DGS Circular No. 17 of 2026 Extension of validity of Certificates of Competency (CoC), Certificates of Proficiency (CoP) and other STCW certificates due to the prevailing securit
Issued 29 Mar 2026
In short
The Directorate extends validity of certain certificates for Indian seafarers on board vessels because of security issues in the Middle East and West Asia region.
Certificates of Competency, Certificates of Proficiency and listed STCW training courses get a three-month extension from expiry or until sign-off, whichever comes first.
This applies only to seafarers already serving on ships at the time of the circular who cannot renew due to the situation. Companies and agencies should note the temporary measure.
Official PDF
DGS Circular No. 17 of 2026 - Extension of validity of Certificates of Competency CoC Certificates of Proficiency CoP an
1.0 MB · 2 pages
Key points
- Validity extended for CoC, CoP and specialised endorsements by three months or until sign-off
- STCW courses covered include PST, FPFF, PSSR, PSCRB, AFF, MFA and MC
- Only Indian seafarers serving on vessels on 29 March 2026 qualify
- Extension ends when situation changes or further directions issued
Who it affects
- Indian seafarers serving on Indian or foreign flagged vessels
- Shipping companies
- RPSL agencies
What you need to do
- Check if your certificate expiry falls under the extension period
- Keep records of service and certificate dates
- Contact company or RPSL if renewal cannot be completed
- Monitor DGS website for any further updates
Questions and answers
Who can use the three-month certificate extension?
Indian seafarers serving on board vessels on the date the circular was issued who cannot renew due to the regional situation.
Which certificates get the extension?
Certificates of Competency for officers, Certificates of Proficiency for ratings, specialised CoPs and recognition endorsements.
How long does the extension last?
Three months from the original expiry date or until the seafarer signs off, whichever is earlier.
Does the extension cover STCW safety courses?
Yes, it covers PST, FPFF, PSSR Upgradation, PSCRB, AFF, MFA and MC courses.
What should a seafarer do if the certificate expires soon?
Continue service and keep proof of the extension; renew when possible after signing off or when the situation allows.
Summary prepared by Eurotech Maritime Academy for reference. The attached PDF is the official text issued by the Directorate General of Shipping.
