How to become a seafarer in Philippines
Facts from official sources only, each with a link to the source. Choose the path that fits you.
Choose your path
What both paths have in common
- The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is the single maritime administration implementing the STCW Convention in the Philippines.
- Except for cadets, the minimum age to work on board ships is 18 years.
- A cadet is a maritime student at least 16 years old who must train on board a ship to complete a maritime degree or course.
- The pre-employment medical examination (PEME) of overseas seafarers may only be done in medical facilities accredited by the Department of Health (DOH).
- All seafarers must complete safety familiarization and basic training under STCW VI/1.
- The Seafarer's Record Book (SRB), issued by MARINA to Filipino seafarers and cadets, is the record of sea service.
- The Seafarer's Identity Document (SID) is an international identity document under ILO Convention 185.
- A seafarer whose old SIRB is still valid for more than 6 months does not need to apply for the SRB and SID yet.
Beware of scams
- Only licensed manning agencies may recruit and place seafarers.
- Recruitment or placement fees, visa and related costs may not be collected from seafarers.
- Only the cost of a medical certificate, seafarer's record book, passport or similar travel documents may be charged to the seafarer.
- Never pay any fee for a cruise ship job, including recruitment and placement fees.
- Warning signs of a cruise job scam: jobs advertised on free websites and social media, e-mails from free accounts, and requests for visa, training or lawyer fees.
- Scammers often pose as recruiters for well-known cruise lines and ask for a fee upfront, then disappear.
Krew Guru numbers
89% of open vacancies on Krew Guru accept citizens of Philippines.
Seafarer profiles from Philippines on Krew Guru: 6,000+.
Checked: 26 Oct 2026. Rules change, so always check with the maritime authority: Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)