Seafarers

Certification Requirements

Every foreign-going ship must carry certificated officers in both deck and engine departments. Zambia Ship Registry has undertakings in place under the STCW Convention Reg. 1/10 with several certificate-issuing countries, all of which are white-listed under STCW.

We issue endorsements to officers from countries that issue STCW-compliant certificates of competency. If certificates are in another language, an English translation must be provided.

Medical & MLC Requirements

Officers must carry a valid current medical certificate that meets STCW and ILO requirements. Zambia has ratified the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, and ships are inspected annually to ensure compliance with MLC aspects like crew accommodation, crew agreements, and living conditions.

Application Process

To apply for a Zambia Officer’s endorsement, visit our Forms page and download PPS01-F01 Application for Certificate of Endorsement and Seaman’s Record Book. Instructions for completing and returning the form are included in the notes.

On receipt of a valid completed application, a Certificate of Receipt of Application (CRA) will be issued as soon as possible to the ship Owner/Manager or authorized crewing agency making the application. The CRA allows the holder to serve on board a Zambia registered ship for a maximum period of three months, pending issue of the full endorsement. A full endorsement will follow before the expiry date of the CRA

Certificate Verification

Verification of Zambia-issued Certificates of Endorsement can be done via our online portal system.

Ratings and Additional Notes

Endorsements are also issued to Ratings and Officers holding Certificates from “White Listed” countries under STCW Reg. 1/10.

Note: We do not accept applications directly from individuals. Owners/operators must authorize crewing agencies in writing, confirming compliance with ISM systems and MLC 2006 Regulations for Recruitment & Placement.