Vanuatu – Mandatory Additional ISM Audit Following PSC Inspections within Paris MoU Jurisdiction FSL 070125

C26004 | 15 January 2026

Notice to: Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators / Masters of Vanuatu-registered ships and Recognized Organizations

The Maritime Administrator of Vanuatu has issued the FSL 070125 to inform all concerned parties that enhanced measures related to ISM compliance are being implemented for Vanuatu-flagged vessels operating within the Paris MoU jurisdiction, with immediate effect.

1. Additional ISM Audit Requirement
An additional ISM audit may be required when:
    • A Vanuatu-flagged vessel is inspected under the Paris MoU jurisdiction
    • One or more deficiencies identified during the PSC inspection are marked as ISM related.

2. Conduct of the Additional ISM Audit
The additional ISM audit shall:
    • Be conducted by the vessel’s Recognized Organization (RO)
    • Be carried out within one (1) month from the date of the PSC inspection
    • Verify that the ISM related deficiency has been properly rectified
    • Confirm that the deficiency has been closed to the satisfaction of the Maritime Administration

3. Rationale
This measure is implemented in recognition of the fact that Paris MoU authorities reserve the right to conduct spot check inspections approximately three (3) months after deficiencies have been recorded.

4. Applicability
This circular is applied to Vanuatu-flagged vessels that are found with ISM related deficiencies during PSC inspections conducted under the jurisdiction of the Paris MoU after the date of publication of this circular and is effective immediately.

Act now

This circular is effective immediately. Ship owners, Managers, and Operators shall take note that, where ISM-related deficiencies are identified during Port State Control inspections under the Paris MoU jurisdiction, the Maritime Administration may require an additional ISM audit to be carried out within one (1) month from the date of the inspection by the vessel’s Recognized Organisation.