SEAFARERS

Seafarer Documentation

Clear standards. Secure records. International recognition.

The Vanuatu International Shipping Registry (VISR) supports safe manning and international compliance by issuing and maintaining seafarer documentation for service on Vanuatu-flagged vessels. Seafarer services are administered by the Maritime Administrator in accordance with the Maritime Act (as amended), applicable regulations, and relevant international standards, including the STCW Convention.

VISR’s approach balances regulatory integrity, efficient processing, and strong document verification, ensuring confidence for shipowners, employers, port State authorities, and seafarers.

What VISR provides

• STCW endorsements recognizing certificates of competency or proficiency issued by other competent authorities, where applicable
• Flag confirmations or endorsements for specific functions when required
• Replacement or re-issuance of VISR-issued documents (lost, damaged, or amended details)
• Verification of seafarer documents for employers, authorities, and other stakeholders
• Guidance on documentation requirements for service on Vanuatu-flagged vessels

Who may apply

Applications may be submitted by:

• Seafarers applying directly
• Vessel owners, operators, or managers
• Crewing agencies
• Recognized agents
• Employers acting on behalf of a seafarer

Depending on the document requested, VISR may require confirmation of intended service on a Vanuatu-flagged vessel.

To protect the integrity of the Vanuatu flag, all applications are subject to identity and document verification. Incomplete, inconsistent, or unverifiable submissions are not processed.

How the process works

1. Submission – A complete application is submitted through official VISR channels or via a recognized agent.
2. Verification – VISR verifies identity, certificate authenticity, and compliance with applicable requirements.
3. Decision – Upon approval, documentation is issued in accordance with VISR procedures.
4. Delivery – Documents are issued electronically and/or by courier, depending on document type.

Service standards

Once a complete and compliant application is received:

• Acknowledgement: within 1 business day
• Processing: typically 3–5 business days
• Priority handling: considered where safety, compliance, or operational continuity is at risk

Fees

Applicable fees are published in the VISR Fee Schedule. The Maritime Administrator may adjust fees to respond to market conditions and operational requirements, and may issue policies, circulars, or administrative instructions to support compliance and service delivery.

Verification and integrity

VISR maintains secure registry records and supports verification requests from competent authorities and employers.

• Verification requests must be made through official VISR channels
• Screenshots or unofficial copies should not be relied upon
• Suspected fraud or document tampering must be reported immediately

VISR applies a zero-tolerance approach to misrepresentation or document fraud.