Ukraine has changed the rules for certifying seafarers

Changes to the rules for certifying seafarers have come into force in Ukraine.

This was reported by the Shipping Administration.

The order of the Ministry of Development of Ukraine dated August 13, 2026 No. 1624 “On Amendments to Certain Regulatory and Legal Acts of the Ministry of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure of Ukraine” has come into force.

What has changed for seafarers:

• Sample diplomas for captains-mechanics and shipmasters-mechanics have been approved;

• The requirement to have a valid seafarer’s medical certificate when obtaining a qualification document has been extended to rank-and-file personnel.

Previously, such a requirement was provided for command personnel, and from now on it also applies to rank-and-file personnel of seagoing vessels.

Corresponding changes have been made to the Rules for Certification of Seafarers’ Crews, approved by the Order of the Ministry of Development dated 05.09.2023 No. 784.

You can familiarize yourself with the updated rules at the link.

The requirement for medical fitness of a seafarer is provided for by the STCW Convention, in particular Rule I/9, the Shipping Administration noted.

The Ministry of Development also updated samples of diplomas and other qualification documents.

This is not a complete list of the provisions of Order No. 1624, but key changes that relate to the certification of seafarers.