Before applying for a shipboard position, Filipino seafarers should organize their important identification, training, certification, medical, and employment documents.
There is no single checklist that applies to every seafarer because requirements can depend on rank, vessel, employer, certification, and employment arrangement.
Basic Documents
Depending on your situation, you may need:
Valid passport
Seafarer identification documents
MARINA-related certificates
Certificate of Competency, when applicable
Certificate of Proficiency, when applicable
STCW training certificates
Medical certificate
Sea service records
Employment documents
School or training records
Other documents requested by the employer
Training Certificates
Keep your STCW-related certificates organized and check their validity where applicable.
MARINA provides online verification resources for COC, COP, radio personnel, and other marine certification records.
Medical Documents
Medical fitness requirements may apply before employment or deployment.
The exact requirements can vary, so applicants should confirm the current requirements with the appropriate authority, employer, or recognized medical facility.
Sea Service Records
Experienced seafarers should keep accurate documentation of previous sea service.
These records can become important when applying for higher positions or certification.
Employment Documents
Before signing an employment contract, carefully review:
Position
Employer
Vessel
Contract duration
Salary
Benefits
Working conditions
Repatriation arrangements
Other applicable terms
Create a Digital Backup
A useful habit is to keep digital copies of important documents in a secure location.
Organize them into folders such as:
01 – Identification
02 – STCW
03 – Medical
04 – Sea Service
05 – Employment
Final Reminder
Never assume that an old checklist is still current.
MARINA continues to publish new advisories and circulars, so requirements should be checked before processing documents.
This checklist is for general information only and should not replace the current requirements of MARINA, DMW, your employer, or licensed manning agency.
