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TECHNICAL NOTE No. TECH-005-2026 MMN-11/2024

The purpose of this technical note is to provide information
The precheck is a mandatory preliminary assessment that analyzes risks related to the vessel, its owner,
operator, and/or charterer before applying for registration in the Panama Ship Registry. Its purpose is to
verify compliance with international standards for safety, environmental protection, and crew welfare, in
accordance with Law 57 of 2008.
Application of the precheck:
For all vessels applying for registration in Panama, regardless of the registration type.
For vessels already registered that are requesting a change of owner or charterer.
It does not apply when the vessel is already registered and only a change of name or operator is being
requested.
Precheck application:
It must be submitted by a Panamanian law firm or a Panama Merchant Marine Consulate.
It must be completed before registration and is valid for 15 calendar days.
Applications should be sent to pmaprecheck@amp.gob.pa with the following information:
IMO number.
Previous registration (not applicable to new constructions).
Current owner (not applicable to new constructions).Proposed owner under the Panamanian flag and Registered Owner number.
Economic group.
Current operator (not applicable to new constructions).
Proposed operator under the Panamanian flag and their Company Identification Number.
Charterer's name (if applicable to bareboat registration).
Date of keel laying or, if applicable, delivery date.
Ballwater management method (D2, D4, or other), if applicable to the IBWM Convention.
As part of the Panama Registry's policies to streamline and improve the performance of its fleet, oil
tankers and bulk carriers older than 15 years will not be accepted for registration.
Exceptions may be considered for vessels up to 20 years old, only if the results of the internal risk
assessment are satisfactory.
Inquiries concerning the subject of this Technical Note shall be addressed to:
What does the Panama Registry's policy state regarding the age of vessels?
A. All tankers and bulk carriers will be accepted regardless of their age.
B. Tankers and bulk carriers older than 15 years will not be accepted, except for exceptions up to 20
years if the internal risk assessment is satisfactory.
C. Vessels older than 20 years will only be accepted if they pass a mandatory special inspection.