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Launch of the Enhanced Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) Module and Discontinuation of Separate e-Migrate Access for Non-Seafarers under Merchant Shipping Notice No.02 of 2018

Applicable to: All concerned stakeholders
Effective Date: 15 October 2026 (Beta launch), 1 November 2026 (e-Migrate Consent & Digital SEA)
Superseded Circulars: Merchant Shipping Notice No. 02 of 2018

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Enhanced RPSL Module Launch

The enhanced RPSL Module will become operational on 15 October 2026, offering streamlined services for license applications, renewals, inspections, and profile management.

  • Services: Fresh license, unified license, renewal, inspections, profile creation/management, and corrections/updates.

2. e-Migrate Consent & Digital SEA Rollout

e-Migrate Consent for joining foreign-flag vessels and Digital Seafarers’ Employment Agreement for Indian-flag vessels will be available from 1 November 2026.

Existing procedures for opening Articles of Agreement/Form 1 remain until further notice.

3. Discontinuation of Separate e-Migrate Access for Non-Seafarers

Separate e-Migrate authorisation for non-seafarer categories under Merchant Shipping Notice No. 02 of 2018 is discontinued. Transition to the enhanced RPSL Module is required within 3 months.

  • Entities: Companies, firms, proprietorships, etc. recruiting/placing technicians, supernumeraries, surveyors, or other non-seafarer categories on foreign-flag vessels.
  • Compliance: Follow licensing, inspection, fee, reporting, and other requirements under the Merchant Shipping (Recruitment and Placement of Seafarers) Rules, 2026.
Important Note

All stakeholders must comply with the requirements and timelines stipulated in this Circular and the applicable rules, notices, and directions issued by the Directorate.

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