Seafarer Certification

NMSA is the designated authority in Papua New Guinea for the certification of seafarers in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

All seafarers serving on PNG-flagged vessels or operating in PNG waters must hold valid certificates of competency or certificates of proficiency issued or endorsed by NMSA.

Types of Certificates

Certificates of Competency (CoC)

Certificates of Competency are issued to seafarers who have met the required standards of training, sea service, and examination. These include:

• Master — Class 1 to Class 5
• Mate / Chief Officer
• Engineer — Class 1 to Class 3
• Skipper — Coastal and Restricted Limits

Certificates of Proficiency (CoP)

Certificates of Proficiency are issued for specific skills and safety training:

• Basic Safety Training (BST)
• Survival Craft and Rescue Boats
• Advanced Fire Fighting
• Medical First Aid / Medical Care
• Ship Security Officer
• GMDSS Radio Operator

How to Apply

New Certificate

1. Complete the approved training program at a recognised maritime training institution
2. Accumulate the required sea service (varies by certificate grade)
3. Pass the NMSA written and oral examinations
4. Submit a completed application form with supporting documents
5. Pay the applicable fee (K 500.00 for new certificates)
6. Pass a medical fitness examination

Certificate Renewal

1. Submit a renewal application at least 3 months before expiry
2. Provide evidence of continuing sea service or approved refresher training
3. Pass a current medical fitness examination
4. Pay the renewal fee (K 300.00)

Training Requirements

Papua New Guinea recognises maritime training from institutions approved by NMSA. Training must comply with the STCW Convention standards. Key training areas include:

• Navigation and seamanship
• Marine engineering
• Safety and survival at sea
• Fire prevention and fire fighting
• First aid and medical care
• Maritime security awareness

Foreign Certificate Endorsement

Seafarers holding certificates issued by other STCW-compliant countries may apply for NMSA endorsement to serve on PNG-flagged vessels. Applications must include verified copies of original certificates and supporting documentation.