Seafarers' Identity document - amendments entered into force improving access for shore leave

Amendments adopted to the Annexes of the International Labour Organisation (ILO)'s Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention, 2003, ( Convention 185) came into force on 8 June 2017. The amendments incorporated the latest standards adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) so that seafarers' identity documents are aligned with the ICAO's specifications used in E-passports.

These changes allow the use of facial images stored in a contactless chip for the identity documents. It is expected that the issuance of the new seafarer's identity document featuring the latest technology, will contribute strongly in facilitating access to shore leave, transfer and transit for more than 1.5 million seafarers working and living on ships involved in international trade; making it easy for them to travel without a visa to join their ships and to disembark in ports. This will also enhance security in ports and borders through the use of a secure and internationally recognised document.

At the time of writing, there is a total of 33 member States that have ratified the Convention 185. The effective implementation of ILO Convention 185 is not only of great importance for seafarers, improving their welfare in terms of their living and working conditions, but it also paves the way for achieving safer shipping and marine environment protection.

For more details, please click here for Amendments to Convention 185. Members can also refer to booklet on Convention 185, a book prepared by ILO for a better understanding of the said Convention.