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The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) is the administrative and supervisory authority in matters related to safety of life, health, material assets and the environment on vessels flying the Norwegian flag and foreign ships in Norwegian waters. The NMA is also responsible for ensuring the legal protection of Norwegian-registered ships and registered rights in those ships. The NMA is subordinate to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Climate and Environment. Our activities are governed by national and international legislation, agreements and political decisions.

The NMA's functions

Adviser

The NMA has a duty to provide guidance to our customers. The NMA advises the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, the Ministry of Climate and Environment and other government agencies. The guidance should be clear, consistent and based on professional expertise and integrity.

Driving force

The NMA will be a driving force for the industry and political authorities in the safety and environmental activities. In addition, the NMA will encourage the maintenance and development of a strong Norwegian flag.

The NMA will be a visible and clear participant in the national and international regulatory work. Attitudinal measures are also central to our work. Research, innovation, risk assessments and lessons learned from accidents should form the basis for our priorities.

Supervisory authority

The NMA has been delegated supervisory authority pursuant to the Ship Safety and Security Act, the Product Control Act and the Act relating to Recreational and Small Craft. The supervision includes certification, document control, inspection and auditing to ensure compliance with the legislation. The supervision contributes to the creation of strong behavioural attitudes with regard to health, safety and the environment.

Register

The NMA has been delegated authority pursuant to the Norwegian Maritime Code to manage the function of real property register. Registration ensures the legal protection of registered rights and is maintained by correct and updated registers.

Overall objective: The preferred maritime administration

In order to reach the goal of being the preferred maritime administration, we have three main objectives:

High level of safety, cleaner environment

Vessels shall be good, serious and safe workplaces manned with qualified seafarers. We contribute to this by conducting supervision, developing rules and regulations and doing preventive work for both Norwegian and foreign vessels in Norwegian waters.

Professionalism and customer focus

We are professional. We give good answers quickly and work closely with our customers to find solutions. High quality in our work, as well as high ethical standards and expertise are preconditions.

World-leading and attractive collaborating partner

We will contribute to safeguarding Norway’s position as a leading maritime nation. The Norwegian Maritime Authority and the Norwegian flag are strong brands with a good reputation. We will defend and strengthen this position.

The head of the Norwegian Maritime Authority is Director General of Shipping and Navigation, Mr Knut Arild Hareide.