman Outfit is required.

Immersion Suits

See MMC-144 (Sept. 2022) for carriage of immersion suits requirements

Additional immersion suits are to be provided so that individuals who will be working some distance from the
place where a crewman's immersion suit is stored: including, but not limited to the Navigation Bridge, Engine
Room, and any other places onboard the ship that is in accordance with the type of ship, should be
considered as a permanent working place. In the above mentioned places, the ship must carry two immersion
suits.

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Immersion suits and thermal protective aids are to be assigned by the Master. It is recommended that they
should be kept in the crew cabins along with life jackets.

The three immersion suits per lifeboat required by SOLAS III/32.3.2 for cargo ships and III/22.4.1 for
passenger vessels are intended for use by the designated and/or certified persons in charge of the lifeboat.
They may be kept in the cabins of the assigned personnel. In addition, all persons in the crew of a rescue
boat are to be provided with immersion suits, if different from the persons in charge of the lifeboat noted
above.

For cargo vessels less than 85 meters in length other than oil tankers, chemical tankers and gas carriers
operating above 32° North and 32° South latitudes, where only liferafts are carried in accordance with SOLAS
III/31.1.3, all persons are to be provided with immersion suits.

A ship other than a bulk carrier as defined in SOLAS IX/1, as amended, which is constantly engaged on
voyages in warm climates, between Latitude 32° degrees North and 32° degrees South), may be exempted
from the said requirements.

Ship will continue to carry the number of lifejackets required by SOLAS III/7.2, as amended, when the
immersion suits are classified as lifejackets.

The monthly inspection and the periodic testing of the immersion suit must be carried out in accordance with
MSC/Circ.1114 and MSC/Circ.1047.

Approved Service Providers for Lifeboats, Launching Appliances and On-load Release Gear

For guidance regarding the approved service providers for lifeboats, launching appliances and on-load
release gear, please refer to the latest version of Merchant Marine Circular MMC-258, which can be
downloaded from here.

Lifeboat Release and Retrieval System

For requirements relating to lifeboat on-load release mechanisms, see Merchant Marine Circular MMC-250.

Fall Preventer Devices (FPDs) should be employed at the master's discretion as an interim risk mitigation
measure for each existing lifeboat release and retrieval system until the system meets any of the
requirements stated in paragraphs 6.1 to 6.5 of MSC.1/Circ.1392.

The amendments to the LSA Code introduced by Resolution MSC.320(89) are applicable to ships constructed
on or after 1 July 2014.

The requirement relating to the employment of FPDs contained in the Circular is under SOLAS III/1.5. FPDs
are to be approved by an Administration or RO in accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1327.

Lifeboat Falls

The renewal of the wire rope of lifeboat falls must not exceed five years.

Liferafts

For ships constructed before 1st July 1986, in the event that liferafts are not transferable, then 50 percent are
to be provided on each side. This requirement is in accordance with Marine Circular No. 29 which we
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understand is currently under review by the Panama Maritime Authority. Further guidance will be given as
soon as it becomes available.

Liferafts, if located at the aft/forward end of the ship and at a distance of more than 100 m from the closest
survival craft, as required by SOLAS III/31.1.4 should be regarded as "remotely located survival craft" with
regard to SOLAS III/[Link].

MSC.1/Circ.1243 requests that the area where remotely located survival craft are stowed are to be provided
with an embarkation ladder or other means of embarkation enabling descent to the water in a controlled
manner in accordance with SOLAS III/11.7. The arrangement must assure the safety of crewmembers at the
time of its use . The approval of other means of embarkation, enabling descent to the water in a controlled
manner in accordance with SOLAS III/31.1.4 is to be carried out by LR, taking into consideration
requirements, material, characteristics and dimensions criteria.

Ships contracted for construction on or after 1 January 2007 must comply with MSC.1/Circ.1243 immediately.
For existing ships, compliance with these requirements is to be verified at the next Safety Equipment Annual
Survey.

Viking Liferaft Type S30

The Administration has approved the use of the Viking Liferaft Type S30. For requirements relating to
maintenance and inspection periods for these liferafts see Circular No. 194.

Embarkation Ladders and Pilot Ladders

For cargo ships that use cranes for loading and unloading of cargoes (regardless of whether such cranes are
provided onboard the ship or by a shore side facility), it is necessary to provide one ladder to meet the
objectives of SOLAS II-1/3-9 and one ladder to meet the objectives of V/23.

However, for ships where no cargo or other suspended loads may pass overhead, e.g. tankers, the
accommodation ladder can be located within the parallel body so that one ladder can be used to meet the
requirements of both SOLAS II-1/3-9 and V/23.

Marine Evacuation Systems (MES) Guidelines for Test, Servicing and Deployment

Clarification and procedure to be followed for the test of the Marine Evacuation System (MES) are contained
in MMC 394.

Automatic Identification System (AIS)

For requirements relating to AIS, see Merchant Marine Circular No. 155.

Voyage Data Recorders VDR/S-VDR

For requirements relating to VDR/S-VDR, see Merchant Marine Circular No. 161 (Sept 2024).

MSC.1/Circ.1224

Panama has not made MSC.1/Circ.1224 mandatory but recommends that the Circular is complied with.

Material Safety Data Sheets

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Panama is implementing Resolution MSC.286(86).

SOLAS II-2/Reg. 13.3.4 - Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBDs)

The Administration have provided their minimum requirements for the carriage of EEBDs and the training of
the ship's crew in their use in MMC-142.

ECDIS Updates

III.2/Circ.2 provide some guidance for PSCOs to be aware of the difficulties being experienced making
required ECDIS updates (which it is assumed is referring to the Presentation Library 4.0 version of ECDIS) in
accordance with SOLAS Ch. V by 31 August 2017. The Circular was withdrawn by III.2/Circ.2 Add.1 with
effect from 1 July 2018.

LR must verify that Presentation Library 4.0 version of ECDIS is installed on Panamanian ships during
correspondent Safety Equipment Certificate/Passenger Ship Safety Certificate surveys. If the vessel does not
comply, the Administration strongly recommends that an application for the authorisation for the issuance of a
Conditional Safety Equipment Certificate/Passenger Ship Safety Certificate be made at the earliest
opportunity.

Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT)

The Administration has adopted MSC.1/Circ.1257 amended by MSC.1/Circ.1307/Rev.1 as the relevant


standard. Shipowners may use any equipment to transmit LRIT information provided that the onboard
equipment complies with the requirements of SOLAS Regulations V/19- 1.6, V/19-1.7 and IMO MSC.1/Circ.
1307/Rev.1.

The Panama Maritime Authority has established a fully functional National Data Centre which is operated on
its behalf by Polestar who is also authorised as the Panama Recognised Application Service Provider
(Recognised ASP) to undertake shipborne equipment testing and the issuance of a Conformance Test Report
(CTR). All applicable Panamanian registered vessels will be integrated into the Panama LRIT Data Centre
and subject to a satisfactory conformance test of the shipborne LRIT equipment.

All Conformance Test shall be conducted directly by Consorcio Maritime Intelligence Group 2022, as
Recognised ASP on behalf of the Panama Maritime Authority.

LRIT conformance test is required for all new and existing installations of shipborne LRIT equipment upon
vessel's registration under Panamanian flag and thereafter annually on or before the anniversary date of the
conformance test.

An LRIT conformance test can take approximately 48 hours and is conducted remotely and preferably while
the vessel is at sea. It's recommended to test transceivers well before radio surveys to ensure there's enough
time for the test.

On successful completion of the LRIT test, the owner/operator must obtain a Conformance Test Report (CTR)
as proof of compliance. LRIT Conformance Test Report is issued by the Authorised Testing Provider that
conducted the test on behalf of Panama Maritime Authority.

The CTR is the “Conformance Test Report” and should not be mistaken for the conformance test results. LR
shall not to issue a full-term Safety Equipment Certificate on the basis of the conformance test results. The
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CTR is proof of compliance with LRIT regulations and is required for radio surveys and inspections. The ship
operator must keep the CTR on board.

From 01 July 2023, all Conformance Test Reports (CTR) issued on behalf of the Republic of Panama will be
issued as electronic documents with electronic signature and QR Code. The Panama Maritime Authority will
not accept conformance tests carried out under another registry.

From 01 January 2024, all Conformance Test Report will be issued with validity not exceeding twelve (12)
months from the conformance test completion date.

In case of changes in vessel name, ownership, Maritime Mobile Service Identity, Distinctive Number or
Letters, Gross Tonnage, or Ship Areas where the vessel is certified to operate will not require a new
Conformance Test but will require to obtain an amended Conformance Test Report (CTR) under cost. An
amended Conformance Test Report does not extend its validity period.

During radio surveys, LR surveyor must confirm that the CTR remains valid in accordance with the provisions
of MMC 195, and the equipment supporting LRIT (Inmarsat-C, Iridium, etc.) to be physically verified to ensure
it is operational. If, during radio surveys, it is found that the LRIT equipment is not operational or that the
Conformance Test Report (CTR) has expired, a statutory deficiency to be issued, and it must be reported to
the Administration.

If the ship is undergoing radio inspection and does not have the Conformance Test Report (CTR) on board,
but there is evidence that the Recognised ASP has initiated the test, LR may issue a Conditional Safety
Equipment Certificate valid for one (1) month, without prior authorisation from the Segumar Office, however
copy of the conditional certificate shall be send immediately to conditionals@[Link].

LR will not be able to issue a fully valid Safety Equipment Certificate if the vessel does not have a valid
Conformance Test Report on board, or in cases where the vessel is not within the NDC.

If the vessel has the radio inspection report and has already completed the conformance test, but the
equipment on board does not meet the LRIT performance standards, authorisation may be granted to LR to
issue a Conditional Safety Equipment Certificate valid for three months, which will allow the ship more time to
obtain the new equipment.

For further information see MMC-195 (Rev. Sept 2025).

Radioㅤㅤ
EPIRB Programming and Registration - see Merchant Marine Circular MMC-112 (Nov 2020)

EPIRBs are to be programmed with the MMSI number. After programming a notice is to be sent to the
Administration with the following information:

Name of ship.
Call letters.
IMO number.
MMSI number programmed.
Operators complete name.
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Mailing address.
Contact phone and fax numbers and/or email.
Designated person in charge (In case of ISM certified vessels).
Copy of the valid radio license.

Qualified Operators

When the 'at sea' maintenance capability has not been specified, a minimum of two (2) watch keeping deck
officers are to be a qualified operator.

Certificates of radio competence are required to be issued by the Administration.

Compliance with GMDSS High Frequency Narrow Band Direct Printing Channeling Requirements

The Administration has issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-334 (March 2024). which specifies the Global
Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) equipment requirements for radiocommunication performance
and functionality due to GMDSS modernization.

Safety Radiotelephony for ships under 300 GT

Please see Ships below convention size section for details.

Passengerㅤㅤ
Dry Docking and In-water Surveys

In accordance with Merchant Marine Circular MMC-204 (April 2024) irrespective of the navigation area
passenger ships shall be subject to two outside ship's bottom inspection with the ship in a dry dock in a five
(5) year period (60 months) (this is the period of validity of the International Load Line Certificate). In all cases
the period of time between these two bottom inspections in dry dock shall not exceed 36 months. The
remaining bottom surveys of these ships can be carried out as in-water surveys. Consecutive underwater
surveys are allowed for these ships.

