The Malta Ship Registry introduced Merchant Shipping Notice 206, aimed at streamlining the authentication of foreign documents submitted for registration and filing purposes. 

Traditionally, documents executed outside Malta were required to undergo a multi-step authentication process. This included certification by a notary, lawyer, or equivalent professional in the originating jurisdiction, and then legalised by an Apostille in accordance with the Hague Convention of 1961, or through a Maltese diplomatic or consular authority. While effective, this process often resulted in delays and additional administrative burdens for stakeholders operating across jurisdictions.

Under the revised framework, the Registry now has the discretion to accept certain foreign-executed documents without the requirement for formal legalisation. This waiver applies irrespective of whether the documents originate from within or outside the European Union.

A central feature of this new procedure is that the practitioner submitting the documentation must provide a signed Declaration of Authenticity, confirming that to the best of their professional knowledge, the foreign professional who executed the document is duly authorised and qualified in their respective jurisdiction. To support this declaration, practitioners are expected to carry out appropriate due diligence. This may include obtaining documentary proof of the foreign professional’s credentials, consulting official registers or regulatory bodies, or applying other recognised verification methods.

The Declaration of Authenticity must be executed by a duly warranted professional in Malta. Foreign professionals may only sign such declarations where they hold equivalent authorisation recognised within the Maltese jurisdiction.

This simplified procedure does not replace existing legalisation requirements but serves as an alternative option. Practitioners may continue to rely on the traditional process where appropriate or preferred.

This measure represents a balanced approach, combining procedural flexibility with professional accountability. It is expected to facilitate smoother transactions while upholding the high standards associated with the Malta Ship Registry.