Office of Sealift Support
Foreign Transfer
(U.S. flag vessels)

Please direct all questions to
Patricia Thomas
Vessel Transfer Officer
Office of Sealift Support
At 202-366-2646 or 366-2354
Fax at 202-493-2180
Or e-mail to Sealift.marad@dot.gov

Providing required approval for all U.S. Documented Vessels over 1,000 gross  tons switching to foreign ownership and/or registry and flag

Under 46 U.S.C. § 56101, U.S. documented vessels 1,000 gross tons and over require approval of the Maritime Administration (MARAD) to be transferred to foreign ownership, flag and/or registry.  Vessels 3,000 gross tons and over are subject to additional financial terms and conditions contained in 46 CFR Part 221.  MARAD requires a formal application with supporting (U.S. Coast Guard Form 1330) documentation including an original Coast Guard issued certificate of ownership.  The Maritime Administration changes the following fees for processing applications.

 MA-29 application fees schedule:  

Vessels 3,000 gross tons                                   $325.00
Vessels less than 3,000 gross tons                     $170.00
Amendments to existing contract                        $260.00

 Payment shall be made by Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or Money Order Payable to “Maritime Administration” 

Completed applications and payments should be mailed to:
Department of Transportation
Maritime Administration   MAR-630
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
2^nd Floor, West Building
Washington, DC 20590  

• Vessel Transfer Application  (MA-29B click here)