The required inspections of the ship's bottom can be carried out with the ship afloat for the renewal surveys of
the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate, provided that LR agrees to do so.

Passenger ships of 15 years of age and over are required to have permission from the Flag Administration for
in-water bottom surveys. MMC 204 provides the requirements

Material Safety Data Sheets

Panama is implementing Resolution MSC.286(86).

Drainage of Fire-fighting Water from Closed Vehicle and Ro-ro Spaces and Special Category Spaces
of Passenger and Cargo Ships

Panama has implemented MSC.1/Circ.1320.

Issuance of Conditional Certificates for Passenger Ships

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The Administration has given special authorisation to LR for permanent issuance of Conditional Certificates
valid for a period no longer than 60 days, without previous authorization from the Administration, for
passenger ships having the following deficiencies/malfunctions as linked here.

ISM Codeㅤㅤ
Guidelines for Requesting Authorisation for an Additional ISM Audit

LR must submit the request for authorisation to carry out additional ISM audits to the Administration by email
(see contact details below). The request must state the name of the vessel, IMO number, call sign, date of
detention and Port State Control detention report. In cases where the additional audit is not due to Port State
Control deficiencies, LR must state the reason/s for the additional audit.

LR must send a copy of the additional audit report as soon as possible to the Administration along with the
necessary corrective actions.

Contact Details - Monday to Friday 8.30am -8.00pm

PSC section

Phone: +507 501 5031 /501 5033 / 501 5094 /501 5092
Mobile: +507 6655 2382
Fax: +507 501 5083
Email: ism@[Link]

Contact Details - Evenings, weekends and holidays

Segumar Panama

Phone: +507 501 5350 / 501 5356 / 501 5361


Fax: +507 501 5363 / 501 5964
Email: ism@[Link]

All Company Operators/Owners/Masters are to send the Declaration of Company (DC) and Declaration of
Designated Person Ashore (DPA) to the Administration at fullterm@[Link] to obtain the necessary
endorsement. LR is to verify, during ISM audits, that every DPA and DC has been endorsed by the
Administration.

The Administration will endorse the Declarations only after receipt of the Interim SMC, therefore at Interim
SMC audit no endorsement will be available.

Liabilities Declaration

The following documents should be checked for validity during Annual Verification of Document of
Compliance (DOC-ISM) and Intermediate Verification of the Safety Management Certificate (SMC-ISM) as
detailed in the Administration's letter.
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Certificate of Insurance or other Financial Security in respect of Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution
Damage.
Certificate of Insurance or other Financial Security in respect of Liability for the Removal of Wrecks.
Certificate of Insurance or other Financial Security in respect to Ship owners' Liability as required under
the MLC, 2006.
Declaration of Company Operator and Designated Person Ashore, duly endorsed by this
Administration, as per the MMC-176.

Reporting of correction of deficiencies found during Annual Safety Inspections

For requirements relating to the reporting of correction of deficiencies found during Annual Safety Inspections
see Merchant Marine Circular No. 201.

Risk Assessment

Risk assessment is now explicitly required in the ISM Code. LR is to use the guidance developed by IACS, A
Guide to Risk Assessment in Ship Operations, when verifying compliance with paragraph [Link] of the ISM
Code.

Internal Safety Audits

The intervals between internal safety audits on board and ashore, specified in paragraph 12.1 of the ISM
Code, may be exceeded by up to three months in exceptional circumstances. It is the Company that is
to approve such extensions and the Company should, therefore, establish the criteria for extensions in the
safety management system.

Fees and Reporting

Monthly reportings and additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates, as per
Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324 (January 2023). See Certification General and Reporting
General sections for further details.

ISM Additional Audits

Information on requirements for additional audits is in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-176 (Sept 2023).

2010 Manila Amendments

The Administration have issued MN 01/2017 on MSC.1/Circ.1560. The Administration makes it clear that the
MSC.1/Circ.1560 shall not be considered as an extension to comply with the 2010 Manila Amendments to the
Convention and Code and urges all seafarers, ship-owners and operators to fully comply with the new
Regulations as soon as possible

Maritime Cyber Risk Management

The Administration have issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-354 (June 2019) which implements IMO
Resolution MSC.428 (98) by the first Document of Compliance annual verification after 1 January 2021. The
guidelines in MSC-FAL.1/Circ.3 should be followed.

For application of cyber risk management to vessels calling at United States Coast Guard see Merchant
Marine Notice MMN-19/2020.
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ISPS Codeㅤㅤ
LR cannot issue Form# 2225PAN with a validity of more than five (5) months.

The Administration have issued Merchant Marine Circular - MMC 123 (Rev. Aug 2025) on ISPS Code. The
instructions and procedures in Merchant Marine Circular - MMC 359 (Rev. Aug 2025) - Guidance for the
Implementation and Certification of the ISPS Code must be followed.

Plan Approval

For SSP Plan Approvals, please refer to Sec 4.3 of MMC-123.

Procedures for the Issuance of the International Ship Security Certificate

LR should remind the client that it is the clients responsibility to contact the Panamanian Flag for the issuance
of full term certification in accordance with MMC-359 and MMC 337 (Oct 2022).

Once the Initial or Renewal Verification has been carried out, the operating company must apply to the Full
Term ISSC, through the E-Platform issued only by the Maritime Authority of Panama, in order to avoid
navigate without a valid certificate.

Full term ISSC shall be issued only by the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) after the vessel has successfully
completed an initial or renewal verification in compliance with the applicable requirements of Chapter XI-2,
ISPS Code A/19.2 and 19.3, relevant provisions of Part B and additional flag requirements, for a period of up
to five (5) years from the date of successful completion of the aforementioned verifications. During this time
the original certificate must remain on board the vessel.

The PMA only will issue the Full Term ISSC for initial (new construction or change of flag) or change of
Operator Company when the application for amended CSR point 12 is received through the E-Platform. Both
documents will be issue at the same time.

LR is authorised to perform initial and renewal ISSC Audits. LR is not authorised to issue a full term ISSC.

LR is also not authorised to issue a short term ISSC following an Initial or Renewal Audit. LR auditor must
endorse the existing ISSC Full Term after performing the renewal verification according to the ISPS Code Part
A/19.3.4 “Endorsement where the renewal verification has been completed and section A/19.3.4 of the
ISPS Code applies” (for 5 months) as per MMC-359.

Refer to MMC-359 regarding procedures for the issuance of the ISSC.

The Administration will authorise the issuance of a Short Term ISSC:

when changes affecting the ISSC Full Term Certificate


in cases where the initial verification is carried out on the same day that the interim certificate expires
according to Para 4.10.2 of MMC-359
In cases when LR carry out an initial verification after an intermediate verification overdue according to
Para [Link] of MMC-359.

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In all cases LR may issue a Short-Term Certificate (the certificate must be identified with the nomenclature
“Short Term”) and the validity should not exceed more than one (1) month so that the company operator
carry out the procedures with the Administration for the issuance of the Full Term ISSC.

The Maritime Ship Security Department have provided instructions regarding initial verification during the 6-
month validity period and renewal verification before the expiration of the ISSC certificate, according to which
the Administration will not grant authorisations to postpone initial, intermediate, and/or renewal audits for any
reason whatsoever.

If for a special circumstance the ISPS verification (Initial or Renewal Verification) cannot be completed within
the established window as indicated in the ISPS Code Part A/19.1.1, the operator company, owners,
recognised security organisation or legal representatives must apply prior to the expiration of the interim ISSC
or prior to the expiration of due date of the renewal verification window through the E-Platform selecting ISPS
authorisations option and shall submit the following documents:-

A statement issued by LR indicating the reason for not performing the verification and stating the exact
date and place where the ISPS Verification will take place.
Interim ISSC only if the extension requested is due to the initial verification.
ISSC Full term dully endorsed or intermediate verification report if the extension requested is to carry
out the renewal verification.
Document of Compliance Certificate.
A valid Conformance Test Report (CTR).

According to the ISPS Code Part A/19.3.5, the Administration will evaluate case-by-case and may extend the
period of validity of the Certificate for a period no longer than three (3) months.

Before the expiration of the three (3) months, the ISPS verification must be completed and the Company
Operator must immediately apply for the ISSC Full Term.

After the period mentioned above, LR cannot issue any certification to the vessel irrespective of whether ISPS
Verification have been completed or not.

In cases where the ISM/MLC/ISPS certificates are harmonised and the ISPS intermediate verification cannot
be completed during the window, LR must perform an initial verification, prior to the issuance of a Full Term
ISSC by the Administration, maintaining the same validity of the previous certificate.

Starting 15th March 2025, for the issuance of the International Ship Security Certificate (Full Term ISSC) must
maintain a valid Conformance Test Report in accordance with the provisions of MMC-195 (May 2025).

Interim audits

LR is fully authorised to perform Interim ISSC audits, and to issue the Interim ISSC valid for six months only.
The Administration does not permit the issue of a second interim certificate, except as permitted by MMC-
359 when the RSO changes a new Interim ISSC is to be issued with 6 months validity. LR must coordinate
with the operator/owner to complete all the inspections/audit or visits during the validity of the interim ISSC
(no more than six months validity) taking into consideration that the Company operator needs to apply to the
Administration for the Full Term ISSC to be issued before the expiry of the Interim Certificate.

Intermediate Audits

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LR is fully authorised to perform Intermediate ISSC audits and endorse ISSC certificates. If Intermediate ISPS
audits coincides with a COF to Panama, then it should be treated and reported as an Initial audit.

All audit reports must be submitted to the Administration (isps@[Link] and ro-panama@[Link])
as soon as possible by the relevant MMSO, but no later than 30 days from the date of audit.. Further
information on RSO monthly reporting is provided in Reporting General.

When the Intermediate verification is not carried out in accordance with the requirements of the ISPS Code,
the full term ISSC will be immediately cancelled by the Administration In accordance with ISPS Code Part A
19.3.8.

Guidelines for Requesting Authorisation for an Additional ISPS Audit

LR must submit the request for authorisation to carry out additional ISPS audits to the Administration by email
(see contact details below). The request must state the name of the vessel, IMO number, call sign, date of
detention and Port State Control detention report. In cases where the additional audit is not due to Port State
Control deficiencies, LR must state the reason/s for the additional audit.

LR must send a copy of the additional audit report as soon as possible to the Administration along with the
necessary corrective actions.

Contact Details - Monday to Friday 8.30am -8.00pm

PSC section:

Phone: +507 501 5031/501 5033


Mobile: +507 6655 2382
Fax: +507 501 5083
Email: isps@[Link]

Fees and Reporting

Monthly reportings and additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates and for
SSP approval, as per Merchant Marine Circular MMC-324. See Certification General and Reporting
General sections for further details.

Registration of Company Security Officers (CSO)

Please refer to Sec 4.6 of MMC-123 for requirements relating to the recognition of Company Security Officers.

Starting from September 1st, 2017 LR should verify during any ISPS Verifications, that the CSO has the
Declaration of Company Security Officer duly endorsed by Panama Maritime Authority. LR is to indicate the
name of the CSO in the Audit Report in accordance with chapter XI2 of SOLAS and part A.6 Obligations of
the Company of the ISPS code. Starting September 1, 2025, the online application for CSO Endorsement will
be available on the E-Segumar website.

Change of RSO

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If the Initial audit was not carried out by LR, the subsequent audit report will confirm the scope of Intermediate
is equal to an Initial audit

Ship Protection Measures for Vessels Entering High Risk Areas

The Administration has issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-230 (Rev. Oct 2025) with their requirements
and recommendations for ships entering High Risk Areas.

