The validity of seafarers’ identity documents and certificates of Azerbaijani seafarers will be extended

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State Maritime Agency will extend the validity of seafarers’ identity documents and certificates of Azerbaijani seafarers who are currently serving onboard ships engaged in the international voyages until 31 March 2021.

It is noteworthy that the validity of expired seafarers’ identity documents and certificates initially was extended until 01 July 2020, 01 October 2020 and then until 31 December 2020.

State Maritime Agency has already informed the International Maritime Organization, Azerbaijani seafarers, ship owners, shipping companies, Port State Control and Flag State Authorities, manning/crewing agencies and other individuals concerned about the adopted procedures for the mitigation of disruption to the delivery of essential services in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

The possibility of expiration of seafarers’ identity documents and certificates issued in line with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, has necessitated taking decisive steps.

Taking into account the seafarers who are working onboard Azerbaijani and foreign-flagged ships that are currently undertaking international voyages, State Maritime Agency will extend the validity of expired seafarers’ identity documents and certificates until 31 March 2021 subject to the following conditions.

It is important to note that relevant manning/crewing agencies, shipping companies, and seafarers shall submit the following documents electronically in addition to the application for the extension of the validity:

– an official letter from the concerned ship owner/principal, crewing agent, or seafarer stating the reason for the extension;

– a written statement or official issuance from the port or immigration Authority that disembarkation is not allowed in the wake of the current circumstances;

– copy of valid employment contract.