BELIZE SHIP REGISTRATION
WELCOME TO IMMARBE NETHERLANDS
The International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) operates under the authority of Belize’s Ministry of Finance, overseeing vessel registration and maritime compliance. Established under the Registration of Merchant Ships Act (1989), with amendments in 1996 and 2010, Belize’s ship registry has built a strong reputation since its launch in 1991. As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, Belize offers political stability and a reliable flag state for shipowners worldwide.
Headquartered in Belize City, IMMARBE holds ISO 9001:2008 certification and has successfully participated in the IMO Audit Scheme. Since 1997, immarbe.nl has served as the official designated office in the Netherlands, managed by Deputy Registrar Erik A. de Koning of Hubel Marine B.V. Our office handles all aspects of Belize ship registration, including temporary and permanent vessel enrollment, maritime liens, seafarer endorsements, and transcripts of registry—ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
WORLD WIDE DESIGNATED OFFICES
ABOUT US
As the top-performing IMMARBE office (2013–2018), we specialize in fast, reliable vessel registration for shipowners, managers, banks, and maritime professionals. Our 24/7 service ensures seamless support, making Belize a preferred flag for bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, yachts, and more.
From 1997 to 2018, we registered 396 vessels, contributing to a fleet of 965 active ships (2.7M GT) by the end of 2018. With 1,060 inspections in 2018, we maintain strict Port State Control compliance, adjusting policies like the minimum crew age (19 years) to enhance safety.
Fleet & Global Reach
60% of Belize-flagged vessels trade in Asia
30% operate in Europe
10% sail worldwide
To uphold Belize’s reputation, our Technical Department implements an Occasional Survey Program for vessels in Paris MOU and Tokyo MOU regions, ensuring compliance and aiming for White List status.
Eligibility & Age Policy
We accept all vessel types, including:
Bulk carriers, cargo ships, tankers
Container ships, passenger vessels, fishing boats
Tugs, yachts, barges, MODUs
For fast approval, vessels should be under 20 years old. Older ships may qualify after review of detention history, class society, and management standards, with possible safety inspections.
Ownership Flexibility
No restrictions apply—foreign companies and individuals can freely register under the Belize flag.
“Thanks for being the highest contributor to the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize.”
Claude Haylock
Director General, IMMARBE
For expert Belize vessel registration, trust immarbe.nl
your global maritime partner
"Thanks for being the highest contributer to The Internetational Merchant Marine Registry of Belize"
– Claude Haylock
Director General, Immarbe – Registrar of Merchant Shipping and Registrar of Companies
OUR SERIVICES
SHIP REGISTRATION
Immarbe Netherlands is open to all types of vessels including bulk carrier, cargo ships, tankers, containerships, passenger ships, fishing vessels, tugs, yachts, barges, MODUs and other ocean-going vessels.
VESSEL REGISTRATION SERVICE
The office is completely empowered to process all applications for temporary and permanent registration of a vessel and including the registration of maritime Liens, issuance of seafarer endorsements, obtaining transcript of registry amongst many other Belize Ship Registration related vessel documentation.
ELIGIBILITY
There is no restriction in ownership as all foreign owned companies or individuals may register vessels under the Belize Flag.
MANNING REQUIREMENTS
Belize is a party to the STCW Convention, as amended and is on the IMO White List of countries that have given full effect to this Convention. There are no nationality restrictions.
BELIZE SEAFARER ENDORSEMENTS
The Seafarers Department is responsible for the processing of seafarer documents in accordance with the STCW Convention and the monitoring of crew compliance on board all Belize registered vessels. Application for endorsement certificates can be made through our office and will be issued within a matter of 2 hours.
RECORDING OF TITLE AND MORTGAGE
The recording of title deeds, mortgages, liens and encumbrances or any other assignments relating to any registered vessel is governed by the Merchant Shipping Act.
24 Hour Registration and Technical Services
CONTACT US