Use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on board Panamanian Vessels

For requirements relating to the use of privately contracted armed security personnel on board Panamanian
vessels see Merchant Marine Circular MMC-245 (Rev. Sept 2025).

Authorised Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSC) transiting High Risk Areas

A list of PMSC authorised by the Administration to offer their services as privately contracted armed security
personnel onboard Panamanian flagged vessels transiting High Risk Areas can be found in MMC-245. Please
also refer to Merchant Marine Circular MMC-243 (Rev. Aug 2025) in regard to requirements for the
accreditation of Private Security Companies on board Panamanian flagged vessels, as well as the documents
that must be presented to maintain their accreditation.

Stowaways

For guidance regarding the subject of stowaways refer to Sec 4.9 of MMC-123.

SSAS Exemption

Starting September 1, 2025, the SSAS exemption must be requested according to Section 4.8 of MMC-
123. The interim SSAS exemption certificate will be valid for the period of validity of the interim ISSC issued
by LR. However, once the ISPS verification audit has been carried out according to the ISPS
Code/Reg.19.1.1 and the Administration has already issued the International Ship Security Certificate (FULL
TERM ISSC); the operating company should request the permanent SSAS exemption certificate that will be
valid for the period of validity of the Full Term ISSC. Please refer to Section 4.8 of MMC-123 for further
information.

SSAS Alert Testing

The SSAS Test must be sent to the Administration in accordance with Merchant Marine Circular MMC-133
(Aug 2025).

Security Drills

The security drill must take place every 3 months and may be part of safety drill with a security component in
accordance with MMC-133. Before entering a High Risk area a security drill should be conducted. Please also
refer to Sec 4.7 of MMC-123 for further information on Security Drills.

Continuous Synopsis Record

The Administration have issued MMC-183 (Rev. Nov 2025) to establish the requirements for the issuance of
the Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR), as well as the Administration's policies regarding the information that
the CSR must contain.
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Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT)

The details regarding Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) of Ships can be found in MMC-195.

Anti-Piracy Measures

The Administration has issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-230 (Rev. Oct 2025).

Security Information Issue by Flag

The flag issues Merchant Marine Circulars containing security information. For the latest information issued by
the flag, please see here.

Ship Security Officer

The requirements for a Ship Security Officer can be found in Sec 4.5 of MMC-123.

Security Levels and Declaration of Security (DoS)

The requirements can be found in Sec 4.4 of MMC-123.

Chemical Codesㅤㅤ
LR is to investigate which of the certificates issued by LR needs to be reissued in accordance with MSC
Resolution 219(82) / MEPC Resolution 166(56), and to coordinate with the operators of the vessels to reissue
the certificates.

If a certificate does not need to be reissued, LR should issue a statement indicating that the Certificate is still
valid, as the revision of the IBC/BCH Code and MARPOL Annex II does not affect the current cargo list
attached to the certificate. This statement should be placed onboard with the certificate. For certificates which
do not need to be reissued, the new revision number will be reflected in the certificate when it is next issued.

LR is to re-issue any:

IBC Certificates as per the instructions in MMC-200, following the amendments to the IBC Code
outlined in Resolution MEPC.318(74) and Resolution MSC.460(101).
BCH Certificates as per the instructions in MMC-200, following the amendments to the BCH Code
outlined in Resolution MEPC.319(74) and Resolution MCS.463(101).
Procedures and Arrangement (P&A) Manuals as per the instructions in MMC-200.

Gas Codesㅤㅤ
No notified technical requirements.

IMSBC Codeㅤㅤ
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LR is fully authorised to issue IMSBC Code certificates on behalf of the Administration.

For more information regarding Panamas implementation of IMSBC please see Merchant Marine Circular
MMC-214 (December 2023).

The Administration have adopted the amendments established in Resolution MSC.539(107) of June 8, 2023,
relating to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code) for Panama registered vessels,
which entered into force on 01 January 2025 via Resolution No.107-OMI-293-DGMM (English & Spanish
version).

Carriage of Dangerous Goodsㅤㅤ


Panama does not consider MSC/Circ.608 mandatory however compliance is recommended.

Adequate natural ventilation for 'Ro-Ro cargo spaces' open at one end only, as defined in SOLAS 74 Ch II-2
Regulation 3.15, may be provided by permanent openings in the side plating or deck head of not less than 10
per cent or the area of the side plating. Openings should be placed as far forward as possible.

Cargo Securing Manualsㅤㅤ


CSS Code Annex 14

The Administration have issued MMC-340 which requires new vessels with keels laid from 1 July 2017 to
comply fully and existing vessels to comply with parts of the Annex.

MODU Codeㅤㅤ
Each MODU afloat or supported on the sea-bed, whose operation conditions mainly consist in being either on
location for the purpose of conducting drilling operation, or in transit moving from one geographical location to
another, is to be subject to an Annual Safety Inspection (ASI), which is to be carried out by an authorised Flag
State Surveyor.

When the ASI is due at the same time as another Class or statutory survey, the owners/operators are to allow
both the ASI inspector and the LR surveyor on board. However, when the ASI inspector is not able to attend
the vessel, the Administration may authorise an Alternate Compliance Program. This Program will require the
LR surveyor to check SOLAS/MODU Code/Note 1/86 certificates. Once this has been completed and the
Class or statutory survey has been completed, the surveyor is to send their survey report to the
Administration. National documents such as the Certificate of Registration, Payment receipt of Annual Taxes,
Certificate of Inspection Crew Accommodation, Crew Accommodation Survey Report, Record of Approval
Crew Accommodation Details, Radio Station License, and copy of the validation of both Crew Roll List and
Panamanian Official Log Book are to be submitted to the Administration to prove the unit meets those national
standards.

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The Administration may accept an alternative to the Alternate Compliance Program. This alternative consists
of authorising qualified personnel from the offshore company (for example the owner/operator) to act on
behalf of the Administration to carry out the ASI on board the unit. If the company wishes to undertake this
alternative, they must contact the Administration.

For specific requirements related to in-water surveys of MODU's please refer to information under SAFCON
section.

The Administration has issued Circular 108 on the Publications and Records required onboard non-self and
self-propelled Mobile Offshore and Offshore Support Vessels.

MOU Certification

When issuing certification for MOUs Form# 1718PAN should be used.

Please refer to Merchant Marine Circular MMC-150 (March 2024) for information regarding Panamas MOU
Annual Safety Inspection Program

Special Purpose Ship Codeㅤㅤ


Information on the Panama requirements for the SPS Code 2008 can be found in MMC 288.

Industrial Personnel Code (IP Code)ㅤㅤ


Information on the Panama requirements for the International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial
Personnel (IP Code) which applies from 01 July 2024 can be found in MMC 401.

Since there is a special consideration as stated in Reg. 3, Chapter XV, SOLAS, for existing cargo ships and
high-speed cargo craft that before the entry into force of the new SOLAS Chapter XV and the IP Code are
authorized by the flag to carry more than 12 Industrial Personnel, subject to an assessment performed by the
Recognized Organization before July 1, 2024, according to the provisions of Resolution MSC.418(97); the
Administration has instructed LR to issue a "Statement of Fact/Compliance" not on behalf of the
Administration (on behalf of LR), covering the assessment of the vessels according to the circumstance (SPS
Certified or not SPS Certified).

Please make sure to request the authorization letter by contacting any Segumar Office of convenience (Refer
to MMC-18-2021 for swift reference) in those cases where vessels are not certified under the SPS Code.

High Speed Craft Codeㅤㅤ


Dynamically Supported Craft Code

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If LR is authorised to issue a certificate / statement on behalf of the flag, it is to be issued on behalf of Lloyd's
Register Group Limited. Surveyors will need to change their signature block so they are working for Lloyd's
Register Group Limited rather than their usual entity. This can be done manually in Forms2, and this will then
also automatically update the header in the certificate/statement too.

Diving Systems Codeㅤㅤ


Panama is not a signatory party to the Diving Safety System Code. A Diving System Certificate is not to be
issued on behalf of Panama.

However, when an owner/operator requests voluntary application of this Code on a Panama flag vessel, LR
may issue a LR Statement of Compliance.

Stabilityㅤㅤ
Resolution MSC.281(85)

Panama has implemented Resolution MSC.281(85).

Loadlineㅤㅤ
At each change of loadline a surveyor must attend the ship.

The Administration is no longer accepting Loadline marks in Spanish. Loadline marks shall be in English only.
For a new construction, the new letters should be applied immediately and for existing vessels the change
over can be made at the next dry-docking.

Disc Letters: LR
Grid Letters:

Freeboard grid letters Timber freeboard grid letters

TF LTF

F LF

T LT

S LS

W LW

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WNA LWNA

Multiple Load Line Certificates

LR is authorised to issue multiple load line certificates in accordance with Merchant Marine Circular MMC-
391.

Tonnageㅤㅤ
On completion of the tonnage measurement, an Interim Tonnage Certificate with a maximum validity of six
months may be issued.

The Administration have issued MMC 67 (July 2023) on the Issuance of Tonnage Certificates.

Ships less than 24m

Ships less than 24m in Length (as defined in Art.2(8) of the International Tonnage Convention 1969) are
required to be measured and issued with a tonnage certificate. The Administration has the exclusive
responsibility for the determination of gross and net tonnages and the issuance of Certificates for vessels less
than 24m in Length. The Owners of such ships are to contact SEGUMAR Offices. LR may then be authorised
to measure the ship and issue a certificate on a case-by-case basis.

Change of Flag

For vessels changing Flag to Panama, the required tonnage certificate is to be issued via tso-precontract-
emea@[Link]. Then, the TSO will contact SEGUMAR Panama for the endorsement. Please refrain to start the
process with Panama Consulates.

Change of Name / Loss of Original Tonnage Certificate

LR is not authorised to alter Certificates where there is a change of name, or issue a replacement certificate,
due to loss of the original. Owners may contact SEGUMAR Offices in these cases.

Major Conversion affecting the ITC69

As per MMC 67 (July 2023) - 5.3.1 the term "alterations or modifications which the Administration deems to
be a substantial variation in their existing gross tonnage" should be interpreted as per TM.5/Circ.6 to mean
"an increase or decrease of more than 1% in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the 1969
Tonnage Convention”. Any ship suffering such an increase or decrease of more than 1% in its gross tonnage
shall be subject to re-calculation and new statutory certificates shall reflect its new measurements at the
earliest opportunity.

In case that an increase or decrease is 1% or less in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the
1969 Tonnage Convention then a re-calculation and change of the vessels’ measurement is not required.

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However, the existing International Tonnage Certificate shall be re-issued and annotated with details of the
new structure and the effect it has on the vessel tonnage, if any, and at the earliest opportunity.

Panama Canal

Panama Canal do not require PC/UMS certificates for vessels that are under 100 feet in LOA. If the vessel is
more than 100 feet in LOA and the measured PC/UMS tonnage is less than 584, then the Panama Canal
authorities do not require a PC/UMS tonnage certificate.

MARPOL Annex Iㅤㅤ


LR is authorised to issue the interim statement of compliance with the Condition Assessment Scheme (CAS).
(Form 4003) For information relating to the CAS see Marine Circular No. 143.

SOPEP

LR is authorised to approve SOPEPs.

