French flag’s International register

Created by the law of May 3, 2005, the RIF is the French registration system for ships operated commercially in the following sectors:

• maritime transport (shipping);
• offshore services;
• commercial yachting.

As part of the harmonization of European policies, the strengthening of maritime safety and security, the development of shipowners competitiveness and maritime employment, the RIF was created as a registration system for ocean-going merchant ships, ships operated for international cabotage and yachts with a length overall above 15 m for commercial use* (Transport Code - article L5611-2).
French-flagged commercial ships are on the White list of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (or MoU) ¹, thus acknowledging the recognition of French ships in terms of compliance with international safety standards.

Beyond the tax advantages and comprehensive social protection, the RIF is the modern symbol of France’s commitment to implementing the concept of "substantial link", as set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, or Montego Bay), between the ship and the State.

The effectiveness and quality of services under the RIF are guaranteed by the management performed by the RIF Office. This dedicated and integrated public service is the privileged interlocutor for shipowners and seafarers whose ships are registered under the RIF.

The RIF Office is operating under the Merchant fleet division (MFC), part of the Directorate general for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture (DGAMPA). As a service of the central administration under the State Ministry for the Sea, the RIF Office (Guichet Unique, GU) is located in Marseille.