Starting 1 January 2025, all foreign vessels entering Norwegian waters will be subject to new, stricter reporting regulations. Announced by the Norwegian Ministry of Defence, these updates are part of the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance maritime security and improve situational awareness. The revised Port of Call Regulations aim to strengthen oversight of foreign vessels operating in Norwegian territorial waters, ensuring that authorities can respond more effectively to potential security threats.
What’s Changing?
- Lower Reporting Threshold: The size requirement for vessels that must submit arrival notifications will decrease from 24 metres to 15 metres. As a result, smaller vessels—such as tugs, yachts, and expedition ships—will now be required to comply with the same reporting obligations as larger vessels.
- Inclusion of Unmanned and Autonomous Vessels: The new regulations will also extend to unmanned and autonomous vessels, reflecting the increasing use of advanced maritime technology.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Foreign vessels will be required to submit their arrival notifications via SafeSeaNet Norway (SSN). Vessels that fail to submit the required notifications could face sanctions.
At Inchcape, all of our customers are already submitting their port call notifications through SafeSeaNet, either directly or via our services, ensuring full compliance with the new regulations. Our team is fully prepared to assist you in meeting the updated reporting requirements, facilitating a smooth and compliant entry into Norwegian waters.
If your vessel is scheduled to enter Norwegian waters in 2025, we encourage you to contact us for assistance with the new reporting procedures. Our global network of experts is here to ensure that your operations remain seamless and compliant with the latest regulatory changes.
For more information, please feel free to reach out to your local Inchcape office: