How to become a seafarer in Sri Lanka

Facts from official sources only, each with a link to the source. Choose the path that fits you.

Choose your path

I am at school or have just finished school

Officer through a maritime academy and cadet training at sea, or rating through a rating course.

I am an adult and want to change my career

Age limits, entry through your shore profession, the minimum set of documents, official fees and timing.

What both paths have in common

In Sri Lanka the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is issued by the Merchant Shipping Secretariat (MSS).
Source: Ocean University of Sri Lanka: Seafarers Unit
To obtain a CDC, a candidate must complete an MSS-approved course that follows STCW standards.
Source: Ocean University of Sri Lanka: Seafarers Unit
Every certificated seafarer serving at sea must also hold a valid medical certificate.
Source: Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2016 (Gazette Extraordinary No. 1987/19)
A candidate for a seafarer medical certificate must be at least sixteen.
Source: Amendment to the Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2016 (Gazette Extraordinary No. 2303/16, 26.10.2022)
A seafarer medical certificate is valid for a maximum of two years.
Source: Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2016 (Gazette Extraordinary No. 1987/19)
A shorter validity applies to seafarers below eighteen or over fifty-five.
Source: Amendment to the Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2016 (Gazette Extraordinary No. 2303/16, 26.10.2022)
All seafarers must complete safety familiarization and basic training under STCW VI/1.
Source: IMO, STCW/CONF.2/33 (2010): Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention
Under the MLC 2006, no person under 16 may work on board a ship.
Source: ILO, Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (as amended)

Beware of scams

Holding a forged certificate or one obtained by fraud is an offence punishable by a fine or imprisonment.
Source: Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2016 (Gazette Extraordinary No. 1987/19)
To get a CDC, use only courses approved by the Merchant Shipping Secretariat.
Source: Ocean University of Sri Lanka: Seafarers Unit

Krew Guru numbers

89% of open vacancies on Krew Guru accept citizens of Sri Lanka.

Seafarer profiles from Sri Lanka on Krew Guru: 1,300+.

Checked: 26 Oct 2026. Rules change, so always check with the maritime authority: Merchant Shipping Secretariat (Director-General of Merchant Shipping), Ministry of Ports and Shipping