Becoming a seafarer in Bangladesh as a career change

Age limits

• The BMA cadet programme has an age limit of 21.
  Source: Bangladesh Marine Academy: Bachelor of Maritime Science (Nautical Science)
• Under STCW, a candidate for officer in charge of a navigational watch must be at least 18.
  Source: IMO, STCW/CONF.2/33 (2010): Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention

Entry through your shore profession

Minimum set of documents

• All seafarers must complete safety familiarization and basic training under STCW VI/1.
  Source: IMO, STCW/CONF.2/33 (2010): Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention
• A CDC from the GSO.
  Source: Government Shipping Office, Chattogram: services and notices
• Medical endorsement through the GSO.
  Source: Government Shipping Office, Chattogram: services and notices
• Seafarer registration and a roster book.
  Source: Government Shipping Office, Chattogram: services and notices

Costs and timing: official fees only

• The BMA nautical degree takes 4 years.
  Source: Bangladesh Marine Academy: Bachelor of Maritime Science (Nautical Science)
• The first 24 months are at the academy, followed by 12 months of paid sea service.
  Source: Bangladesh Marine Academy: Bachelor of Maritime Science (Nautical Science)

How to avoid scams

• Use only recruitment agents on the DOS list of approved seafarer recruitment agents; the list shows licence numbers and expiry dates.
  Source: Department of Shipping: approved seafarer recruitment agents
• Seafarer recruitment agents are licensed under the 2005 licensing rules.
  Source: Government Shipping Office, Chattogram: services and notices
• Seafarers' certificates of competency, certificates of proficiency and CDCs can be verified online through the DOS website.
  Source: Department of Shipping (DOS), Bangladesh: home page and e-services
• Check that a training institute is on the DOS list of approved maritime training institutes.
  Source: Department of Shipping: approved maritime training institutes
• Under the MLC 2006, recruitment and placement fees must not be charged to the seafarer.
  Source: ILO, Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (as amended)

First job: starter vacancies

Krew Guru numbers