Seaman Book Application – Maritime Finance

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APPLY FOR A SEAMAN BOOK HERE

🌍 About the Seafarer’s Discharge Book (Bahamian Registry)

This certificate serves as an official identification and record of your sea service under the Bahamian registry, maintained in line with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).

While not a replacement for your passport, in certain cases it can act as a visa waiver when boarding or disembarking vessels in select ports — particularly within countries under the Schengen system.

📋 Seafarer Record Book Application Requirements

To apply for your Seafarer’s Record Book, please ensure you have the following documents ready:

✅ SAMSA-Approved Medical Fitness Certificate
Must be issued by a SAMSA-approved doctor.

🆔 Valid South African ID or Passport
Applicant must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.

🖼️ Two (2) Colour ID/Passport Photos
Photos must be recent, clear, and unfiltered.

📄 Letter of Employment
Must be issued by your employer or recruitment agency.

🌊 Personal Survival Techniques (PST) Training Certificate
This STCW-required safety course must be completed through an accredited maritime training provider.

📝 Completed Seafarer Record Book Application Form
(Form must be filled out accurately and completely.)

⚠️ IMPORTANT:
All certificates and documents must be certified at a South African Police Station.

Benefits of Owning a Seaman’s Discharge Book

While not always mandatory, a Seaman’s Discharge Book is highly recommended for anyone serious about building a long-term career at sea. Here’s why:

✅ Visa Exemptions at Ports
Holding a valid seaman’s book can exempt you from needing a visa when joining or leaving a vessel at international ports.

✅ Required for Certifications
Many maritime authorities require a seaman’s book when issuing Certificates of Competency (COC) and other essential marine qualifications.

✅ Travel Allowance Eligibility
You may be entitled to travel allowances and reimbursements from certain employers or agencies if you hold a registered seaman’s book.

✅ Official Career Record
It serves as an official log of your sea service, with all roles, ranks, and contracts documented and signed by authorized personnel – helping to verify your experience for future opportunities.

✅ Career Credibility
Having a seaman’s book adds credibility and professionalism to your profile, showing commitment to your career as a maritime professional.

💳 Application Fee Notice

Please note that the total cost for the Seaman’s Book application is R2,200
This fee includes:

✅ All SAMSA fees

✅ Our processing service

✅ Submission to SAMSA Head Office in Pretoria

✅ Courier return of the completed book

STEP 1

For any questions or assistance, feel free to contact us at: 📧 Info@maritimefinance.co.za

STEP 2

Once completed the SAMSA Online Application Form please pay and send POP to accounting@maritimefinance.co.za.

YOUR CHECKLIST

SAMSA-Approved Medical Fitness Certificate

Your medical must be issued by a SAMSA-approved doctor.

📍 View the full list of approved practitioners here:
🔗 https://www.samsa.org.za/Documents/Practice/2_By%20Area.pdf

Personal Survival Techniques (PST) Certificate

If you do not already hold a valid PST certificate, please book your 2-day Personal Survival Techniques course at Maritime Safety using the link below:
🔗 https://www.maritimesafety.co.za/our-courses/personal-survival-techniques/

Valid South African ID or Passport

Two (2) Colour ID/Passport Photos

Recent and clear, No filters, glasses, or hats

Letter of Employment

From your cruise line, employer, or recruitment agency

Completed Seafarer Record Book Application Form

Please complete the digital version of the form using the link below: 🔗:https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/6a405656abad4d13b47778ee7ce960e0

⏳ Processing Time:

The full process typically takes 2–3 weeks, depending on SAMSA’s system delays.

📌 Important Notes:

🧾 Payment must be made in full before any submission is processed.
💳 Please use your full name as the payment reference.
❌ If you cancel after payment, only a 50% refund will be issued.