The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) on September 28, 2026, issued a notification regarding the Extension of Validity of CoCs, CoPs, and Other STCW Certificates Due to the heightened maritime security situation.
The following has been stated:
• It has further extended the validity of specified Certificates of Competency (CoCs), Certificates of Proficiency (CoPs), endorsements and other STCW certificates held by Indian seafarers serving onboard Indian-flagged or foreign-flagged vessels, in view of the continued heightened security situation in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Black Sea and Middle East/West Asia region. These certificates are valid for three months from the original expiry date or until the seafarer signs off from the vessel, whichever is earlier.
• The extension covers officers’ CoCs, ratings’ and trainees’ CoPs, specialized-operation certificates (including Tankers, IGF Code ships, Polar Waters and Passenger Ships), recognition endorsements and certificates relating to basic and advanced safety training courses, including PST, FPFF, PSSR Upgradation, PSCRB, AFF, MFA and MC, as well as their refresher courses.
• This temporary relaxation applies only to Indian seafarers serving onboard vessels on the date of issuance of the Circular who are unable to renew or revalidate their certificates due to the prevailing security situation. Shipping companies, RPSL agencies, MMDs, and Indian seafarers are advised to take note of the extension and ensure compliance.
[Notification No. - 64 OF 2026]
