Recording of Bill of Sale | Ownership Transfers | VISR

Clean ownership records - no ambiguity

Ownership changes must be recorded cleanly to protect counterparties, support financing, and prevent registry misuse. VISR records bills of sale and related instruments once documentation is complete, consistent, and properly executed.

When you need to record a Bill of Sale

·       Sale/purchase closing for a Vanuatu-flagged vessel

·       Transfer of ownership interests affecting registry records

·       Corporate restructuring where legal ownership changes

·       Any transaction requiring registry evidence of updated ownership

Document standards (what VISR will check)

·       Clear vessel identification and consistent naming/IMO details

·       Correct legal names and addresses of seller and buyer

·       Authority of signatories and proper execution formalities

·       Compatibility with any recorded mortgage/encumbrance status

·       Absence of inconsistencies that create dual ownership or unclear title

Process

1.       Submit the bill of sale and supporting documents for review.

2.       VISR confirms completeness, execution standards, and registry consistency.

3.       Where mortgages exist, coordinate discharge/consent requirements where applicable.

4.       Upon approval, the bill of sale is recorded and ownership records are updated.

5.       VISR issues official confirmation and any certified copies required.

Common problems (avoid them)

·       Mismatch between seller name on registry and seller name on bill of sale (corporate name changes not documented).

·       Wrong vessel identifiers (IMO digit errors, old vessel name).

·       Missing authority documents for corporate sellers/buyers.

·       Failure to coordinate mortgage discharge or lender consents where required.

Important notice

VISR records registry instruments and maintains the official register. VISR does not provide legal advice on title disputes or contractual enforcement. Parties should obtain independent legal advice for transaction structuring.