Apply for Your Seaman’s Book
Quickly, Easily, and 100% Online
Your career at sea starts here.
We provide a fast and professional service to manage your Seamans Book application from start to finish — saving you time, avoiding delays, and ensuring you’re fully compliant with maritime requirements.
Whether you’re a first-time seafarer, renewing an expired book, or joining a new vessel, we make the process simple.
Start your Seaman's Book application now
What Is a Seaman's Discharge Book?
A Seaman’s Book — also known as a Seaman Book, Seaman Discharge Book, or Seafarer’s Book — is an internationally recognized document that identifies a person as a professional seafarer.
It records your time spent at sea, your roles onboard, and other official information related to your maritime career. Many ports and employers require a valid Seamans Book before allowing you to board a vessel.
Also Known As:
Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB)
Seaman Service Record Book
Discharge Book (in some countries)
This document is your maritime career passport. Without it, your ability to work legally on board a commercial vessel is limited.
Why Do You Need a Seaman's Book?
A Seaman’s Book is not just a formality — it’s a legal requirement for most professional seafarers working on vessels that cross international waters.
The Seaman's Book:
Certifies your legal status as a maritime worker
Records your official sea time
Is often used for visa and border entry for crew
Proves your maritime qualifications to employers
May be needed for insurance, pensions, and STCW courses
Employers prefer to hire candidates who are ready to join vessels immediately — and that means having your Seafarer’s book in order.
Who Can Apply for a Seaman's Book?
Anyone working aboard a commercial vessel — from cruise ships to oil tankers — may need a Seaman’s Book, including:
• Deckhands, engineers, and stewards
• Offshore rig workers and marine contractors
• Cruise ship hospitality staff
• Yacht crew
• Merchant marine officers
• New maritime trainees with proof of enrolment
You don’t always need prior sea time to apply. Some countries allow you to get a Seaman Book in advance with evidence of an upcoming contract or training course.
Why Choose Our Seaman’s Book Service
Our service takes the stress out of the process.
Instead of spending hours figuring out how to apply for a Seaman’s Book, we handle it all for you.
What We Do:
Advise you on the best flag state (Panama, Liberia, etc.)
- Prepare and submit your full application
- Review all documents for errors
- Handle communication with authorities
- Send your Seaman’s Book directly to you
Everything is managed online, and we support applicants from all countries.
Seaman's Discharge Book Eligibility Requirements
Every flag state has its own criteria, but general requirements include:
- A valid passport
- Recent passport-style photographs
- Proof of sea employment or pre-sea training
- Medical fitness certificate (e.g., STCW or equivalent)
- Completed application forms
If you’re unsure about eligibility, we’ll assess your case and let you know what’s required — no guesswork.
What’s Inside a Seaman's Book?
The contents of a Seaman Book or Seafarer’s Book include:
• Personal identification and photograph
• Nationality, passport number, date of birth
• Sea service entries (signed by captains or officials)
• Discharge details from vessels
• Certification pages (STCW, medical, etc.)
• Endorsements and visa information (in some cases)
This document stays with you throughout your career and builds a verified record of your sea time — crucial when moving into higher roles or applying for licenses.
How Long Is a Seaman's Book Valid?
Typically, a Seaman’s Book is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. Some countries allow for renewal, while others issue a new book each time.
Running out of pages or an expired book can delay your ability to join a vessel — so we recommend starting the renewal process early.
Is It Valid Internationally?
Yes. Most major maritime flag states issue Seaman’s Books that are recognized internationally. Some of the most widely accepted include:
• Panama
• Liberia
• Marshall Islands
• Bahamas
• Malta
We’ll help you choose the flag that offers the broadest recognition based on your goals and employer requirements.
How Do I Renew a Seaman's Book?
If your Seamans Book is expired, damaged, or full, we can help renew it.
The Seaman Book Renewal Process Includes:
1. Reviewing your previous Seaman’s Book
2. Verifying your sea service records
3. Submitting your renewal application
4. Coordinating with the issuing flag authority
5. Sending the new book to your address
We also assist with lost or stolen books. Just let us know and we’ll help recover or replace it.
How Do I Apply For Seaman's Book
Yes. Our entire process is designed to be fast and fully online.
You Simply:
1. Upload your documents
2. Complete a short form
3. Let us handle the rest
We’ll provide confirmation, updates, and estimated delivery times. No need to visit embassies or government offices.
Benefits of Having a Seafearer's Book
Having a valid Seaman’s Book is crucial for maritime professionals.
Key Benefits:
• Faster onboarding with employers
• Easier entry through immigration as crew
• Proof of experience for future roles
• Access to seafarer-specific benefits (healthcare, tax)
• Supports applications for additional certifications
It’s more than just a log — it’s your professional identity at sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a Seaman's Book?
Use our online application system. We handle everything — from document checking to final delivery.
What is a Seaman Discharge Book?
It’s another name for the Seaman’s Book, focusing on your completed contracts and discharge notes. Some countries refer to it this way.
Can I use my book in another country?
Do I need sea experience to apply?
Not always. If you have an upcoming contract or training, you may still qualify.
Can you help if I lost my book?
How long does the process take?
Can you help with books from any country?
We primarily assist with books from internationally recognized flag states like Panama, Liberia, and the Marshall Islands — but contact us to check your specific case.
Apply For Your Seaman Book Today
You’ve got enough to focus on — training, flights, packing, paperwork. Let us take care of your Seaman’s Book so you can join your vessel with peace of mind:
Fast
Reliable
No hidden fees
Trusted by global seafarers
Click here to start your Seaman’s Book application now