Apply for seafarer's identity card

You must apply in writing to the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) for proof of professional activity in maritime shipping.

• Go to the BSH website "Serviceportal Deutsche Flagge".
• Select the application form "Issuance of a Seafarers' Identity Document" and fill out the form.
• Then print out the form and sign it. If applicable, an alternate recipient must also sign the form if that person will pay the applicable fees.
• Attach the required documents, which can also be found as a checklist on the last application page.
• Submit the application documents to the BSH by mail.
• The BSH will review your application.
• If you meet all the requirements, the BSH will issue you with proof of professional activity in maritime shipping by mail.

Only seafarers or persons who can credibly demonstrate that they wish to become one may apply for a certificate.

When submitting the application, you must submit:

• valid identity card or passport (copy, front and back).
  • on this copy, be sure to blacken all document numbers (for example, accession number, 6 digits, and serial number, 9 digits)
• A recent passport photo, labeled with your name on the back (size 3.5 x 4.5 centimeters; does not need to be biometric)

Additionally, one of the following documents:

• Copy of a valid certificate according to the Seafarers' Qualification Ordinance, for example:
  • German certificate of competency or certificate of competency,
  • proof of qualification,
  • certificate of recognition or
  • Certificate of equivalence

or

• Proof of employment as another crew member on a merchant ship flying the German flag by presentation of a corresponding letter from the shipping company and a valid certificate of fitness for sea service

or

• Proof that the student or university student is enrolled in a nautical or ship operation or ship electrical engineering course of study at an educational institution established under state law.
  • Proof, for example, by means of a corresponding certificate of enrollment from a university or certificate of admission from a technical college) and a valid certificate of fitness for sea service

or

• "Vacation driver contract" arranged by the German Shipowners' Association (VDR) and a valid certificate of fitness for sea service

or

• Proof of training as a ship's mechanic and a valid certificate of fitness for sea service

or

• Proof of recognition of practical training and seagoing service from the BSH and a valid certificate of fitness for sea service.

• § 62 Seeleute-Befähigungsverordnung (See-BV)
• § 3 Absatz 1 Satz 1 Nummer 6 Seeleute-Befähigungsverordnung (See-BV)

• Opposition

There are no clues or specifics.

The text was automatically translated based on the German content.