If you want official vessel registration forms, Transport Canada supplies all required documents through its online portal and regional offices. These vessel registration forms are used for applications to document a vessel under the Canadian Register of Vessels, whether through the Small Vessel Register or the Large Vessel Register.
At the Canadian Vessel Registry, we guide you step by step—helping you identify the correct form, fill it accurately, gather accompanying documents, and submit everything efficiently.
We operate a secure digital platform to streamline the entire process—from form selection to submission—so you avoid printing, mailing, or navigating unfamiliar government websites.
How we help you choose the right vessel registration documents
Choosing the correct vessel registration forms can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the system. That’s where our service steps in. By answering simple questions—such as your vessel’s gross tonnage, engine type, intended use, and ownership status—we match you to the right application.
Our platform directs you to the appropriate mix of forms, such as:
- Form 20 for Small Vessel Register applications (first registration, renewal, transfer or update)
- Form 1 package for Large Vessel Register vessels—often commercial or pleasure craft over 15 gross tons
Because Transport Canada updates forms periodically, it’s important to use the current versions, which you’ll find at our site.
Getting help with specific cases
For first-time registration applications, you’ll need forms like:
- Application for Registry (Form 1 or 20)
- Statement of Qualification (Form 3)
- Bill of Sale (Form 6)
- Tonnage measurement or survey (Form 4A, 4B)
- Builder’s Certificate if applicable (Form 2)
If you’re changing vessel information, transferring ownership, renewing, or adding a mortgage, other forms are required (for example, Form 8 for transfers, Form 13 for name changes)
If you’re unsure, our platform explains which forms apply to your scenario and why, based on Transport Canada’s requirements.
Where forms can be downloaded: right here
Official vessel registration forms are available directly on our website, in both Small Vessel and Large Vessel registers.
Forms available include:
- Form 1 – Application for Registry (Large Vessel)
- Form 20 – Application for Registration, Transfer or Renewal (Small Vessel)
- Form 2 – Builder’s Certificate for First Title
- Form 3 – Statement of Qualification
- Form 4A or 4B – Tonnage Measurement
- Form 6 – Bill of Sale
- Form 8 – Declaration of Transmission
- Form 14 – Appointment of Authorized Representative
- Additional forms for government vessels, mortgages, name/port changes, bareboat registry activities.
What’s required alongside the forms?
Forms alone are not sufficient. You’ll also submit:
- Proof of ownership (bill of sale, builder warranty, or statement of origin)
- Evidence of Canadian qualification (citizenship, permanent residency or corporation details)
- Tonnage certificates or measurement reports
- Photos of the vessel if requested
- Supporting documents for changes (e.g. mortgage agreements, transfer declarations)
Our portal provides secure upload tools and detailed instructions for each document type so your application remains complete and compliant from the first submission.
How our service streamlines the registration process
We offer an online workflow that includes:
- Form selection guidance tailored to your vessel type
- Digital fillable forms pre-populated based on your inputs
- Secure document uploads (identification, bills, photos, etc.)
- Review and validation to catch missing fields or incorrect entries
- File submission directly to Transport Canada, including fee payment
This system aligns with Transport Canada’s latest regulation set under SOR/2007‑126 and ensures you use current forms and formats.
What if the vessel registration forms change?
When Transport Canada modifies or updates forms—such as version updates in 2025—outdated forms can cause rejection. We monitor all updates on the Transport Canada site, and our system automatically switches to the current versions. That way, users always work with approved editions and avoid submitting obsolete paperwork.
Our platform eliminates that wait by providing instant access, secure upload, and fast electronic submission.
Why correct forms matter
Using correct vessel registration forms ensures your application is accepted quickly. Incorrect forms, missing attachments, or unsigned documents can delay processing or lead to outright rejection. We help prevent those issues by:
- Identifying exactly which forms your vessel needs
- Checking that required fields are complete
- Prompting for signatures, photos, and supporting paperwork
- Letting you upload everything digitally in one place
How to get started with vessel registration forms
Begin your application by visiting our portal. Tell us about your vessel—its use, ownership, tonnage, engine type—and we’ll direct you to the correct set of vessel registration forms. From there:
- Complete digital forms online or download printable PDFs
- Upload required documents
- Review and submit through our secure system
- Track your application until a Certificate of Registry is issued
We also assist with renewals, changes, replacement certificates, ownership transfers, and mortgaging options—each requiring specific forms handled through our interface.
Ensuring legal compliance
Transport Canada’s Small Vessel Regulations include procedural rules tied to filing forms, maintaining registry accuracy, and updating vessel details. The requirements are summarized in federal regulations. Our service ensures that the right forms and documents comply with these legal frameworks so your registration is valid and recognized.
How our support continues after filing
Once your forms are submitted and accepted, we support follow‑up steps like:
- Receiving your Certificate of Registry
- Making updates (e.g. address, vessel specs, owner changes)
- Renewing before expiry
- Applying for a replacement or additional documentation
We store your forms and documents securely, making later updates and renewals more efficient.
With our secure, accurate, and user-friendly service, obtaining vessel registration forms becomes effortless. From initial selection to final submission, we make compliance with Transport Canada’s regulations straightforward and reliable.