The Panama Canal has announced to launch of a new risk-based vessel inspection model, effective from October 1, 2025.
This initiative reflects the Canal’s unwavering commitment to facilitate maritime traffic, while upholding high safety standards, ensuring that vessels benefit from faster and more efficient Canal operations, simplified compliance with international regulations, reduced operational costs, and sustainable inspection practices. Additionally, it enhances transparency and traceability for audits, decreases inspection-related delays, minimizes environmental impact, and allows crews more time for operational readiness—creating a smoother, safer, and more profitable navigation experience.
All vessels entering Panama Canal jurisdictional waters will undergo a physical inspection conducted by a canal admeasurer, as currently practiced. This inspection will be valid for one year. After this initial inspection, vessels may qualify for digital inspections on subsequent visits to the Canal, provided the following conditions are met: • The vessel holds a valid inspection for the intended operation1.
- All visit information requirements are submitted completely and on time.
- The Naval Inspection Checklist is fully and timely submitted, reflecting current vessel conditions.
- Vessel documentation is up to date in the system.
- The vessel’s risk level evaluation indicates no high-risk factors.
Risk assessment will focus primarily on:
- Vessel type
- Vessel age
- Deficiency history
- Flag state
- Classification society