Panama Maritime License

Panama Canal

Panama

Panama is the largest flag state in the world, with 9,596 vessels sailing under its flag. Panama’s strategic location between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans allows it to be one of the biggest positions in the world of trade. Panama Ship Registry was established in 1917 and will enable vessels to be registered if they meet the conditions of compliance with local and International Standards related to navigation, maritime, safety, prevention, pollution control, and staffing certification of seafarers.

Panama is on the white-list of the Paris MOU, which means that it meets the highest qualifications concerning maritime safety standards among a select group of countries. It is also listed in category “A” of the International Maritime Organization Council, and has kept this important level since 2003.

  • Requirements will differ depending on the position you are applying for. A mariner must provide Panama-approved course certificates if no national CoC is provided. Inquire with Maritime Licensing Agency if you need clarification on-course training. If a sample course certificate is provided, we will verify with Panama if it is accepted. It is best to book the course training if you are sure Panama will accept it. Requesting a sample certificate from the facility in question will be the best way to save you time and money.

    To start the process, you will need to upload the following documents when making an application:

    • Valid Identification for Non-National (Passport) or Valid Personal Identity Card for Panamanians

    • Color Passport Photo

    • Panama Application

    • Valid Medical Certificate in accordance with the Section I/9 of the STCW ‘78

    • Letter of Recommendation

    • Security Proficiency Certificate: Security Awareness, Designated Security Duties, or Ship Security Awareness

    • The level of Security Proficiency is based on the position being applied for.

    Technical Requirements – this is based on what is being applied for

    • National Certificate of Competency (if applicable)

    • Panama approved course certificate of training

  • To start the process, you will need to upload the following documents when making an application:

    • Valid Identification for Non-National (Passport) or Valid Personal Identity Card for Panamanians

    • Color Passport Photo

    • Panama Application

    • Valid Medical Certificate in accordance with the Section I/9 of the STCW ‘78

    • Letter of Recommendation

    • Security Proficiency Certificate: Security Awareness, Designated Security Duties, or Ship Security Awareness

    • The level of Security Proficiency is based on the position being applied for.

    Technical Requirements – this is based on what is being applied for.

    • National Certificate of Competency (if applicable)

    • Panama approved course certificate of training

Panama Maritime License

At Maritime Licensing Agency, we will work one-on-one with you to ensure an easy and painless process. Send us your documents and all listed requirements, and we will review them and advise if anything is lacking. (Requirements can be requested by email at (infor@licensedmariner.com) We will supply you with the correct and most up-to-date applications and forms needed to proceed with your Panama license scrutinizing for errors to avoid any delays in processing.

We will verify any course training or current licenses issued. We will oversee submitting your application, providing you with a temporary license, and ensuring that your license is issued correctly by Panama, as well, we will speak on your behalf if any issues may arise during Panama’s evaluation.

  • How does Maritime Licensing Agency serve the mariner in the Panama license process?

Panama Maritime Certifications

Panama issues licenses for the following and must be carried on the mariner when working on flag state vessel: 

Files and documents

Requirements will differ depending on the position you are applying for. A mariner must provide Panama-approved course certificates if no national CoC is provided. Inquire with Maritime Licensing Agency if you need clarification on-course training. If a sample course certificate is provided, we will verify with Panama if it is accepted. It is best to book the course training if you are sure Panama will accept it. Requesting a sample certificate from the facility in question will be the best way to save you time and money.

Common Panama licenses you may obtain:

  • Master 

  • OIM Offshore Installation Manager 

  • Barge Supervisor 

  • Ballast Control Operator BCO 

  • Chief Mate 

  • 1st, 2nd, 3rd Mate or Officer in Charge of Nav Watch 

  • Chief Engineer 

  • 1st, 2nd, 3rd Engineer or Officer in Charge of Engine Watch 

  • Maintenance Supervisor 

  • GMDSS 

  • Ship Security Officer 

Panama endorsements you may obtain:

  • AB-Deck 

  • AB-Engine 

  • AB-Modu 

  • QMED (Qualified Member of Engine Department)  

  • ETO (Electronic Technical Operator) 

  • Ability in Survival Craft 

  • Fast Rescue Boat 

  • Radio Operator 

  • Basic Safety Training 

  • Security Awareness 

  • Designated Security Duties