In modern shipping, no vessel can operate safely or legally without adequate insurance cover. One of the most important proofs of such cover is the P&I Certificate of Entry, issued by a ship’s Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Club. This certificate is not only vital for statutory compliance but also ensures that shipowners, charterers, and crew have financial protection against a wide range of third-party liabilities.
This article explains what the P&I Certificate of Entry is, why it is required, what it covers, and why it must always be carried onboard.
What is a P&I Certificate of Entry?
The P&I Certificate of Entry is an official document issued annually by a Protection & Indemnity Club (usually one of the International Group of P&I Clubs) confirming that a ship is entered with the club for liability insurance.
It acts as proof that the vessel has valid protection and indemnity insurance, which is essential for covering third-party risks not normally covered by standard hull and machinery (H&M) insurance.
Who Issues the Certificate?
Issued by the P&I Club with which the vessel is entered.
Valid for the insurance year (typically 20 February to 20 February the following year).
Renewed annually upon continuation of insurance cover.
What Does the P&I Certificate of Entry Cover?
The certificate confirms that the ship has liability insurance covering, among others:
- Oil Pollution Liabilities
Used as proof of cover when applying for statutory pollution certificates such as the CLC Oil, Bunker CLC, and Wreck Removal Certificate (WRC).
- Crew-Related Liabilities
Injury, illness, or death of seafarers.
Repatriation costs.
Substitutes and crew medical expenses.
- Passenger and Third-Party Liabilities
Passenger injury, death, or illness.
Claims from stevedores, pilots, visitors, or other third parties.
- Cargo Liabilities
Loss of or damage to cargo.
Costs of cargo handling, storage, and disposal.
- Collision and Property Damage
Damage to fixed and floating objects (FFO).
Collision liabilities not covered by H&M.
- Wreck Removal and Pollution Cleanup
Costs of marking, removing, or destroying wrecks.
Pollution response measures and cleanup expenses.
Why is the P&I Certificate of Entry Important?
- Statutory Compliance – Without a valid P&I certificate, ships cannot obtain mandatory certificates like the Bunker CLC, CLC Oil, or WRC.
- Port State Control – Authorities may detain a vessel that cannot demonstrate valid insurance cover.
- Charter Party Requirements – Most charterers require proof of P&I entry before fixing a vessel.
- Financial Security – Provides assurance that claims from pollution, cargo damage, or crew injury will be met.
- Reputation and Trust – Demonstrates professionalism and commitment to responsible shipping.
Typical Information on a P&I Certificate of Entry
A standard certificate usually includes:
Vessel’s name and IMO number.
Flag, port of registry, and tonnage.
Name and full address of registered owner/charterer.
Period of cover (start and expiry dates).
Statement of entry confirming liability cover.
Name and details of the issuing P&I Club.
P&I Certificate of Entry vs. Statutory Certificates
While the P&I Certificate of Entry itself is not a statutory certificate, it is the foundation for obtaining several statutory certificates. Without it, a ship cannot demonstrate compliance with
CLC Oil Certificate (oil pollution liability).
Bunker CLC Certificate (bunker oil pollution liability).
Wreck Removal Certificate (WRC) (wreck removal liability).
Conclusion
The P&I Certificate of Entry is one of the most important documents onboard a ship. It provides proof of liability insurance, ensures compliance with international conventions, and protects shipowners, crew, and third parties against major risks. Without it, a vessel cannot obtain mandatory pollution and wreck removal certificates and risks detention or trading bans.
For shipowners and operators, keeping this certificate valid and onboard is not just a legal requirement—it is an essential part of responsible and sustainable shipping.
