Extension to the validity of Seafarer's Certificates and Ship's Statutory Certificates, Periodical Surveys & Audits in view of COVID-19 pandemic.

**Indian Seafarers: Maritime Regulatory Summary - DGS Order 13 of 2020** **Applicable to:** - Indian seafarers - Indian ship owners/operators - Recognized Organizations (ROs) **Effective Date:** - 20th May 2020 **Superseded Circulars:** - DGS Order 6 of 2020 and its Addendums **Key Changes and Requirements:** **1. Extension of Validity for Seafarer Certificates and Ship's Statutory Certificates** - **COC/COP/COE Extension:** - Expiring between 1st March and 31st December 2020 (both dates inclusive) - Extended by 6 months from the expiry date printed on the certificate - Revalidation possible after lockdown lifting, with new validity for 5 years from original expiry date - **Survey/Audit/Inspection Extension:** - Annual/periodical surveys, initial/intermediate/renewal inspections/audits extended by 3 months - Renewal/docking surveys extended beyond convention limits with RO surveyor visit and general examination - Extension based on Master/CE declaration and past survey history records if RO surveyor cannot board the vessel **2. Exemptions from Safe Manning Documents** - Case-by-case exemptions for crew sign-off due to port restrictions - Risk assessment required from the company - No fees charged, exemptions issued on email **3. Extension of Surveys Beyond IMo Convention Provisions** - Company to obtain permission from relevant maritime authorities before entering foreign load/discharge ports - Enhanced monitoring of ships by shore staff to ensure safety and security during extension period - RO to keep records and update them weekly, submitting to the Directorate **Important Note:** - Companies must bring ships back to normal survey/audit/inspection cycle after restoration of normalcy - ROs to assist companies in achieving this by keeping them posted regularly **Source:** - DGS Order 13 of 2020