Oil Record Book

All oil tankers that are 150 GT or more are to carry on board an Oil Record Book Part I and Part II. All
other ships that are 400 GT or more are to carry on board an Oil Record Book Part I. In addition, all ships that
are 400 GT or more are to carry on board an Ozone Depleting Substances Record Book. The Administration
has collected these Record Books into the "Oil Record Book and Emissions" (Revised Edition 2013) which is
to be carried on board Panamanian vessels. This Oil Record Book and Emissions contains:

Part I - Machinery Space Operations (All ships);


Part II - Cargo and Ballast Operations (Tankers*);
Part III - Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (All Ships) which includes
instructions for actions carried out on board in relation to:

1.1 Ozone Depleting Substances

1.2 Low sulphur fuel oil

1.3 Vapor collection system (in tanker)

1.4 Incinerators

* A non-tanker carrying more than 200 cubic metres of oil in bulk as cargo must also maintain a Part II
Oil Record Book.

Vessels which have on board a previous editions of the Oil Record Book can continue to use old editions by
pasting the new instructions into these old editions to bring it into line with Resolution MEPC.187(59).

When making entries in the Oil Record Book and Emissions (or Oil Record Book), the date, operational letter
code and item number is to be inserted in the appropriate columns and the required particulars are to be
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recorded chronologically in the blank spaces. Care must be taken to ensure that the narrative record entry
accurately identifies the exact operation which has been carried out. Supporting relevant information such as
quantity, time, position, reference to receipts for disposal, etc. must be included, as appropriate. Any receipts
which are referenced should be attached to the Oil Record Book and Emissions or readily available for review.

Please refer to MMC-215 for further requirements regarding Oil Record Book and Emissions.

As per MMC-177 all oil tankers of less than 150 GT shall have onboard the Panamanian official Oil Record
Book and Emissions.

STS operations Plan

LR is authorised to approve the STS operations Plan. STS operation plans shall be developed according to
the latest best practice guidelines identified by IMO.

The Administration have published MMC-217 (Aug 2025) to inform all ship owners/operators regarding the
new requirements established for Ship to Ship (STS) Operations concerning Panamanian Oil Tankers of 150
GRT and above.

Operators have been advised to update the Ship-to-Ship transfer operations plan (STS) to include notification
to flag state (through the E-Segumar Platform) of when and where they participate in such
transfers, especially when they are engaged in a mid-ocean STS transfer.

All the Panamanian flagged oil tankers must maintain valid and updated Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR)
and Conformance Test Report (CTR) on board at the time of notifying the STS operations. Failure to comply
with the aforementioned will result denying the authorisation for STS operations until compliance is
demonstrated.

The STS transfer notification shall include the following information as listed under Paragraph 6.6 of MMC-
217:

Name, flag, call sign, IMO Number, and estimated time of arrival of the oil tankers involved in the STS
transfer operation.
Date, time, and geographical position of the commencement of the planned STS transfer operation.
Mode in which the STS transfer operation will be carried out: at anchor or underway.
Type of oil and its quantity.
Expected duration of the STS transfer operation.
Identification and contact information (email, telephone number) of the Designated Person Ashore
(DPA) of each oil tanker involved in the STS operation.
Confirmation that the oil tanker has on board an STS operations Plan complying with the requirements
of regulation 41, Annex I, MARPOL Convention.

The updated STS Operations Plan shall be revised by LR no later than the first annual, intermediate, or
renewal survey of the International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPPC), whichever occurs first, after
06 August 2025, to verify that the information listed in Paragraph 6.6 of MMC-217 has been included.

Material Safety Data Sheets

Panama is implementing Resolution MSC.286(86).

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MARPOL Annex IIㅤㅤ


LR is to re-issue any BCH Certificates as per the instructions in MMC-200, following the amendments to
MARPOL Annex II outlined in Resolution MEPC.315(74).

LR is to re-issue any Procedures and Arrangement (P&A) Manuals as per the instructions in MMC-200.

Tripartite Agreements in Compliance with Regulation 6.3

Where it is intended that a ship will carry a cargo which has not been categorised under Regulation 6.1, all
Governments involved are required to establish and agree a provisional assessment. Such cargoes can not
be carried until full agreement has been reached by all governments involved. All correspondence on the
carriage of such cargoes is to be directed to Eng. José Luís Ortega at jortega@[Link].

Exemption provisions of Regulation 4.1.3

The Panama Maritime Authority supports the exemption provisions of Regulation 4.1.3 of MARPOL Annex II.
LR is to proceed according to the requirements and specifications required in the revised Annex II and IBC
Code.

All applications for the exemption are to be submitted to the Panama Maritime Authority headquarters in
Panama. The following documents are to be submitted to the Administration:

Form of Application for the exemption certificate.


Copy of the certificate of Fitness for the carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (CoF).
LR statement indicating that the vessel is in compliance with all the technical requirements applicable
under Regulation 4.1.3.
Steel Plan, showing Midship section (or transverse section or tank arrangements), Capacity Plan.
Declaration of Product with the full particulars specified by the operator (ISM).

LHNS Guidelines - IMO Resolution A.673(16)ㅤㅤ


An Addendum Form# 2224NS should also be issued as necessary.

LR is to re-issue any BCH Certificates as per the instructions in MMC-200, following the amendments to
MARPOL Annex II outlined in Resolution MEPC.315(74).

LR is to re-issue any Procedures and Arrangement Manuals as per the instructions in MMC-200.

Dynamically Supported Craft Code

If LR are authorised to issue a certificate/statement on behalf of the flag, it is to be issued on behalf of Lloyd's
Register Group Limited. Surveyors will need to change their signature block so they are working for Lloyd's
Register Group Limited rather than their usual entity. This can be done manually in Forms2, and this will then
also automatically update the header in the certificate/statement too.

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MARPOL Annex IVㅤㅤ


For requirements relating to the discharge of untreated sewage at sea, see MMC 168 (May 2022).

MARPOL Annex Vㅤㅤ


No notified technical requirements.

MARPOL Annex VIㅤㅤ


Additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates. See Certification General
> Fees.

VOC Management Plan

LR is authorised to carry out the revision and approval of VOC Management Plans. Resolution MEPC.185(59)
is to be used as guidance for the development of the plan.

Oil Record Book

All oil tankers of 150 GT and above are to carry on board an Oil Record Book Part I and Part II. All
other ships of 400 GT and aboveare to carry on board an Oil Record Book Part I. In addition, all ships of 400
GT and above are to carry on board an Ozone Depleting Substances Record Book. The Administration has
collected these Record Books into the "Oil Record Book and Emissions" (Revised Edition 2010) which is to be
carried on board Panamanian vessels. This Oil Record Book and Emissions contains:

Part I - Machinery Space Operations (All ships);


Part II - Cargo and Ballast Operations (Tankers*);
Part III - Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (All Ships) (this contains instructions
for the necessary information to be included in relation to ozone depleting substances and low sulphur
oil and the relevant information to be recorded when the Vapour Collection System has been used,
including the use of the incinerator).

*A non-tanker carrying more than 200 cubic metres of oil in bulk as cargo must also maintain a Part II Oil
Record Book.

Vessels which have on board a previous edition of the Oil Record Book (Revised Edition 2009) can continue
to use the old edition by pasting the new instructions into this old edition to bring it into line with Resolution
MEPC.187(59).

When making entries in the Oil Record Book and Emissions (or Oil Record Book), the date, operational letter
code and item number is to be inserted in the appropriate columns and the required particulars are to be
recorded chronologically in the blank spaces. Care must be taken to ensure that the narrative record entry
accurately identifies the exact operation which has been carried out. Supporting relevant information such as

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quantity, time, position, reference to receipts for disposal, etc. must be included, as appropriate. Any receipts
which are referenced should be attached to the Oil Record Book and Emissions or readily available for review.

For entries relating to ozone depleting substances, the operational code is to indicate that the entry relates to
Part III. Refer to Part III of the Oil Record Book and Emissions for further details. Each entry relating to an
operation that has been carried out is to be signed and dated by the officer or officers in charge of the
operation. Each page is to be signed by the Master of the ship.

Quality and Sampling of fuel oil for compliance with MARPOL Annex VI / Reg.18

Please refer to Merchant Marine Circular MMC-224 (Rev. Sept 2025) for further information and details.

Ship Implementation Plan for the consistent implementation of the 0.5% Sulphur Limit

The Administration strongly recommends that implementation plans are developed in order to comply with the
0.5% sulphur content limit from 1 January 2020. This is not a mandatory requirement. See MMC 375. Ship
owners unable to purchase compliant fuel should complete a Fuel Oil Non-Availability Report (FONAR). There
is a link to the standard report form in MMC 375.

MARPOL Annex VI/Reg.12 - Ozone Depleting Substances

The Administration has issued MMC 376 with instructions on the requirements for ozone depleting
substances.

ECGS Malfunction

MMN-11-2019 provides guidance on Indication of Ongoing Compliance in the Case of the Failure of a Single
Monitoring Instrument, and Recommended Actions to Take if the Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) Fails
to Meet the Provisions of the 2015 EGCS Guidelines (Resolution MEPC.259(68)). An EGCS malfunction
event should be included in the EGCS Record Book including the date and time the malfunction began and, if
relevant, how it was resolved, the actions taken to resolve it and any necessary follow-up actions. A system
malfunction that cannot be rectified is regarded as an accidental breakdown. The ship should then change
over to compliant fuel oil if the EGCS cannot be put back into a compliant condition within one hour. If the ship
does not have compliant fuel oil or sufficient amount of compliant fuel oil on board, a proposed course of
action, in order to bunker compliant fuel oil or carry out repair works, should be communicated to relevant
authorities including the Administration, for their agreement.

EGCS Approvals

The flag require that the following documents issued and approved by LR should be submitted to the
Administration to authorizations@[Link], rhernandez@[Link] and hpastor@[Link], to
obtain the correspondent acceptance letter, thus facilitating the report to the IMO:

1. SOX Emission Compliance Certificate


2. Washwater sample data
3. pH Recovery Document
4. Survey Report
5. EGC Record Book
6. ETM-B or A
7. SECP (B or A)
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8. SECC-A
9. Approval certificate or letter issued by the RO/Class.
10. Nitrates sample laboratory result (as soon as a result is received, it is not mandatory to receive
approval)

Energy Efficiency Regulations

The Administration has published MMC-365 (Feb 2025) on its policy on SEEMP, IMO-DCS and Carbon
Intensity Indicator.

Authorisation

SEEMP Part II - DCS - LR is authorised to undertake SEEMP Part II verification and DCS reporting for
both LR Class and non LR Classed ships.
SEEMP III - CII - LR is authorised to verify SEEMP Part III and CII calculations for both LR Class and
non LR Classed ships.
EEDI/EEXI - LR is authorsed to verify the EEDI/EEXI technical file for LR Classed Ships only. See
MMC 257 (Oct 2022).

Note: MMC-365 provides the following clarification on reporting ship categories when submitting
data into GISIS:

1. 'Cruise Passenger Ship' or 'Ro-Ro Passenger Ship'.


2. 'Passenger Ship' under the category of 'Passenger Ship'.
3. Tankers, particularly 'Chemical Tankers' and 'Product Tankers' shall be reported under the
'Tankers' category.

Certificates/Statements to be issued

Upon successful verification LR may issue:

Confirmation of Compliance (CoC) for Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP Part II)
(Form# 3201PAN / 3201NPAN) on behalf of the Flag Administration.
Confirmation of Compliance (CoC) - SEEMP Part III (Form# 3200PAN / 3200NPAN) on behalf of the
Flag Administration.

