Following are the documents that are normally asked for:
1. CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate): Perhaps the most important thing for a seafarer, this booklet must be kept handy at all times. The CDC number is always required when filling out application forms for a job, to do maritime courses, for endorsement etc.
2. INDoS (Indian Database of Seafarers): Another important document that must be carried at all times. Read more about INDos number here. Every country has their own system of maritime database and fresh deck cadets must apply for their number as soon as possible.
3. STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Certificates: The mandatory STCW certificates comprising of PST (Personal Survival Techniques), PSSR (Personal Safety and Social Responsibility), EFA (Elementary First Aid), FPFF (Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting). All these are mandatory courses which are to be carried out by sea going professionals.
4. Passport: The ultimate proof of identity for seafarers apart from CDC. Seafarers are advised to keep passport always with them when getting documentation related work done. Deck cadets must carry this everywhere.
5. Seafarer Identity Document (SID): In accordance with Convention, is a two-sided card that contains the holder’s digital photograph, biometric data, signature and personal information (complete name, date and place of birth, citizenship, etc.) as well as other information presented in a select list found in Annexure I of the Convention.
6. Course Completion Certificate: The proof of having completed the tenure of presea training/ study at an authorised Maritime Training Institute approved by Directorate General of Shipping. This is issued by Maritime Administration of India as generated from DGS eGovernance Webportal with numbering standardized for all seafarers under Indian Flag.
7. Qualification Certificate: The proof of having completed the tenure of study at college. A certificate of degree/diploma is required for all documentation processes.
Following are the procedures to be completed before setting sail for which, the above mentioned documents shall be required:
1. Yellow Fever Vaccination: This vaccination is required for individuals travelling to South American and African countries. The shot can be obtained from the MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) for a fee of INR 300/- (Will vary according to the country). For this, documents required are photocopies of front and back pages of the CDC and Passport. Prior booking for the vaccination has to be done from the office of the Port Health Officer. The vaccination is valid for 10 years. This can be obtained even without an offer letter from a company.
2. OTF/GTF/CTF: Depending on the vessel the cadet will be sailing on, the respective course needs to be done for the particular type of vessel (Oil/Gas/Chemical). Always check for DG approval status on the website (www.dgshipping.com) before choosing the course at an institute.
3. Dangerous Cargo Endorsement (DCE): The OTF/GTF/CTF certificate completed can be rendered invalid if it is not endorsed at the MMD. Depending on the ship the Cadet will be sailing on, the necessary certificate (OTF/GTF/CTF) should be endorsed for a fee of INR 1040/-. Remember to include each and every document mentioned in the DCE checklist. The medical certificate is a bit tricky so it is advised to go through the exact tests and checkups required for the medical certificate to be considered appropriate.