Legal support for shipping-related businesses
Regulatory compliance · Risk prevention · Cross-border coordination
Direct Access to the Madeira Shipping Registry (RIN-MAR)
PAF is uniquely positioned in close proximity to the International Shipping Register of Madeira (RIN-MAR)
This allows us to facilitate fast, direct and efficient interactions with the registry, helping bridge the gap between shipowners and RIN-MAR and ensuring smooth communication at every stage.
Compliance-Focused Legal Support
In shipping, most risks arise not from disputes, but from regulatory non-compliance.
We focus on preventing problems by ensuring that vessels, structures and operations comply with Portuguese, EU and international maritime regulations from the start.
EU & Portuguese Maritime Law Expertise
We advise shipowners and operators on Portuguese and EU maritime law, including flag, port and operational requirements.
Our goal is to provide clear guidance so clients can operate in the EU with confidence and predictability.
Practical Experience with International Shipowners
We regularly assist international shipowners, operators and maritime service providers。
Our advice is practical, commercially focused and aligned with real operational needs.
Clear Communication & Long-Term Partnership
We value clarity, responsiveness and trust.
Our clients rely on us for structured advice, transparent risk assessment and long-term legal support as their maritime operations develop in the EU.
Who We Assist
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Feature Listing
- Shipowners & Vessel Operators
- Ship Management Companies
- Trading & Logistics Groups
- Marine Insurance / P&I-related matters
- Banks and financial institutions financing vessel acquisitions
Scope of Services
Ability is important… but dependability is critical
Vessel registration
Representation of shipowners throughout the vessel registration process
Legal support on contractual aspects of vessel construction and acquisition, ensuring full regulatory compliance
Mortgage registration
Legal assistance in maritime mortgage registration for both lenders and borrowers
Ensuring legal certainty, clarity, and a smooth registration process aligned with each party’s interests
Crew certificate
- Crew certification and STCW endorsement, including nationality waivers where applicable
- Compliance advice on crew regulations, social security, and flag state requirements
- Tax guidance for seafarers engaged in international shipping
The PAF Advantage: Your Strategic Bridge to RIN-MAR
24/7 Responsiveness: Shipping never sleeps, and neither do we. We offer round-the-clock support for emergency cases and industry-leading turnaround times for standard registrations and inquiries.
The RIN-MAR Bridge: As your local legal representative, we provide a direct, seamless interface with the International Shipping Register of Madeira and the Portuguese Maritime Authorities.
EU Flag Prestige: We help you leverage the benefits of the Paris MoU White List, ensuring higher credibility in global ports and fewer inspections.
Fiscal Expertise: Specialized guidance on the 5% Corporate Income Tax rate and social security exemptions available through the Madeira International Business Centre (MIBC).
Financial Security: Expert drafting and registration of maritime mortgages, with the flexibility to use international legal frameworks (such as English Law) to satisfy global lenders.
Technical Versatility: Tailored solutions across the board—from commercial fleets and oil rigs to high-end yachts and bareboat charters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Madeira International Ship Registry (MAR)?
MAR is Portugal’s second ship registry, offering international registration with strong legal and fiscal benefits.
Is MAR internationally recognized?
Absolutely. MAR complies with all major IMO and ILO conventions
How does the registration process work?
We guide you through every step to ensure your ship meets all legal and safety requirements.
What operational advantages does MAR offer?
Full access to EU coastal shipping and competitive social security arrangements for your crew
Can ships registered in other countries transfer to MAR?
Yes. We handle the legal process to transfer your ship’s flag smoothly and without hassle.
Who can register ships in MAR?
We help Portuguese and foreign shipowners register their vessels efficiently and securely
Are crew salaries taxed?
Crew salaries on MAR-registered ships are exempt from taxation — we make sure you understand all benefits.
What ship registration services do you offer?
From construction to acquisition, we handle all legal details so you can focus on your business.
What about mortgage registration?
We provide full support in mortgage registrations, offering flexible legal options tailored to your needs.
What types of vessels can be registered?
All commercial vessels except fishing vessels — including oil platforms and commercial or private yachts
How does social security work for crew?
We manage exemptions for non-Portuguese crew and ensure Portuguese crew contributions are minimized.
Do you assist with mortgage registration?
Yes. We represent both lenders and borrowers, resolving any issues promptly.
What crew certification services are provided?
We assist with STCW endorsements, nationality waivers, and social security and tax consulting for crew
Which ILO conventions apply?
Covers seafarer contracts, repatriation, working conditions, and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006).
Which IMO conventions apply to MAR?
Key conventions including SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, COLREG, and others fully apply.
Do you handle maritime legal disputes?
We tackle ship arrests, cross-border insolvencies, and all maritime litigation — your problem becomes ours
What is a nationality waiver?
It’s a legal exemption allowing non-national crew to meet registration requirements — we help you obtain it.
What is temporary registration?
Temporary registration lasts up to 5 years and can be extended; we ensure compliance and smooth renewals.
