New proposal to simplify and update rules on seafarers' training and certification

The European Commission has today adopted a legislative proposal to simplify and update the EU regulatory framework on seafarers' training and certification, including the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by Member States.

Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: "Providing a high level of education and training for the seafarers working on European ships is of eminent importance for maritime safety. Our proposal will maintain the highest standards and ensure a level playing field on training requirements for seafarers."

The main objective is to maintain the level of knowledge and skills for the seafarers working on-board the EU fleet by aligning the rules to the latest updates to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) adopted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

In addition, the proposal aims to increase the efficiency of the current administrative framework for the EU recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by third countries. Finally, the proposal should increase the legal clarity on the scope of the scheme for the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by the Member States.

The proposal amends Directive 2008/106/EC on the minimum level of seafarers' training and repeals Directive 2005/45/EC on mutual recognition of their certificates between EU Member States. The proposal builds upon the conclusions of a Regulatory Fitness and Performance (REFIT) evaluation, which identified elements hindering the effectiveness of the current rules.

More information

Proposal for a Directive amending Directive 2008/106/EC on the minimum level of training of seafarers and repealing Directive 2005/45/EC

Annex to the proposal

Staff Working Document: Refitting the EU legislation on seafarers' training and certification

Seafarers: education and training