Note 1:

LR is not authorised to issue the SoC on Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting and Carbon Intensity
Rating. LR must issue a Recommendation to the Administration for the issuance of an SoC by
emailing imo-dcs@[Link] (see MMC-365 Section [Link] for details of submission).

Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)

The Administration has issued MMC-257 (Oct 2022) on the implementation of EEDI and EEXI. LR is
authorised to issue the International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC) on behalf of Panama, carry out the

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verification process of the attained EEDI and attained EEXI calculations, based on the correspondent
Technical File, for LR classed ships only.

LR shall report for each ship subject to Required EEDI via electronic to IMO the required and attained EEDI
values and related information.

Reporting of Engine Power Limitation (EPL) / Shaft Power Limitation (SHaPoLi) override activation

Any use of a power reserve should be recorded on the record page of the OMM for SHaPoLi/EPL, signed by
the master, and should be kept on board. The record should include the information shown in the Appendix of
Res. MEPC.375(80).

Early Implementation of amendments to Appendix IX of MARPOL Annex VI

The Administration has communicated its decision on early implementation of the amendments to Appendix
IX of MARPOL Annex VI concerning the information to be submitted to the IMO Ship Fuel Oil Consumption
Database (IMO Resolution MEPC.385(81)).

Section [Link] of MMC-365 states that the Administration encourages ship Owners and Operators to
voluntarily implement the amendments to Appendix IX concerning the information to be submitted to the IMO
Ship Fuel Oil Consumption Database (IMO Resolution MEPC.385(81) starting from 1 January 2025. Hence
the SEEMP Part II should be revised in consequence before such a date, and the data to be collected and
reported as per MEPC.1/Circ.913.

For those ships not early implementing the amendment of Appendix IX, the SEEMP shall undergo verification
to incorporate the new required information/methodology before 1 January 2026 and the data will be collected
and reported as per MEPC.1/Circ.913, considering the entry into force of [Link].385(81) on 1 August
2025.

NOx Codeㅤㅤ
Additional fees are to be charged for the endorsement or issue of certificates. See Certification General
> Fees.

The Administration highlighted the communications released by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and the IHI
Corporation regarding the serious incident involving the Companies' Marine Diesel Engines. Internal
investigations confirmed evidence of data manipulation during sea trials. The manipulation involved altering
the fuel consumption rates to keep values within the permissible range of customer specifications and to
reduce data discrepancies. More details are provided in the letters (Kawasaki and IHI Corporation), as linked.

LR, where acting as the Recognized Organizations responsible for the issuance of the Engine International
Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (EIAPP), is to note of the information in the report/letter released by the
engine manufacturers and contact the Administration in case ships installed with engines manufactured by
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. in January 2000 and later.

The IHI Corporation has highlighted that the misconduct was confirmed to have occurred at Niigata Engine
Plant and Ohta Plant where engines are manufactured, but further clarifications and rectifications are under
development.
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Anti Fouling Systemsㅤㅤ


LR is fully authorised for issuing International Anti-Fouling System Certificate (AFS).

Ballast Water Managementㅤㅤ


LR is authorised to carry out initial surveys for the BWM Convention and issue interim certification, with full
term IBWM Certificates being subsequently issued by Panama Maritime Authority (PMA).

LR shall issue Interim International Ballast Water Management Certificate valid for a period of maximum five
(5) months, after satisfactory completion of the correspondent initial or renewal survey. Annual / Intermediate
endorsements are not to be completed on the Interim IBWM Certificates.

Endorsement of corresponding Annual or Intermediate Surveys shall be carried out by LR, after satisfactory
completion of the survey. Pursuant to Section 9.2 of MMC-345, all endorsements done by LR to an
International Ballast Water Management Certificate (IBWMC) issued by the Administration, must be notified
no later than 30 days after conducting the survey by sending an email to ibwmc@[Link]. Such
notification must contain a copy of the endorsed certificate attached along with the following information:-

Type of endorsement
Responsible Surveyor
Responsible RO
Place of Survey
Date of Survey

Every endorsement and conditional of an IBWMC must be reported and paid in accordance with MMC-324.

The PMA requires ballast water management plans (BWMP) to be submitted to them for approval. Any
BWMP which was previously approved by LR (or other ROs) as compliant with IMO Resolution A.868(20), will
remain valid and will not need re-approval by PMA until the BWMS is to be installed. BWMPs which were
previously approved by LR (or other ROs) as compliant with the later guidelines in IMO Resolution
MEPC.127(53), will need to be reapproved in all cases.

Ship-owners and ship-operators should access E-Segumar Application to apply for the BWMP approval and
the issuance of full term BWM Certificate.

The Administration have published MMC-345 (Feb 2025) on Ballast Water Management Convention 2004,
Panama Policy.

As per Para 7.7.2 of MMC 345, LR surveyor is to provide the shipowner/shipmanager with a copy of a
completed survey report form.

As Flag will issue the full term certificate, it is the Owner's choice whether or not the BWM surveys are not
shown on the vessel's survey status. If the BWM surveys are not to be shown on the vessel's survey status,
then Surveyors are to report the survey using a miscellaneous survey code.

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Ships Operating in Challenging Water Quality (CWQ) Conditions

As per Para 6.11 of MMC 345, Under special circumstances where vessels encounter challenging
water quality, it is recommended that the BWMP incorporates guidelines from MEPC.387(81), which provides
interim guidance on the application of the BWM Convention for ships operating in such conditions. The
increasing number of ports enforcing environmental regulations highlights the importance of adhering to these
guidelines. Should the vessel face challenges related to muddy or other adverse water conditions, the Master
must promptly notify this Administration and local authorities to ensure compliance and operational safety.

Temporary Storage of Treated Sewage and/or Grey Water in Ballast Water Tanks

As per Para 6.12 of MMC 345, when vessels are required to use ballast tanks temporarily for treated sewage
and/or grey water, it is advisable to include BWM.2/Circ.82 guidance within the BWMP. This circular supports
the safe management and temporary storage of these waters in ballast tanks, accommodating the stricter
regulations imposed at various ports. If such storage becomes necessary, the Master is obligated to inform
this Administration and relevant local authorities, documenting each instance to maintain full transparency and
compliance.

Approval of Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP)

As per Para 6.13 of MMC 345, In cases where the BWMP requires the inclusion of Resolution MEPC.387(81)
or BWM.2/Circ.82, it must be promptly updated to incorporate these guidelines. This update is not considered
as a significant or regular amendment, so no additional charges will apply. Once updated, please submit the
revised BWMP via email to bwmp@[Link] to esnure the Administration's system records are
accurately updated.

Harmonisation of Certificates

As per Para 7.10 of MMC 345, Since the entry into force of the International Ballast Water Convention 2004,
de-harmonisation of the IOPP Certificate should not be conducted, as a result of the installation of the Ballast
Water Treatment System is aligned to the IOPP Certificate Renewal Survey. International Ballast Water
Management Certificate (IBWMC) and International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPPC) should be
harmonised as per Para 4.8 of MMC 345.

A Non-Applicability Statement of Fact must be issued by LR for ships that are not subject to the
applicability of the BWM Convention, as specified in Article 3.2(a) and (f). This Non-Applicability Statement of
Fact should be reported to the Administration by sending an email to ibwmc@[Link] and
bwmp@[Link].

See National regulations section for national Ballast Water Management requirements.

International Ballast Water Management Certificates (IBWMC)

Where Flag issue the ballast water certification for the vessel, Surveyors are to include the expiry date of the
IOPP cert in the survey narrative.

Ballast Water Management Systems

The Administration have issued MMC-362 which lists companies with type approved Ballast Water
Management Systems.
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D-2 STANDARD BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - COMPLIANCE DEADLINE

The Administration have issued MMN 09/2024 (Aug 2024) to provide information about the mandatory
enforcement on board all Panamanian vessels of the International Ballast Water Convention (BWMC)
requirements, regarding the installation of the Ballast Water Management Treatment System according to the
Regulation D-2, no later than September 8th, 2024.

All existing vessels subject to Ballast Water Management Convention shall have onboard an approved Ballast
Water Management Treatment System installed in compliance with the D-2 regulation between September
8th, 2019 and September 8th, 2024. It is understood that vessels constructed on or after September 8th of
2017, shall meet the D-2 standard immediately.

In order to prevent PSC Deficiencies, the Administration encourages ship owners, operators, Recognized
Organizations and masters to take into account the content in Resolution MEPC.252(67) adopted on October
17th, 2014 Guidelines for Port State Control under the BWM Convention to ensure compliance with the
Convention.

If the Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) is found inoperative the master or owner of the ship shall
report at the earliest opportunity to the Administration on the email addresses as follows:

1. ibwmc@[Link]
2. internationaloffices@[Link]

The surveyor (LR) responsible for issuing the relevant certificate shall investigate and determine whether an
additional survey is necessary. If the ship is in a port of another Contracting Government, the master or owner
shall also report immediately to the appropriate authorities of the Port State and the nominated surveyor or LR
shall ascertain that such a report has been made.

Ship Owners/Masters are respectfully reminded to keep on-board copy of this Merchant Marine Notice. DPA
or Management Company must be aware that in the event of PSC Inspection an infringement, contravention,
and/or non-compliance of BWM Convention are found; sanctions will be imposed by the Administration
according to the national legislation.

Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) Commissioning Test

As per Para 5 of MMC 345 - Instructions for the commissioning test for Ballast Water Management Systems
(BWMS), given the adoption of the [Link].325(75) amending regulation E-1 and its entry into force by 1
June 2022, LR is to verify that:

At the initial survey before the ship is put in service or before the Certificate required under regulation
E-2 or E-3 is issued for the first time, a commissioning test has been conducted to validate the
installation of any BWMS by demonstrating that its mechanical, physical, chemical and biological
processes are working properly, taking into account the 2020 Guidance for the commissioning testing of
BWMS (BWM.2/Circ.70/Rev.1), as may be amended.
If the indicative analysis testing results as noncomplying, then a detailed analysis should be conducted,
using as reference the Guideline content in BWM.2/Circ.42/Rev.2. Indicative analysis and detail
analysis are defined in BWM.2/Circ.42/Rev.2, as may be amended.
Laboratories used for detailed analysis (if required) should be accepted or approved by LR.

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Commissioning test should not apply to ships that had already a BWMS installed and certified for D-2
standard, unless it undergoes an upgrade or change to a major component (those components that
directly affect the ability of the system to meet the ballast water performance standard described in
regulation D-2) or newly nstalled BWMS. In these cases an additional survey is undertaken, and this
survey shall confirm that a commissioning test has been conducted to validate the installation of the
system by demonstrating that its mechanical, physical, chemical and biological processes are working
properly, taking into account the 2020 Guidance for the commissioning testing of BWMS
(BWM.2/Circ.70/Rev.1), as may be amended.
In cases were the sampling analysis for indicative analysis test is not possible to conduct during the
ship's commissioning test (e.g. salinity of ambient water is outside the System Design Limitations of the
BWMS, lack of equipment for indicative analysis required), the Administration is to be informed and the
RO responsible for the IBWMC surveys to authorize the issuance of a Conditional Certificate.

