August 25, 2025
Panama Canal will implement a new risk-based vessel inspection model
The Panama Canal announces the launch of a new risk-based vessel inspection model, effective October 1, 2025.
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 operation
• 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.