Passport

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.

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.

Last verified 15 days ago