Seafarer's Working Diploma
A seafarer's working diploma is an important document that certifies the competence of seafarers and confirms their right to serve on a vessel in a certain position. Depending on international standards such as the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), or the country, working diplomas may have different names and requirements.
What Does a Seafarer's Working Diploma Contain?
The working diploma contains information about the seafarer's places of service (voyages, rank, position, ship names, specialization, etc.). This is a mandatory document for going to sea on any vessel.
This document also confirms the acquisition of relevant knowledge and experience, and allows the seafarer to hold a certain position. Therefore, the stage of training and practical experience is mandatory for every seafarer.
Training at "Avant"
At the "Avant" Seafarer Training Center, experienced instructors provide all the necessary information. Courses are designed for both beginners in maritime affairs and experienced seafarers when changing specialties. To renew a working diploma in case of insufficient experience, a seafarer needs to complete retraining courses.
What Types of Seafarer's Working Diplomas Exist?
Certificate of Proficiency
Certificate of a specialist that allows a seafarer to have a non-convention type specialty.
Certificate of Competency
The working diploma itself. Allows you to hold the corresponding position according to STCW-95.
Endorsement
Endorsement to the diploma. Certifies the acquisition of special knowledge and experience by a maritime specialist. Renewed every five years.
Process of Obtaining a Working Diploma
The sequence of actions for obtaining a seafarer's working diploma is conventionally divided into the following stages:
1. Education and Training
It is necessary to complete training related to maritime specialties. This can be higher or secondary professional education specialized in maritime navigation, engineering, radio communications, etc. Some countries also require specialized training and courses that meet STCW requirements.
2. Accumulating Practical Experience
Often it is required to accumulate a certain amount of maritime experience before applying for a working diploma. Sea work experience can be gained through practice on ships, internships, or work in the maritime industry.
3. Passing CES Test or Experience Verification
If a maritime specialist is obtaining a working diploma in this specialization for the first time, it is necessary to successfully pass the CES test. If you need to renew your working diploma, verification of experience in the seafarer's service book is carried out.
4. Application Submission and Diploma Issuance
Having met the necessary requirements and passed exams, a seafarer can submit an application for a working diploma to the relevant maritime administration.
What Documents Are Required to Obtain a Working Diploma?
To obtain a seafarer's working diploma, certain documents are required that confirm your qualifications, education, and compliance with navigation requirements:
- Ukrainian passport
- Protocol of passing GCC: obtained by successfully passing the CES test
- Education diploma
- Training completion certificates
- Seafarer's passport
- Certificate from educational institution (for cadets)
- 3 photos measuring 3.5x4.5
Obtaining a working diploma requires preparation and submission of a certain set of documents. Current changes in legislation have complicated this process, so many use the services of specialists from the "Avant" center.
Support from "Avant"
The "AVANT" Seafarer Training Center provides support and consultations on the process of certification of maritime specialists in Ukraine. Our company assists in document processing and compliance with procedures in Maritime Administrations.
Assistance in Obtaining a Working Diploma
We help process the necessary documents so you can start working on a vessel. If you encounter difficulties at any stage of processing maritime documents and certificates, contact our specialists. Our managers will help you resolve any issue.
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Monday—Thursday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday — days off