Tanzania – Issuance of electronic certificates

C26018| 13 March 2026

Notice to: Ship Owners / Managers / Operators

The Tanzania Zanzibar International Register of Shipping (TZIRS) has issued circular FSI/04/2026, which establishes their policy and procedures for the issuance, use and verification of electronic certificates issued by the Administration.

The Circular entered into force on 06 MARCH 2026 and governs certificates issued in electronic format, including but not limited to:
• Certificate of Registry (COR)
• Ship Station License (SSL)
• Minimum Safe Manning Document (MSMD)
• International Tonnage Certificate (ITC 1969)
• Other Administrative Certificates issued by TZIRS.

Points to Note:

Electronic certificates issued by TZIRS have the same legal validity as traditional paper certificates. Ships may carry:
• the electronic certificate in digital format; or
• a printed copy of the electronic certificate.

Both forms are valid provided the certificate can be verified through the Administration verification system.

Electronic certificates issued by TZIRS include:
• Unique Tracking Number
• Embedded QR Code
• Protection against unauthorized alteration
• Identification of issuing Authority
• Compliance with format required by applicable International Conventions.

Electronic certificates issued by TZIRS can be verified through the ZMA verification portal:

https://zma.oceansfrontier.com/certificate_validators/new

Shipowners and Masters are to ensure that certificates are properly maintained and accessible onboard, and that printed copies correspond with the electronic original issued by TZIRS. Electronic certificates should be managed within the Ship’s Safety Management System (SMS).

Act now

Ship Owners/Managers/Operators are to take note of the contents of Circular No. FSI/04/2026 and be guided accordingly.