Form

How to apply for a Flag State Endorsement

Complete application form MSF 4203 to apply for a UK Flag State Endorsement (FSE).

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Published: 25 March 2014
• Last updated: 21 May 2026
  Show all updates

  1. 21 May 2026

     New version of the application form available, including requirement for personal email ID for UKLAP candidates.

  2. 27 February 2025

     Revision of UKLAP information and new payment link added for UKLAP. Privacy statement revised to reflect changes to UKLAP.

  3. 17 January 2023

     Major form update: streamlined editable format with separate seafarer signature page which must be printed off, signed in black pen and scanned.

  4. 16 November 2022

     Updated FSE application form (main change: GovPay payment links)

  5. 24 August 2021

     Updated form (optional second signature box)

  6. 6 February 2021

     New version of form available

  7. 14 January 2021

     Revision 01/21 of CEC form published (updated signature box).

  8. 16 April 2020

     COVID-19 update (unable to accept applications by post)

  9. 13 March 2020

     Updated version of form

  10. 28 February 2020

      New version of the form available.

  11. 15 January 2019

      Application form updated

  12. 13 November 2018

      Application form updated.

  13. 12 November 2018

      Application form updated with fee change.

  14. 12 November 2018

      Application form updated with fee change.

  15. 18 May 2018

      Application form updated

  16. 17 January 2018

      Application form updated

  17. 30 November 2017

      Application form has been updated

  18. 13 November 2017

      Title updated

  19. 27 March 2014

      Amendments completed to confirm to style guide

  20. 25 March 2014

      First published.

Documents

Application for a UK Flag State Endorsement MSF 4203

Ref: REV 05/26

PDF, 217 KB, 4 pages

Seafarer Signature Page

Ref: REV 01/23

PDF, 205 KB, 1 page

Details

You should use this form whether you are applying for your first FSE, revalidation or upgrade.

Please email your completed application form (including seafarer signature page) and supporting documents to: fse@mcga.gov.uk

If you have any queries, please see our detailed guidance on how to apply for a Flag State Endorsement.

We aim to process FSE applications within 20 working days (roughly 4 weeks) subject to receiving timely CoC verification from the other flag state.

Please note that we are unable to provide a counter service.