DGMA extends validity of seafarer competency certificates amidst continuing Gulf crisis

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has extended the validity of essential seafaring certificates by three-months. The regulatory relaxation comes amidst the continuing volatility across West Asia. An earlier validity extension was given on March 29, 2026

“In view of the continued heightened maritime security situation in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Black Sea, West Asia region and adjoining waters, Indian seafarers serving onboard vessels operating in or transiting through such areas may continue to face operational, logistical and safety-related difficulties in completing the renewal or revalidation of their statutory certificates,” the DGMA circular said.

Accordingly, the validity of certificates held by Indian seafarers serving onboard Indian-flagged vessels or foreign-flagged vessels is further extended for three months from the date of expiry of the certificate or until the seafarer signs off from the vessel, DGMA said.


Also read | Dibrugarh set to resume international cargo movement on Brahmaputra after nearly 80 years

This extension shall be applicable only to Indian seafarers who are serving onboard vessels as on the date of issuance of this Circular and who are unable to complete the renewal or revalidation of their certificates due to the prevailing security situation.

The directive extends the expiration dates for Certificates of Competency (CoC), Certificates of Proficiency (CoP), and other mandatory STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) documents.

Also read | IFC to lend $70 million to JN Port for first blue financing in maritime sector