MODUs and Ballast Water Management

As indicated in regulation A-3.5, the requirements of regulation B-3 'Ballast Water Management for Ships'
(including D-2 standard), shall not apply to the discharge of Ballast Water and Sediments from a ship at the
same location where the whole of that Ballast Water and those Sediments originated and provided that no
mixing with unmanaged Ballast Water and Sediments from other areas has occurred. If mixing has occurred,
the Ballast Water taken from other areas is subject to Ballast Water Management (regulation B-3); therefore,
Mobile Offshore Units including Mobile Offshore Drilling Units should be surveyed and issued with an
International Ballast Water Management Certificate, according to regulations E-1 and E-2 of the Convention,
as applicable, this is in line to the IMO guideline BWM.2/Circ.46 - Application of the BWM Convention to
Mobile Offshore Units. As well as it is indicated SEUs and CSUs take on board ballast water and discharge it
for transit to other areas. The transit ballast water and sediments remaining in the preload and operational
ballast tanks of the mobile offshore units may be treated by an appropriately approved internal circulation
method. Other methods of ballast water management, capable of providing the same level of protection to the
environment, human health, property or resources as described in regulations B-3.1 to B-3.5 of the
Convention, may also be acceptable and should be included into the ship's Ballast Water Management Plan.

Ballast Water Record Book

Following the outcome of MEPC 80, the Marine Environment Protection Committee, through
BWM.2/Circ.80/Rev.1, adopted “Guidance on Ballast Water Registration and Reporting” to clarify the
registration and reporting process under the BWM Convention. The BWM Convention, which includes
guidance on completing the Ballast Water Record Book and an updated example of a ballast water
notification form. For further details, refer to Para 12 of MMC 345.

Contact Details

The Administration's Ballast Water Management team can be contacted on ibwmc@[Link] and
bwmp@[Link] from Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 16:00 hrs local time.

Fishing Vesselsㅤㅤ
The Administration have issued Fishing Vessel Safety Rules.

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The Administration have issued MMC-270 (Rev. Aug 2025) to inform the requirements applicable to fishing
vessel and other ships engaged in fishing related activities registered under Panama flag, according to the
responsibilities of the national authorities related to this issue.

A Statement of Compliance may be issued on behalf of the Administration.

Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

LR is not to provide any service for on behalf of or related to the Panama Administration for any of the vessels
listed in MMN-01-2020.

Ships below convention sizeㅤㅤ


Resolution No. 106-138-DGMM (10 September 2013) applies.

Cargo Ship Safety Certificate for ships under 500 GT

LR have been approved on a case-by-case basis for the issuance of Interim Cargo Ship Safety Certificate for
ships under 500 GT valid for five months. For issuance of Full Term Cargo Ship Safety Certificate for ships
under 500 GT, the request and applicable documentation (Interim Certificate, Survey Report and Record)
shall be sent to fullterm@[Link].

Following forms needs to be used and completed:

Interim Cargo Ship Safety Certificate Vessels under 500 GT (Form# 2901PAN).
Survey Report for the issue of a Cargo Ship Safety Certificate Vessels under 500 GT (Form#
2905PAN).
Record of Approved Cargo Ship Safety Details Vessels under 500 GT (Form# 2902PAN).

Full term certificate is to be issued by the flag only with a validity of two years subject to an intermediate
endorsement.

Cargo Ship Radiotelephony Certificate for ships under 300 GT

LR have been authorised on a case by case basis for the issuance of a Cargo Ship Radiotelephony
Certificate for ships under 300 GT valid for 5 months. For issuance of Full Term Cargo Ship Radiotelephony
Certificate for ships under 300 GT, the request and applicable documentation (Interim Certificate) shall be
sent to fullterm@[Link].

Form# 1773PAN should be used and completed.

Long Range Identification and Tracking of ships (LRIT)

For cargo ships of gross tonnage of 300 and above but of less than 500, compliance with the LRIT
requirements should be verified by confirming that a valid Conformance Test Report is on board at annual
surveys. Please refer to Section 4.12.5 of MMC-195 for further details.

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Crew Accommodation (ILO 92 & 133)ㅤㅤ


Every Panamanian flagged vessel of 500 GT and upward, constructed before August 20 of 2013, shall have
onboard, at all times, a Certificate of Inspection of Crew Accommodation (CICA), that shall be renewed after
four (4) years of validity, in order to verify full compliance with ILO Convention No.92 MMC-396-CICA-21-03-
2022-1 and Merchant Marine Circular MMC - 279.

The CICA does not apply to the following vessels:

a. Pleasure yachts not intended for commercial use.


b. Fishing vessels of less than 75 GT.
c. Vessels of any type and size that operate exclusively on ports, roads, rivers and estuaries.
d. Vessels without crew.

Fishing vessels will be required to comply with Part III of ILO Convention No. 126, while vessels of all other
types will be required to comply with Part III of ILO Convention No. 92.

On request of the Builder/Owner LR is authorised to carry out Initial and Renewal surveys and to issue an
INTERIM Certificate of Inspection valid for five months in respect of ILO 68, 92 and 126 using Form#
1375APAN. Please see DGGM-024-2014-UYCY and MMC-396-CICA-21-03-2022-1.

At survey, a Record Form# 1377PAN also to be completed together with the Survey Report Form# 1376PAN.

At all other surveys the Report Form# 1376PAN is to be completed.

1 Electronic Certificate issued for the Administration.

Copies of the Interim certificate Form# 1375APAN, Record Form# 1377PAN and Report Form# 1376PAN
are to be forwarded to LR Balboa by courier (no later than 1 month after these documents have been issued)
and in the case of initial and renewal surveys copies of the following, which are required by the authorities,
are to be reviewed in Panama.

For initial surveys:

General Arrangement
Crew sleeping rooms
Crew mess rooms
Public bathrooms
Certificate of Construction or Tonnage Certificate.

For renewal surveys:

General Arrangement.
Certificate of Construction or Tonnage Certificate.

Additionally, in all cases when Crew Accommodation survey is carried out, PDF copies of the following
documents should be forwarded to LR Balboa Port office:

Panamanian Certificate of Registry (Navigational Patent)


'Paz y Salvo' tax receipt confirming all owed taxes have been paid in full
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Copy of the payment check (if this was the payment method used)
A signed Request for Service Form (RFS) indicating the request of survey and issuance of a Crew
Accommodation Certificate (CICA). (Form# 2502 with the correct entity)

2 Panamanian Authorities will issue the electronic full Term Certificate valid for 4 years and send a copy
directly to the owners once it has been received by the Panamanian Authorities. A copy of the covering letter
will be sent to the office that did the survey. Note that the Authorities will not endorse the full term certificates
if the ship is not at "Paz y Salvo" i.e. owing taxes. Full fees are payable if a duplicate certificate is required.

The Panama Administration is the only entity authorised to extend the validity of certificates or to grant
exemptions.

According to Panama Maritime Authority Resolution JD 011-2005 the Crew Accommodation Certificate
becomes invalid in the following circumstances:

1. Change of Name
2. Change of number in the Certificate of Registry
3. Call letters
4. GRT
5. Dedicated Service
6. Any other change.

The procedure for dispensation of Certificate of Inspection of Crew Accommodation is provided in MMC-396-
CICA-21-03-2022-1.

LR is not authorised to amend the Panama Crew Accommodation Certificate.

The following procedure must be followed when any of these changes takes place:

1. Surveyors are NOT to endorse the existing certificate for any changes.
2. Issue an Interim Crew accommodation certificate ( Form 1375A Pan) valid for 5 months or the expiry
date of the existing certificate whichever is earlier.
3. Forward the following documents to LR Balboa immediately by courier (no later than one (1) month
after the documents have been issued).

a copy of the issued interim certificate to Balboa office in Panama


a copy of the existing Crew Accommodation Certificate without any amendment
a copy of New Certificate of Registry
a copy of Annual tax receipt

The client is to be charged fees as if this was a Renewal Certificate. See Certification General Fees.

Transfer of Class

If a vessel transfers Class to LR and there is a Certificate of Inspection of Crew Accommodation (CICA) on
board issued by the previous Class Society, there is no requirement for the CICA to be reissued by LR. The
CICA issued by the losing Class Society will remain valid therefore.

The client may however want the CICA to be reissued by LR. If the owner requests this, then a Crew
Accommodation survey should be carried out in accordance with the requirements noted above and an
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Interim Certificate should be issued, valid for five months.

Medicine Chest and Medical Equipment

The Administration have issued MMC-339 (Rev. Aug 2025) which requires the World Health Organisation's
International Medical Guide for Ships to be carried onboard and complied with. The medicines and medical
equipment shall be inspected within a period, not exceeding 12 months, by the designated medical officer on
board, who shall ensure that the labelling, expiry dates and conditions of storage of all medicines and
directions for their use are checked and all equipment is functioning as required. Medicines and medical
equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure that they have not passed their expiry dates.

Maritime Labour Conventionㅤㅤ


Adoption and Regulation of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC 2006, as
amended)

The Administration have published Merchant Marine Circular MMC-271 (Aug 2025) to communicate to the
users of Panamanian Registry, the regulations of the Republic of Panama and the Panama Maritime Authority
(PMA) by means of which the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006,
as amended), including 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2022 Amendments, have been adopted and regulated.

Vessels with a gross tonnage of 500 GT or more that are engaged in international voyages, and those with a
gross tonnage more than or equal to 500 GT operating from a port, or between ports from another country,
must have on board a copy of the Maritime Labour Convention and the Maritime Labour Certificate in addition
to the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (Parts I and II).

Vessels with a gross tonnage from 200 GT to 499 GT engaged in international voyages or voyages between
ports, may voluntarily request the Maritime Labour Certificate, for which compliance with all national
regulations shall be required.

LR is fully authorised to undertake Maritime Labour Convention inspections and is authorised to endorse the
DMLC Part II and to issue a Maritime Labour Certificate valid for five years from the date of completion of the
inspection on which this Certificate is based.

Owners must request a new DMLC Part I from the Administration using the web based application at E-
Segumar Platform and must prepare a new DMLC Part II to allow for the renewal of the Maritime Labour
Certificate if a vessel in possession of a Maritime Labour Certificate changes name or undergoes substantial
changes to the structure or equipment covered in Title 3, Standard A.3.1.

The DMLC Part II must include the vessel name, the IMO number and the gross tonnage in accordance with
the template provided by the Administration.

The Administration have issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-269 (Rev. March 2025) - which described the
certification process.

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Consolidated reports are required to be submitted to the Administration listing ships that have been certified.
These reports must contain the vessel's name, type and issuance date of the certificate. These reports will be
sent to the flag by MMS as the Administration do not want individual ship reports sent by the various LR field
offices. The Administration do not require copies of vessel inspection reports

Electronic copies of MLC's are to be sent to the Administration by the MMSO/CF03 controlling offices. These
should be sent to the address given below.

Consolidated reports and certificates are to be sent in digital format to monthlyreport@[Link]. (Note:
100-01-089-DGMM refers).

Panama's MLC requirements can be found in Executive Decree No. 86. The Administration have issued
Merchant Marine Circular MMC-302 (Dec 2021) for ship's not in compliance with the accommodation
requirements of the MLC. Owners of a ship not in compliance with Title IV of Executive Decree No. 86 (MLC
Title 3, Regulation 3.1 Standard A3.1 Part A in the MLC Code) must apply for an exemption certificate.
Owners of a ship not in compliance with Title IV of Executive Decree No. 86 (MLC Title 3, Guideline Part B in
the MLC Code) must request a dispensation letter, by sending an email to mlc@[Link] explaining the
reasons and attaching ta copy of the vessel's plan.

