Comprehensive guide to MLC/STCW-compliant medical requirements for seafarers worldwide
Identify your vessel's flag
Check if flag has own form/approved doctors
For RMI/Liberia/Panama, check nationality controls
For UK/REG flags, ENG1 is normally safe
Don't confuse with company PEME
Essential information for crew coordinators and maritime professionals
2 years for adults
1 year for under 18
6 years colour vision
English or official translation required for international voyages
Must be recognized by competent authority
Shows fitness outcome only, no diagnoses
No single "MLC medical" exists - requirements are flag-accepted seafarer medical certificates that meet STCW Code A-I/9 and ILO/IMO Guidelines
Certificate issued by doctors recognized by the competent authority where examined. Must meet STCW Code A-I/9 and ILO/IMO Guidelines.
May impose specific formats, approved-doctor lists, and validation steps in addition to MLC/STCW compliance.
UK ENG1 is widely accepted across REG and other flags. Always confirm on the flag page. Malta note: ENG1 equivalence only when Malta medical is issued in Malta by a Malta-licensed doctor.
OGUK/UKOG medical is NOT a substitute for a statutory seafarer medical certificate. These are additional requirements for offshore work.
Search and filter through medical requirements for different flag states
How to verify approved medical practitioners for each flag administration
Common questions about seafarer medical certificates
Latest changes to flag requirements and regulations
Updated guidance on medical examinations and certificates for seafarers
June 2024Transport Malta Medical Fitness Certificate format requirements
October 2024Updated seafarers medical certification guidance and MSN 1887
July 2024Updated implementation of MLC A1.2 requirements
December 2024New list of approved doctors/hospitals for 2025
January 2025