Fewer Forms, Less Data: MARAD Simplifies Citizenship Filings for Vessel Owners

By Sean Pribyl, Allison Skopec, Leilany Rodriguez

Vessel owners and program participants who file annual affidavits of U.S. citizenship with the Maritime Administration (MARAD) now face significantly fewer paperwork demands. Two final rules published in the Federal Register on June 4, 2026, one addressing MARAD’s promotional programs under 46 C.F.R. Part 355 and the other targeting the American Fisheries Act (AFA) program under 46 C.F.R. Part 356, collectively reshape how corporations and other business entities prove they satisfy federal maritime citizenship requirements. Both rules are effective immediately and carry a deregulatory designation under Executive Order 14192.

The Part 355 amendments