Further requirements can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-271 (June 2021).

Requirements relating to occupational groups can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-251
(March 2013) and Merchant Marine Circular MMC-265 (Sept 2014).
Requirements relating to employment agreements can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-262
(Sept 2014).
Requirements related to hazardous working can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-367 (Oct
2024).
Requirements relating to the on-board complaints procedure can be found in Merchant Marine Circular
MMC-264 (May 2019).
Status of persons on board can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-265 (Sept 2014).
Requirements relating to minimum rest hours can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-268 (Dec
2021).
Requirements relating to Food and Catering can be found in Merchant Marine Circular 275 (Dec 2023)
and the Instructions for Handling Storage and Preparation of Food.
Requirements for Certification of Recruitment and Placement Agencies can be found in Merchant
Marine Circular MMC-278 (Sept 2023) and Merchant Marine Circular MMC-283 (Sept 2013).
Basic Recommendations minimize the Alcohol and drugs use and prevention of Sexually Transmitted
Infections and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be found in Merchant Marine Circular MMC-
403 (April 2025).

For the information of MLC Inspectors, Panamanian model forms can be found here for:

Injury and Illness Medical Record.


Ship Master Report Form.
Maritime Declaration of Health.

Merchant Marine Circular MMC -263 contains the contact details for any queries relating to the MLC.

Information on Crew Accommodation Exemption requirements may be found in MMC 302.


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Please see MMC-202 (Rev. Dec 2025) for a list of Approved P&I Clubs/Insurers.

Requirements relating to verification of liabilities declaration can be found here.

MLC, Regulation 5.1.6 - Maritime casualties

Requirements relating to occupational accidents, injuries and diseases should be reported as required in
MMC-274 (Dec 2024). Occupational accidents, injuries and diseases to seafarers is to be reported via email
using the Occupational Accidents, Injuries and Diseases Report. Both the company and ship shall have its
internal procedures to send the required information. Natural death, suicide, homicide, sexual assault and any
serious marine casualty taking place on board Panamanian flagged vessels, resulting into injuries or loss of
life according of the Standard A5.1.6 of the MLC must be reported to Maritime Affairs Investigation
Department via email. The investigation shall only be performed by personnel of the Maritime Affairs
Investigation Department.

Signatory on the DMLC Part II

The DMLC Part II may be signed by either the "Shipowner" (the manager and DOC holder) or by the owner of
the ship regardless of whether the owner has delegated the management of the ship to another organisation.
If the shipowner (the manager and DOC holder) signs the DMLC Part II, the name of the shipowner (the
manager and DOC holder) should be recorded on the certificate. If the owner of the ship signs the DMLC
Part II the name of the owner of the ship should be recorded on the certificate.

MLC Amendments 2014

The Administration does not intend to re-issue a revised DMLC Part I to vessels that are already in
possession of an existing Part I, except in the following cases

Where the vessel changes name


Where there is a change in the GT.

These, and all other, qualifying vessels will be issued with the revised DMLC Part I from 18 January 2017
onwards.

It is not mandatory for Shipowners to make amendment to the DMLC Part II if there are no changes to the
DMLC Part I. Inspectors must still ensure that the required Certificates of Financial Security are displayed
conspicuously on board during the renewal audit.

Guidance to inspectors can be found here. The Administration have issued MMC-336, MMC-202 and
Statement MMC 255.17 (for LR internal use only).

Amendments 2022 MLC, 2006 Titles 1, 2, 3, and 4

The Administration has issued Merchant Marine Notice MMN-06/2024 (June 2024) in regard to
the amendments which will enter into force on 23 December 2024, in accordance with Article XV, paragraph 7
of the MLC, 2006.

Medicine Chest and Medical Equipment

The Administration have issued MMC-339 (Rev. Aug 2025) which requires the World Health Organisation's
International Medical Guide for Ships to be carried onboard and complied with. The medicines and medical
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equipment shall be inspected within a period, not exceeding 12 months, by the designated medical officer on
board, who shall ensure that the labelling, expiry dates and conditions of storage of all medicines and
directions for their use are checked and all equipment is functioning as required. Medicines and medical
equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure that they have not passed their expiry dates.

Regarding the inspection of the oxygen cylinder, take note of the following:

The bottles shall be annually inspected.


The contents of the cylinders are to be checked and changed as required by the manufacturers.
The cylinders shall be hydrostatically tested every five years.
The hydrostatic testing must be carried out by accredited services agent or test facility.
Following the hydrostatic test a thorough inspection and internal examination must be carried out prior
to recharging.
The test certificates must be provided and retained on board for the inspection.

Safe Manning

The Administration has issued Merchant Marine Circular 344 (Jan 2025) which communicates the restrictive
measures of the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) with respect to the recognition of seafarers' technical
documentation issued by other 1978 STCW Maritime Administrations. Please see the circular for further
details.

MMC-261 (Oct 2023) provides information on acceptable medical certificates for seafarers.

MLC, Standard. A5.1.3.14 - Validity of certification when inspections are missed

If the inspections are not carried out in the corresponding period, the Maritime Labour Certificate is invalidated
and has to be notified immediately to mlc@[Link]. Following such an occurrence the Administration
will fully assume responsibility for the inspection and certification of the living and working conditions of
seafarers on board, so LR will require permission from flag to conduct the inspection and issue a new
certificate. LR will retake responsibility for the following certificate cycle, starting at the next renewal
inspection.

When the initial, intermediate or renewal inspection is not completed within the required period LR is to e-mail
mlc@[Link] with the reasons why the audit was not completed and for permission to issue a
Conditional Certificate. A copy of the new MLC with updated financial security requirements should be sent to
the Administration.

MLC, Reg. [Link] - MLC Certification on ships under 500GT

Vessels with a gross tonnage from 200 GT to 499 GT engaged in international voyages or voyages between
ports, may voluntarily request that a Maritime Labour Certificate is issued, for which compliance with all
national regulations is required, see MMC-269 (Rev. March 2025).
LR must not issue any Interim Maritime Labour Certificate or Full Term Maritime Labour Certificate to a vessel
less than 500 GT without prior authorisation or coordination with the flag (mlc@[Link]). The
Administration does not allow the DMLC to be issued to these vessels.

MLC, A5.1.3 - Conditional Certificates

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When an Interim Maritime Labour Certificate expires before a full term certificate can be issued, LR must not
issue an extension. The owner is to request LR to request the Administration at mlc@[Link] for
authorisation to issue a Conditional Certificate. The Certificate must be titled 'Conditional Certificate' rather
than Statement or any other form of words.

Where a Conditional Maritime Labour Certificate has been issued following the expiry of an Interim or full term
MLC then, following successful completion of a subsequent Initial or Renewal inspection, the new Maritime
Labour Certificate shall be made valid for a period not exceeding 5 years from the date of completion of Initial
or Renewal inspection.

Seafarer Employment Agreements - the impact of Coronavirus

The Administration have issued MMN-20-2020 relating to Seafarers Employment Agreements, Wages and
Guideline.

MODUs and High Speed Craft

The Administration have issued MMC 251. High Speed Craft are not subject to the MLC. MODUs may be
issued with a voluntary Certificate. Crew onboard, subject to STCW are considered as seafarers and their
living and working conditions may be inspected for compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention by Port
State Control authorities and Flag inspectors, even though an Maritime Labour Certificate is not issued.

List of States Parties of the 1978 STCW Convention

The Administration issued Merchant Marine Circular MMC-343 (Jan 2025) to communicate the List of States
Parties of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, to which the Administration recognises the Certificates
of Competency (CoC) and Certificates of Proficiency (CoP), in compliance with Regulations I/2 and I/10 of the
1978 STCW Convention, as amended, and in reference to Circular MSC.1/Circ.1163 of the International
Maritime Organization (IMO), which lists the States Parties that have communicated information which
demonstrates that full and complete effect is given to the provisions of the Convention. Please see the
referenced circular for further details.

Yacht Codeㅤㅤ
LR are authorised on a case-by-case basis. LR must present its formal request through its legal
representative in Panama. The application will be reviewed by a Technical Committee and consequently, the
General Director of Merchant Marine will take the final decision (i.e. approval or denial).

Yachts used Commercially

Yachts used for commercial activities are considered to be passenger vessels and are, as such, subject to all
International Conventions applicable to passenger vessels.

Pleasure Vessels

See Decree No. 18 for pleasure vessel requirements.

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National regulationsㅤㅤ
Panama Canal

Panama Canal Notices to Shipping can be found at Notices to Shipping.


Panama Canal Advisories to Shipping can be found at Advisory to Shipping.
Panama Canal Maritime regulations can be found at Maritime Regulations.
Panama Canal Authority Contact List can be found at Contact Us and Executive Vice Presidency for
Operations - Contact List.

Panama Canal Tonnage

See Tonnage section for further details.

Panama Canal SOPEP

All ships are required to have onboard a copy of the Panama Canal Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan
for Canal Waters, prepared specifically for the vessel (PCSOPEP).

All vessels approaching Canal waters for transit must submit a PCSOPEP at least 96 hours prior to its arrival.
This requirement is applicable to vessels with fuel and/or oil cargo-carrying capacity of 400 MT or more. From
1 October 2007, vessels failing to submit a compliant PCSOPEP at least 96 hours prior to arrival at Canal
waters will be classified as non-compliant and will not be granted a grace period.

All approvals of the Panama Canal SOPEP are undertaken by the Canal Authorities. LR is NOT authorised

Refer to N-12 and applicable PCA advisories which can be found at the links included above for full details.

Automatic Identification System (AIS)

The Panama Canal Authority issued Maritime Advisory to Shipping No. A-05-2023 stating that, effective 1 July
2003, vessels over 300 gross tons or over 20 meters LOA must be equipped with an automatic identification
system (AIS) transponder that meets IMO standards. Until 1 January 2005, when the AIS requirement comes
fully into effect, portable AIS units may be rented from the Canal Authority. Owners and operators are
reminded of the requirement for installation of a Pilot Plug and power source for AIS used by the Canal
pilot. (3/18/03).

Information has been received that the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has advised that it is working on the
deployment of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), which will begin operating on a test basis in 2002.
Tentatively, it is planned that it will go into full operation, as a requirement for all transiting vessels, in July
2003. The AIS will permit identification and tracking of vessels before they enter Canal waters and allow
monitoring throughout the vessel's stay in Panama Canal waters. Vessels not fitted with a working AIS will be
able to rent a portable system from the ACP.

Owners should be advised to contact the ACP directly for further details.

Bridge Visibility Requirements

Panama Canal Authorities have stated that Article 61 of their Regulations require the bridge wings to extend
to the maximum beam of the ship. Notwithstanding the above, vessels designed in accordance with Figure
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1.1 of MSC.1/Circ.1350 may submit requests to the Canal Authorities for consideration of special relaxation of
this requirement on a case-by-case basis.

MARPOL Annex II

Effective 1 January 2007, all ships intending to transit the Panama Canal carrying Annex II liquids shall have
all documents required by MARPOL Annex II onboard, and use them for their voyage planning purposes.

Ships carrying cargo loaded prior to 1 January 2007 will be permitted to transit the Canal after 1 January 2007
under the old certificate of fitness only in order to reach their final destination to offload their cargo. However,
ships carrying cargo loaded after 1 January 2007 are required to fully comply with the revised MARPOL
Annex II requirements.

