Documents / PassportPassport Validity rule of thumb, blank-page requirements, embassy contacts at major crew-change airports, and what to do if seized.
What it is An ordinary national passport. Seafarers usually travel on passports plus a seaman's book plus (where required) a crew transit visa.
Who needs it Every seafarer flying internationally for sign-on or sign-off. Some flag administrations also require a current passport scan in the SEA paperwork.
When it is checked Manning-agency intake. Airline check-in. Immigration at the joining country and at every transit airport. Master and port-state-control onboard. Verified source
Ships, crewmembers and the goods and passengers that they carry across borders are subject to a range of government controls, both on arrival and departure. These controls address a wide range of issues including ensuring public health, revenue protection, security, immigration,…
Cached 1 month ago via Firecrawl.
Common mistakes Validity too close to contract end — most airlines and immigration desks want six months beyond the contract's last date. Not enough blank pages — many countries require at least two empty visa pages. Damaged or water-stained — even a slightly torn cover can be refused at check-in. Surrendering the original to anyone other than immigration or the Master onboard. Validity Country-issued (typically 5–10 years). Check airline + destination-country validity rules before flying.
If lost or expired If lost while travelling, contact your country's nearest embassy or consulate. Carry a printed photocopy and a phone photo of the photo page and any current visa. Note: withholding a seafarer's passport by an employer or agent is unlawful in most jurisdictions — see /rights/passport-documents-held.
Printable checklist Passport valid 6+ months beyond end of contract. Two blank visa pages minimum. Photocopy of photo page + visa pages kept in hand luggage. Phone photos + cloud-stored PDF copies. Embassy / consulate number for the joining country saved in phone. Print
High confidence
Last verified 2 months ago
Verify with your flag state. Certification requirements vary by flag administration, vessel type, route, and the seafarer's role. This page describes the international STCW minimum. Your issuing maritime authority and your employer set the final list. Confirm before booking courses or accepting a contract. Editorial standards · Report a correction .