Pakistan has made its ship and boat registration system fully online, so vessel owners can now submit registration applications electronically without visiting government offices. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Friday, November 6, 2026, that the registration modules are now fully operational.
What happened?
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has activated the online Ship and Boat Registration System. The ship and boat registration modules are now accessible for online applications, following the completion of the necessary arrangements. The system covers merchant ships, fishing boats, sailing vessels and harbour crafts, which are registered by the Mercantile Marine Department under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance and related laws.
Key details
- Vessel owners can now apply for registration online instead of visiting government offices in person.
- The system is expected to improve transparency, reduce administrative costs for applicants and help maintain an up-to-date national database of registered vessels.
- Online payment of registration fees is being added next: officials from the Mercantile Marine Department are scheduled to meet the State Bank of Pakistan to integrate an electronic payment mechanism.
- The online payment facility is expected to become operational within 15 days, allowing applicants to pay registration fees electronically through a single payment link.
What it means for people in Pakistan
For shipowners, fishing boat operators and shipping agents, the change means registration can be started from anywhere, saving trips to government offices and the time and cost that came with them. A clearer, digitised record of vessels should also make maritime administration more transparent and efficient for everyone who depends on Pakistan’s ports and coastal trade.