The ACP is to be notified as early as possible, but not later than 96 hours prior to arrival at Panama Canal
waters, of the status of any ship that is affected by the requirements under MARPOL Annex II. These
notifications shall be forwarded to:

Chemist, Transit Operations Division

Department of Maritime Operations

Tel: +507 272-4218

Fax: +507 272-5501

Email: mrtc-ch1@[Link]

National Ballast Water Management Requirements

National Authority: Panama Canal Authority.


Ports Affected: Panama Canal.
Ships Affected: All.
Implementation: Mandatory.
Date of Start: 1999
Acceptable Methods: No ballast to be discharged into the Canal.
Unwanted Organisms / Pathogens:
Uptake Control:
Sampling:
Reporting and Records:
Alternatives to en route management procedures:
Procedure for unacceptable ballast water:
Notes:

Polar Codeㅤㅤ
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No notified technical requirements.

OSV Chemical Code (A.1122(30))ㅤㅤ


LR is to re-issue any Certificates of Fitness (Code for the Transport and Handling of Hazardous and Noxious
Liquid Substances in bulk on Offshore Support Vessels (OSV Chemical Code)) as per the instructions in
Merchant Marine Circular MMC-200 (Sept 2020).

Issue of a Certificate

If LR are authorised to issue a certificate/statement on behalf of the flag, it is to be issued on behalf of Lloyd's
Register Group Limited. Surveyors will need to change their signature block so they are working for Lloyd's
Register Group Limited rather than their usual entity. This can be done manually in Forms2, and this will then
also automatically update the header in the certificate/statement too.

Dynamic Positioning Systemㅤㅤ


Issue of a Certificate

If LR is authorised to issue a certificate / statement on behalf of the flag, it is to be issued on behalf of Lloyd's
Register Group Limited. Surveyors will need to change their signature block so they are working for Lloyd's
Register Group Limited rather than their usual entity. This can be done manually in Forms2, and this will then
also automatically update the header in the certificate / statement too.

Ship Recyclingㅤㅤ
Mandatory Certificates and Documentation under HKC

The Administration requires the following documentation onboard Panamanian fleet:

An “Inventory of Hazardous Material” onboard new and existing ships.


An “International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials” onboard ships calling ports around
the world.
A specific “Ship Recycling Plan” developed by the Ship Recycling Facility in accordance with
Regulation 9 of the HKC.
An “International Ready for Recycling Certificate” issued by this Administration after the successful
completion of a final survey in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 10 of the HKC for ships
destined to be recycled.

Development and Verification of IHM

Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM)


The Inventory consists of:

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Part I: Materials contained in ship structure or equipment, which shall be developed before the initial
survey
Part II: Operationally generated wastes, which shall be developed before the Final survey.
Part III: Stores, which shall be developed before the Final survey.

New ships shall have an Inventory of Hazardous Material Part I (IHM Part I) on the Supplier’s Declaration of
Conformity (SDoC) and the related Material Declarations (MD) collected from suppliers at the design and
construction stage, and verified by LR, according to the IMO Resolution MEPC.379(80) – “Guidelines for the
Development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials”.

Existing ships shall have an Inventory of Hazardous Materials Part I (IHM Part I) prepared by an expert or
expert party not later than five (5) years after the entry into force of the HKC or before any recycling takes
place, if earlier. The IHM Part I shall be verified by LR. However, the EU SRR will still apply to all ships ≥500
GT when calling at a EU port or anchorage.

Although the shipowner is responsible for the development of the IHM Part I according to the MEPC.379(80),
this can rely on expert assistance to do so. In addition, existing ships shall prepare a plan describing the
visual/sampling check.

The IHM Part I shall identify the hazardous materials in ship structure, machinery, equipment, materials and
coatings on board, listed at least the hazardous materials in Appendix 1 and 2 of the Hong Kong Convention if
identified on board.

The IHM Part I shall be appropriately maintained and updated throughout the ship's operational life to reflect
any changes in the location and quantities of the hazardous materials resulting from new installations,
especially after any repair, conversion or sale of a ship, containing hazardous materials and relevant changes
in the ship's structure and equipment.

If any machinery or equipment is installed/added, removed, or replaced, or if the hull coating is renewed, the
IHM Part I shall be updated according to the requirements for a new ship as indicated in MEPC.379 (80). The
shipowner is responsible for verifying whether the hazardous materials are present on board by collecting the
Material Declaration (MD) and Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) from the supplier.

Issuance of a Certificates

LR is authorised to issue an Interim International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials (Form


# 1666PAN - valid for five (5) months) and a Interim Ready for Recycling Certificate (Form # 1669PAN
- valid for fifteen (15) days) from the date on which the inspection of the ship was completed for LR and non-
LR classed ships on behalf of the Administration.

Endorsement due to an Additional survey


Endorsements according to Regulation 10 to the Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous
Materials shall be carried out by LR surveyors nominated for this purpose at the completion of the
corresponding survey on board the ship and on the printed version.

The information of the Responsible surveyor, RO, place, date and other information required to be inserted on
the endorsement spaces shall be communicated by LR no later than 30 days after conducting the survey by
sending an e-mail to SEGUMAR Office (srr-ihm@[Link]) or the nearest International SEGUMAR

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Office, in order to update this information on the system and on the electronic Full-term Certificates under the
HKC.

The Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials will be updated by this
Administration at the earliest opportunity; in the meantime, manual endorsements or electronic versions of the
endorsements shall be considered valid.

The endorsement pages left by the surveyor who carried out the additional survey shall remain on board. The
validation of such endorsements, as well as the authentication of the certificate, can be done through the
query certification system on Platform E-Segumar or by scanning the QR code, which will reflect updated
information on surveys and certifications carried out.

This Administration shall be informed at the earliest opportunity if endorsements according to Regulation 10
are carried out by a different RO (other than the one that issued the existing interim International Certificate
on Inventory of Hazardous Materials) at the ship-owner or ship-operator's request due to transfer of Statutory
certifications.

For further details, please see Merchant Marine Circular MMC-386 (Rev. Aug 2025).

Issuance of International Certificate for IHM

Ship-owners should be reminded to apply for a Full Term International Certificate on Inventory of
Hazardous Materials on the following link: E-Segumar. While applying for the Full Term Certificates,
Ship Owners / Operators must upload payment confirmation (official receipt issued by
the Administration) as part of the application documentation.

From June 26, 2025, all Statements of Compliance on Inventory of Hazardous Materials already issued by
the Administration will be replaced automatically as International Certificates on Inventory of Hazardous
Materials under the HKC, with the same validity date of the Statement of Compliance previously issued. The
issuance of this certificate will not require an additional survey/inspection as long as the IHM has been
maintained and updated as required by the Convention.

For new and existing ships:

LR has been delegated to undertake IHM approvals and carry out the Initial, Renewal, Additional, and Final
Surveys, as applicable during the operational life of the vessel on behalf of the Administration.

Where IHM survey requirements are met, LR has been authorised by the Administration to issue an Interim
International Certificate on the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (LR Form 1666PAN) with a validity period of
no more than 5 months. The Interim Certificate shall include the following Remark: “The ship was
satisfactorily inspected according to the requirements of Article 12 of the Regulation (EU) 1257/2013
on ship recycling.” The Full-Term International IHM Certificate with a validty of no more than 5 years shall be
issued by the Administration.

For ship going for recycling:

Recognised Organisations interested in verifying and issuing the Interim International Certificate on Inventory
of Hazardous Materials and the Interim International Ready for Recycling Certificate, in accordance with this
Circular, shall contact ro-monitoring@[Link]. LR has been delegated to undertake a final survey

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including review of the IHM Parts I, II & III, review of the ship specific recycling plan, the ship recycling facility
plan and the recycling facilities Document of Authorisation for Ship Recycling, on behalf of the Administration.

LR is authorised for carrying out the Final Survey and issuance of a Interim International Ready for Recycling
Certificate (LR Form 1669PAN) on behalf of the Administration. The Full-Term International Ready for
Recycling Certificate shall be issued by the Administration with a validity period of no more than 3 months.

The shipowners/operators shall obtain both certificates by accessing the Administration's e-system.

Remote IHM Surveys

Remote IHM surveys will be considered on a case by case basis. It is understood that using a hazardous
material expert will be a likely requirement for the case by case approval when requested.

Harmonisation and Certificate Renewal Endorsements

The Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials will be valid until the expiry date of
the Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate (Full Term) or International Load Line Certificate (Full Term), if
applicable.

For existing ships, Full-Term International Certificates on Inventory of Hazardous Materials, in most cases, will
have a validity of less than five years due to their harmonization with other statutory certificates in accordance
with paragraph 5 of regulation 10 of the HKC.

Endorsements to extend the validity according to Regulations 11.6, 11.7, 11.8 and 11.9 will be applied to the
Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials by the Administration. Hence,
stakeholders are invited to apply in due time to the SEGUMAR Office (srr-ihm@[Link]) or the nearest
International SEGUMAR Office.

Fees

The fee for the issuance of the Full Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials is USD
300.00 (No handling fees shall apply in case of payments made through the Merchant Marine Qualified
Consulates), as per Resolution JD No.024-2025 dated April 30, 2025.

The fee for any modification or re-issuance of a Full Term International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous
Materials is USD 300.00. Hence, a new application shall be placed through the following link: E-Segumar.

The fee for the issuance or modification/re-issuance of the Full Term International Ready for Recycling
Certificate is determined as follows:

USD 200.00 (No handling fees shall apply in case of payments made through the Merchant Marine
Qualified Consulates), for ships that already hold a Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of
Hazardous Materials, as per Resolution JD No.024-2025 dated 30 April 2025;
USD 400.00 (No handling fees shall apply in case of payments made through the Merchant Marine
Qualified Consulates), for ships that do not hold a Full-Term International Certificate on Inventory of
Hazardous Materials, as per Resolution JD No.024-2025 dated 30 April 2025.

In addition to the regular application cost, the Administration requests applying shipowners/operators to cover
a fee of USD 50.00 for international wire transfers to avoid incomplete payments.

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The above stated Administrative fees is to be paid by the ship owners/operators directly to the Administration,
with the payment confirmation (official receipt issued by the Administration) to be uploaded to E-Segumar
while making the application for Certificates.

The issuance of an Interim International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials and/or Interim
International Ready for Recycling Certificate by LR does not require the payment of additional flag
fees surcharge as per MMC-324 via LR to the Administration, as instructed by the Administration.

Work in Fishing (ILO 188)ㅤㅤ


No notified technical requirements.

Passenger Yacht Codeㅤㅤ


No notified technical requirements.

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Regulatory Affairs
Lloyd's Register
Global Technology Centre, Hampshire House
Hampshire Corporate Park
Southampton, SO53 3RY, UK

Lloyd's Register EMEA Marine and Offshore

e: flag-state@[Link]
w: [Link]

Lloyd's Register Group Limited, its affiliates and subsidiaries and their respective officers, employees or
agents are, individually and collectively, referred to in this clause as 'Lloyd's Register'. Lloyd's Register
assumes no responsibility and shall not be liable to any person for any loss, damage or expense caused by
reliance on the information or advice in this document or howsoever provided, unless that person has signed
a contract with the relevant Lloyd's Register entity for the provision of this information or advice and in that
case any responsibility or liability is exclusively on the terms and conditions set out in that contract.

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