Applications for Wreck Removal Certificates are now being processed
From 11 February 2025, all Norwegian ships of 300 gross tonnage and above are required to have a Wreck Removal Certificate (WRC). The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has now started processing applications.
WRC: In December 2024, the NMA published information about the types of ships requiring insurance and the timeline for the new requirement.
The NMA has now started processing applications and encourages those required to obtain a Wreck Removal Certificate to apply promptly, no later than 11 February.
Certificates will be issued as soon as they are ready, with the earliest date being 11 February 2025. If you require a certificate valid before this date, for instance, for international voyages, you must obtain it from another Convention State, such as Denmark.
For detailed guidance on the application process, please refer to Guidance Circular RSV 01-2025, which is available on our website.
Norwegian ships of 300 gross tonnage and above without a Wreck Removal Certificate
Ships insured under policies valid from 1 January to 31 December will need a Wreck Removal Certificate covering the period 11 February to 31 December 2025.
Some insurance companies operate on a policy year that begins on 20 February and runs for one year. These companies will issue two insurance certificates.
In these cases, a WRC will be issued for two periods: one covering 11 February to 20 February 2025, and another covering 20 February 2025 and 20 February 2026. However, only a single fee will be charged.
Norwegian ships of 300 gross tonnage and above with a Wreck Removal Certificate issued by another Convention State
If a ship requires renewal or modification of its Wreck Removal Certificate after 11 February 2025, the application must be submitted to the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
Ships already holding a Wreck Removal Certificate due to voyages to countries that have previously ratified the Convention may continue operating under their existing certificates issued by other countries.
This remains valid until the current certificate expires or becomes otherwise invalid.
How to apply
Submit your application via email to post@sdir.no, including the following information:
- A confirmation from an approved insurance company (blue card) verifying that the ship is insured or has security for costs related to locating, marking and removing wrecks, as required under the Nairobi Convention
- The ship's name and IMO number
- The name and email address of the certificate recipient
Background for the new requirement:
A Wreck Removal Certificate (WRC) is a certificate for ships of 300 gross tonnage and above. It confirms that the ship has approved insurance or other security covering the costs of locating, marking and removing wrecks pursuant to the rules of the Nairobi Convention.
The new certificate requirement will apply regardless of certification and trade area, which means that it will apply both for ships engaged on domestic and international voyages.