The Ministry for Sustainable Mobility announced what it called "a historic achievement for the maritime sector" as, for the first time, pleasure yachts registered under the Maltese flag will be able to benefit from a special cruising licence, known as a Cruising Licence, in the United States of America.

This announcement was made by Minister for Sustainable Mobility, Chris Bonett, following official confirmation by the US authorities that Malta has been included in its list of countries eligible for these licences.

Through this development, Maltese-flagged pleasure yachts granted a cruising licence may sail between US ports without being subject to certain customs entry and clearance procedures, while benefitting from exemptions on various fees and administrative charges. The licence may be issued for a maximum period of one year, with the possibility for renewal.

The Ministry for Sustainable Mobility said in a statement that "this achievement removes a longstanding competitive disadvantage that had affected Maltese-registered yachts for several years compared to those flying other flags."

The decision was officially published on 29 October 2026, in the United States Federal Register, through an amendment to the regulations of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The privileges associated with this decision have been applicable to Malta since 10 June 2026.

Minister Bonett said that, through this decision, "This achievement further strengthens the competitiveness of the Maltese flag and makes the Maltese Ship Registry more attractive to owners of yachts exceeding 24 metres in length."

He pledged that the Maltese government shall keep working "to attract more registrations, create new opportunities for the industry, and reinforce Malta's reputation in the maritime sector."

This development, achieved following years of sustained efforts and diplomatic engagement with the US authorities, represents another important step in strengthening maritime relations between Malta and the United States, while further consolidating the position of the Maltese flag in the international yachting market, the Ministry concluded.