DGS Circular 17 of 2026: STCW Certificate Extension Guide for Indian Seafarers
The shipping industry knows quite well what instability means, but during times of political unrest, the least of concerns for the seafarer is certainly having that one paper expire in mid-ocean.
DG shipping of Mumbai brought out DG circular number 17 of 2026 on March 29, 2026. This important circular pertains to the conditions of “force majeure” resulting from the security conditions in the Middle East and West Asia.
This article is meant for those who are serving on board and are confused about how to ensure that their credentials remain valid.
Why has this Extension been Granted?
Security in the Middle East and West Asia region has become very complicated. Due to the changes in operations and logistics issues, many Indian mariners could not disembark or complete the compulsory training on shore.
Considering the special situation, the DGS has intervened to give priority to the welfare of seafarers and continuous sailing of vessels.
Are you operating in the West Asia area at present? Please share your experience about the security situation at your ports through the comment box below.
What Certificates are Covered?
The extended coverage is not limited to one kind of ticket but includes many other kinds of documents of statutory nature.
1. Basic Professional Certificates
- Certificate of Competency (CoC): Applicable to all officers.
- Certificate of Proficiency (CoP): Applicable to ratings & trainees.
- Recognition Endorsement: Endorsements certifying the recognition of CoC.
2. CoPs for Specialized Vessel Operations
- In case you are sailing in a specialized vessel, your CoPs for such operations will also be included as follows:
- Tankers (Oil, Chemical, Gas)
- IGF Ships
- Polar Water Operations
- Passenger Ships
3. Basic and Advanced STCW Courses
Crucially, the extension applies to the “documentary evidence” or certificates for these seven vital training areas:
Duration of the Extension: The "Whichever is Earlier" Rule
This is the one you must put on your calendar. It will be valid for:
- Three (03) Months from the original expiry date OR,
- up to the time when you sign off from the ship.
Whichever comes first.
So, even if you have an expiry date of May 1st, but you sign off on June 15th, then your validity period will end on June 15th. This validity can never be used to allow you to stay at home and avoid your training sessions.
Who is Eligible?
The Directorate has established certain ‘Gatekeeper’ criteria for this extension as follows:
- Citizenship: One should belong to the category of Indian Seafarers.
- Service Status: He/She should be in service as of March 29, 2026.
- Ship’s Nationality: This will apply to seafarers who are either in Indian-registered ships or any other foreign registered ship.
- Reason: You must be truly unable to renew your license because of the current situation in West Asia/Middle East.
Action Plan for Seafarers and Companies
To Seafarers:
- Check Your Dates: Examine the dates of your expiry on your CoC/CoP.
- Notify Your Master: Make sure that your ship’s management is informed about Circular 17 of 2026 for updating their documentation and notifying PSC, where needed.
- Schedule Your Course: After signing off, make sure you take priority in revalidating your license. For fast tracking of your courses, don’t forget to visit stcwcoursefinder to find openings close to your base port.
To RPSL Agencies and Ship Management Companies:
- Make sure that all ships located in the said area have either a digital or printed version of this circular.
- Confirm that the certificates of seafarers under the said circular are kept track of properly.
Summary Checklist
Requirement | Details |
Circular Number | DGS Circular 17 of 2026 |
Issue Date | 29.03.2026 |
Extension Period | 3 Months or Sign-off (whichever is earlier) |
Applies to | CoC, CoP, and STCW Safety Courses |
Final Thoughts
It’s obvious that DGS knows what they’re doing; they’re watching the situation, and further advisories might come if conditions change. The grace period of three months could literally save you if you work in dangerous regions because it will not affect your career at all while you protect your ship and people.
Do you want to know more about your position or ship in regard to this topic? Write your comments below, and we will talk about it!
Note: In case you need help in finding STCW courses after returning from the sea, visit stcwcoursefinder.
