Apply for a seafarer's identity document

If you work or intend to work professionally in maritime shipping, you can apply for proof in the form of a seafarer's identity document under certain conditions.

The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) issues proof of professional activity in maritime shipping in the form of a seafarer's identity card.

The use of the seafarer's identity document is voluntary and not a prerequisite for service on merchant ships flying the German flag.

The seaman's book serves as proof of professional activity in maritime shipping and is neither a passport substitute nor an official identity document.

You can obtain the seafarer's ID if you either

• possess a valid German certificate for seafarers or proof of employment as another crew member on a merchant vessel flying the German flag,
• are a technical school student or university student at a maritime training institution established under state law and are completing practical training and sea service on a ship,
• trainee ship mechanic,
• are students and were placed for a holiday internship by the German Shipowners" Association (VDR) as so-called "holiday workers" or
• are German and possess a valid foreign seafarers' certificate
• No data can be stored on the seafarer's identity card. The BSH processes applications for proof of professional activity in seagoing shipping.

Note:

The record of sea service used until May 31, 2019, and the former sign-on and sign-off procedure before the maritime offices have been abolished. You can document periods of sea service with employment certificates. Entered in a record of sea service

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

• Go to the "Serviceportal Deutsche Flagge" website of the BSH.
• Select the application form "Issuance of a seafarer's identity document" and fill out the form.
• Then print out the form and sign it. If applicable, an alternative recipient must also sign the form if this person is covering the incurred fees.
• Please include the required documents, which you can also find as a checklist on the last page of the application.
• Submit the application documents to the BSH by mail.
• The BSH is reviewing your application.
• If you meet all the requirements, the BSH will issue you proof of professional activity in sea navigation by mail.

• Objection