The maritime industry demands precision, compliance, and authenticity when it comes to crew documentation. For Indian seafarers, having valid documents such as INDOS (Indian National Database of Seafarers), CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate), and other statutory approvals is not just a requirement — it is a passport to a professional sea career. This guide covers all major documentation required by crew members, the process to obtain them, and how they interconnect with maritime regulations.
Why is this important?
Proper documentation ensures your eligibility to work on vessels, safeguards against fraudulent recruitment practices, and aligns with international maritime compliance standards set by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) (www.dgshipping.gov.in).
What is INDOS and Why is it Required?
The Indian National Database of Seafarers (INDOS) is a unique identification number assigned to every Indian seafarer. It contains essential details such as personal information, training records, and certifications.
- Purpose: To verify the identity and training status of seafarers.
- Issued by: Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India.
- Mandatory for: All seafarers seeking employment on Indian or foreign-flagged ships.
Key Benefits of INDOS:
- Helps employers and maritime agencies verify authenticity.
- Prevents fraudulent practices in crew hiring.
- Serves as a centralized record for training and certification.
For detailed verification processes, you can explore platforms like Indosearch which streamline maritime document searches.
CDC – The Seafarer’s Service Passport
The Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) serves as a seafarer’s official record of service. It acts like a passport but is specific to maritime employment.
- Purpose: To record all voyages and sea service details.
- Issued by: Directorate General of Shipping (www.dgshipping.gov.in).
- Eligibility: Completion of mandatory pre-sea training from DGS-approved institutes.
Why is CDC important?
- Without a valid CDC, no seafarer can legally join a vessel.
- It ensures proper recognition of your sea-time records during promotions or advanced certifications.
For CDC and related documentation, aspiring seafarers can consult Indosearch RPSL services to verify genuine recruitment agencies.
Other Essential Crew Documentation
Apart from INDOS and CDC, seafarers must also maintain several supporting documents to comply with both Indian and international maritime standards:
| Document | Purpose | Issuing Authority |
| Passport | Required for international travel | Government of India |
| Medical Fitness Certificate | Confirms physical fitness for sea duties | DGS-approved Doctors (check list here) |
| STCW Certificates | Mandatory safety and specialized training certifications | DG Shipping-approved Institutes |
| RPSL Verification | Confirms recruitment agency’s authenticity | Verify here |
| Watchkeeping Certificates (for officers) | Required for officer-level service | DG Shipping |
All documentation should be verified for authenticity through official portals or recruitment agencies with DGS authorization to avoid fraudulent job offers.
Process to Obtain INDOS and CDC
- Enroll with a DGS-approved training institute.
- Apply for INDOS online via DG Shipping Portal.
- Undergo maritime training and medical checks from a DGS-approved doctor.
- Submit your CDC application after course completion.
- Verify your documents through authentic platforms like Indosearch to ensure no discrepancies.
Challenges Faced by Seafarers
- Fake recruitment agencies promising quick jobs without proper documentation.
- Delayed document processing due to incomplete applications.
- Medical fitness fraud, where candidates fail to consult approved doctors.
- International compliance issues for those without updated STCW or Watchkeeping certificates.
By using reliable verification tools, such as Indosearch RA page and DGS portals, seafarers can safeguard their careers.