British Seaman Card Photo

To obtain a British Seaman’s Card, you must apply through the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). You can complete the application in person at a local Marine Office. The cost for a Seaman’s Card is £105, with an additional £105 for a discharge book, or £160 if applying for both documents simultaneously. It is essential to book an appointment with the Marine Office before you visit, as they require prior scheduling. For more detailed information and to find contact details for your local Marine Office, you can visit the official UK Government website at https://www.gov.uk/get-seamans-discharge-book-or-british-seamans-card.

For postal applications, the processing time for a first issue, continuation, or replacement of a Seaman’s Discharge Book and/or British Seaman’s Card is typically within ten working days once the application is complete. However, please note that this timeline can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. It is advisable to ensure that your application is fully completed and all required documents are included to avoid delays.

Yes, seafarers who are nationals of countries that require a visa (referred to as “visa nationals”) may need a visa to enter the UK, depending on the purpose of their visit. If their stay is for 6 months or less, a visitor visa may be required for specific activities such as private visits, traveling as passengers, or signing on ship’s articles as supernumeraries at nominal rates of pay. It is important to ensure that the visa type aligns with the reason for travel.

A Seaman’s Book, also known as a Seaman’s Discharge Book, is a specialized document for mariners that serves as both an official record of sea service and proof of employment at sea. Unlike a passport, which is primarily used for international travel and identification, a Seaman’s Book specifically tracks a seafarer’s sea time, employment history, and qualifications. It includes essential details such as the seafarer’s name, photo, nationality, identification number, and a record of voyages undertaken. While a passport is required for international travel, a Seaman’s Book is vital for professional maritime activities.