Who Receives a Seafarer's Service Book?
A seafarer's service book, also known as a seaman's book or sailor's book, is an official document that records all data about a seafarer's service on a vessel or in a maritime organization. It is a kind of employment record book for seafarers and is needed by every maritime specialist.
What Does a Seafarer's Service Book Contain?
A seafarer's service book typically contains the following information:
- Personal data of the seafarer: Full name, date and place of birth, citizenship, and other identification data
- Qualification and education information: Maritime specialty, obtained licenses and certificates
- Service history: List of vessels where the seafarer worked, indicating service periods and positions held
- Records of completed tasks and duties, special skills, and work experience
- Notes about completed training, courses, and other professional programs
- Additional notes such as awards, letters of commendation, or disciplinary actions received during service
- Qualification and education information: Maritime specialty, obtained licenses and certificates
Important Document
A seafarer's service book is an important document when applying for employment in a maritime organization or when transferring to a new vessel. It is required immediately when hired for the first job, so the service book is part of the initial document package for going to sea. It has no expiration date and entries are made as long as there are empty pages. After that, it is exchanged for a new one.
The service book confirms experience, accumulated sea service, professionalism, and qualifications of a maritime specialist. Based on accumulated service, you can apply for the rank of captain, officer, etc.
What is a Seafarer's Service Book For?
A seafarer's service book has several important purposes:
Documenting Service and Qualifications
The service book serves as an important document recording the seafarer's service, qualifications, experience, specialization, and skills. Service is the basis for employment in a shipping company, rank assignment, certificate acquisition, etc. Based on service in the service book, crewing companies select job placements for maritime specialists.
Information for the Seafarer
The seaman's book contains information about completed training, courses, and other professional programs. This allows maritime specialists to track their professional growth, develop skills, and plan their future career.
Documentation for Vessel Safety
In case of an incident or accident on vessels, the seaman's book serves as a document for investigation and incident analysis. It may contain information about the seafarer's performance of duties and compliance with safety requirements.
What Documents Are Required?
To obtain a seaman's book, you need to collect a package of documents:
- Ukrainian citizen's passport with registration page and identification code
- Certificate or diploma confirming qualifications (working documents)
- Seafarer's identity document
- 2 photos, size 3x4 cm
Cost and Processing
Currently, the seaman's book is obtained independently through the seafarer's electronic account. An application for obtaining a service book is submitted in the personal account. The paid application is sent for review.
Processing time: 10-20 days
Cost: 996 UAH + commission
The document arrives at the address (or Nova Poshta branch) specified in the application.
Processing Assistance
Having difficulties processing maritime documents? Contact the "Avant" Seafarer Training Center. More than 20 years of experience in seafarer training and education, issuing maritime certificates and working documents.
Or contact us directly:
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