DGS Circular No. 22 of 2023 Addendum 3 in respect of DGS Circular No. 23 of 2022 dated 02.12.2022 Issuance of Bio metric Seafarer's Identity Documents (BSID) to Indian Seafa
Issued 25 Sept 2023
In short
The circular waives the requirement for Indian seafarers to hold BSID cards when applying for renewal, replacement or duplication of CDC booklets and certain other DGS services.
Previous extensions and relaxations for institutes and seafarers are referenced, and all stakeholders are asked to encourage seafarers to complete BSID data capture.
The change takes effect immediately after approval by the Director General of Shipping.
Official PDF
DGS Circular No. 22 of 2023 - Addendum 3 in respect of DGS Circular No. 23 of 2022 dated 02.12.2022 Issuance of Bio- met
1.4 MB · 2 pages
Key points
- Requirement for BSID cards when renewing or replacing CDCs is waived with immediate effect
- Seafarers no longer need BSID for issuance or revalidation of CoCs and CoPs or most courses except BST and STSDSD
- MTIs, RPS companies, unions and allied offices must promote BSID data capture before seafarers seek DGS services
Who it affects
- Indian seafarers
- MTIs
- RPS/Shipping Companies
- Unions
- Allied offices of the Directorate
What you need to do
- Seafarers should complete BSID data capture at nearest centre before seeking DGS services
- Stakeholders must promote and advise seafarers on BSID process
Questions and answers
What document number is printed on this circular?
DGS Crew Circular No.22 of 2023
When was this circular issued?
It was issued on 25 September 2023.
Does a seafarer still need a BSID card to renew a CDC?
No, the requirement is waived with immediate effect.
Which services no longer require a BSID card?
Renewal, replacement or duplication of CDCs, CoCs, CoPs and most courses except BST and STSDSD.
What should seafarers do about BSID anyway?
They should still complete data capture before seeking any DGS services.
Who approved this circular?
The Director General of Shipping, Government of India.
Which earlier circular is being added to?
DGS Crew Circular No. 23 of 2022 dated 02.12.2022.
What happens if a seafarer does not get a BSID card?
They can still use services covered by this waiver but are encouraged to obtain one.
Summary prepared by Eurotech Maritime Academy for reference. The attached PDF is the official text issued by the Directorate General of Shipping.
