Learn about the total RPSL (Recruiting and Placement Services License) licenses issued in 2026. Understand how RPSL works, who issues it, and its impact on maritime recruitment.
An RPSL (Recruiting and Placement Services License) is issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), India, allowing a company to legally recruit seafarers for overseas employment.
No. Recruiting or placing seafarers without a valid RPSL license is illegal and can lead to penalties, suspension, or blacklisting under maritime regulations.
Only companies registered in India, with proper infrastructure, compliance setup, and documentation, are eligible to apply for an RPSL under Merchant Shipping Rules.
You can verify the list of valid, suspended, expired, and cancelled RPSL licenses on the official DG Shipping website or through maritime regulatory portals.
Since the introduction of the RPSL framework, over 891 licenses have been issued, including active, expired, suspended, and cancelled licenses.