VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltese-flagged private yachts can now apply for United States cruising licences, opening up new opportunities for Malta’s maritime sector, Minister for Sustainable Mobility Chris Bonnett has announced.
Malta has been added to the list of countries eligible for cruising privileges under US regulations 19 CFR § 4.94(b), following diplomatic engagement with the United States.
The decision by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) was published in the US Federal Register on 29 October, with the privileges applicable to Malta since 10 June 2026.
Bonnett said the move removes a “longstanding competitive disadvantage” in one of the world’s most important yachting markets, giving private yacht owners a commercial advantage when registering under the Maltese flag.
The licences allow eligible yachts to navigate between US ports without repeated formal customs entry and clearance procedures, while benefiting from exemptions from certain administrative charges, tonnage duties and other requirements.
However, licences are not automatic. Owners must apply to the relevant US port director, and each licence may be issued for a maximum of 12 months.
The arrangement applies exclusively to privately operated pleasure yachts. Commercially operated vessels are not eligible.
Yacht masters must still report arrivals at each US port to the appropriate CBP office and comply with applicable customs, immigration, safety and navigation requirements.
Bonnett said the development would offer greater operational flexibility and lower administrative costs, while strengthening Malta’s international reputation as a yachting jurisdiction.
He added that the recognition also creates new opportunities for maritime law firms, yacht managers, registration agents and corporate service providers.
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