BoatReg Consultants

FAQ’S

Polish Boat Registration FAQ'S

Boat registration under the Polish flag is open to everyone, regardless of nationality or country of residence. The process is fully digital and does not require physical presence in Poland.

No. Once registered, a Polish boat registration is valid for life. There are no annual renewal fees.

Yes. The Polish boat registration is internationally recognized, allowing vessels to operate under the Polish flag in most countries around the world.

Required documents vary based on the vessel’s age and ownership status. Generally,
the following are required:
○ Proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale, purchase agreement, invoice)
○ Copy of a valid ID or passport
○ CE Certificate and CE plate (required for vessels built after June 16, 1998)
○ Engine details (engine number, power specifications)
○ Hull identification (photo of the hull number)
○ Previous registration documents (if applicable)

Note: Vessels built before June 16, 1998, may be exempt from CE certification
requirements

Yes. Boats registered as recreational yachts (designated “JR”) are for private use only
and cannot be used for commercial activities such as bareboat or crewed charters.

○ Vessel name must be displayed on both sides of the bow and on the stern
○ Registration number and port of registry must be placed below the vessel name
on the stern
○ Name limitations:
■ Maximum 33 characters
■ Must not resemble emergency service terminology or include offensive
language

○ Vessels under 15 meters (recreational use):
No inspection generally required.
○ Vessels over 15 meters or intended for commercial use:
Require a Yacht Safety Certificate, which involves an inspection conducted by
the Polish Yachting Association (PYA) or the Polish Register of Shipping
(PRS).

Yes, under certain conditions. For privately used homebuilt boats not sold within five
years of construction, a CE Certificate may not be required. However, proof of ownership
and construction documentation must be provided.

● Maximum of 33 characters
● Must not replicate emergency service terms (e.g., “Rescue”)
● Must avoid offensive or inappropriate language

Yes. The Polish flag can be used to register recreational vessels up to 24 meters in
length. Vessels exceeding this length must explore alternative registration options.

An MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) Radio License is strongly recommended for
vessels using maritime communication equipment such as VHF, AIS, radar, or EPIRB
devices.
Issued by: Polish Office of Electronic Communications

Validity: 10 years

Yes. Poland allows registration by individuals of any nationality or residency, making it
highly accessible to international boat owners.

Yes. Recreational yachts marked “JR” must not be used for commercial purposes.
● Passenger Limitations:
Yachts carrying over 12 passengers fall under passenger ship regulations and must
comply with additional requirements and be entered into the Register of Ships.

Under 15 meters: Inspection not mandatory but advised
Over 15 meters: Yacht Safety Certificate required, with inspections conducted by
relevant Polish maritime authorities

Registration costs vary based on vessel length:
0 – 6.99 meters: €395
7.00 – 14.99 meters: €495
15.00 – 24.00 meters: €595
Fees typically include document handling and basic translation services.

● Provisional Certificate: Issued in 1–3 days (express) or 10–15 days (standard)

● Final Certificate: Delivered within 3–5 weeks

Changes in ownership, technical specifications (e.g., engine replacement), or vessel
use must be reported to the Polish registration authority within 30 days. Registration
records can be updated to reflect:
● New owner’s details
● Vessel name
● Port of registry
● Intended use (private/commercial)

Yes, Poland allows commercial vessel registration. Commercial operations require
compliance with safety regulations and a Yacht Safety Certificate, which includes a
technical inspection.

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