Seaman’s book

Seaman's Book or Seafarer's ID book

  • What is a Seaman’s book, SIRB or Seafarer’s ID book? 

Seaman’s book (also know a Seaman’s Identification Record Book) is a form of identification and record book issued by foreign flag states for example Panama, Liberia, Marshall Islands, and Vanuatu; This is required by the registered country on record for the rig or vessel. It allows the mariner to record the seatime when working on the flagged vessel and may also hold other qualified endorsements if available, i.e., Able Seaman, Ability in Survival Craft, Fast Rescue Boats, Basic Safety Training, GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System), Radio Operator, Advanced Fire Fighting, Advanced First Aid, and more. A Seaman’s ID Record Book (SIRB) is valid for five (5) years from issuance.

A Seaman’s record Book is a full record of a seaman's career experience and certifications. All seafarers must carry this document while on board, which is also an official and legal record of their sea experience. The SIRB is one of the essential documents for applying for crew transit visas; it attests that the person holding it, is a Seaman as per The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and all records of employment on board of a merchant ship (sea service) is recorded in the Seaman Service Book.

Seaman's Book

  • Who is able to apply

Anyone seeking or working in the maritime industry may apply for a seaman’s identification record book. The applicant must have the qualifying documents listed above and pass legal inspection from the flag state they are applying for. Most applicants must be 16 years and above. Age restrictions are based on the flag state. Most everyone 18+ can apply.

  • What is needed to apply

To start the process, you will need to provide the following:

  • Copy of Valid signed passport (ID Page)

  • Current medical OEUK/OGUK or the particular medical form for the flag state needed. You can find these Medical forms located at the bottom of the appropriate page.

  • Passport photo

  • Completed and signed application for the appropriate flag state

  • Go to our website, use the request form, and fill out the information required. You can choose one or more of the consulates you would like to apply for a Seaman’s book. You will need to include the application, passport, color photo, and valid medical in the document section of the request form. Panama does not offer a Seaman’s Identification Record Book like the other consulates. You must apply for a rating which comes with course certificates.

  • A Seaman’s Identification Record Book is a passport-like book that allows the mariner to keep record of the sea time. It will have an issue and expiration date, name of seafarer, passport like photo, identification number for the consulate you apply for, citizenship, and place of birth.

  • Normally, seaman’s books are valid for 5 years.

  • The service book is a legal document that is accepted across most countries. Nations that are party to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the United Nations usually accept this document as valid ID proof. Note, however, there is no binding legal obligation for this.

  • A Seaman’s Service Book (aka Seaman’s Service Record), also known as a Seaman’s Discharge Book, is a comprehensive document in which several details and aspects of the seaman’s professional life are stored. It looks much like a passport and is of the same size but serves a very different purpose.

  • Yes, utilizing the same steps to obtain the original seaman’s book.

  • Go to our website, use the request form, and fill out the information required. You can choose one or more of the consulates you would like to get a Seaman’s book for. You will need to include the application, passport, color photo, and valid medical in the document section of the request form. Panama does not offer a Seaman’s Identification Record Book like the other consulates. You must apply for a rating which comes with course certificates.

  • The main requirement is that the individual needs to actually be registered with a shipping company and must provide a bonafide document of proof from the concerned employer.

  • No, but you can find the requirements and application online at www.maritimelicensingagency.com . Allow us to process your application for your seaman’s record book.

  • In such cases, the Service Book and a relevant certificate from the authorities and ship’s master are sufficient for gaining entry into the country. It doubles up as a visa and can be used as a legal document in almost all situations.