How to become a seafarer in Ghana

Facts from official sources only, each with a link to the source. Choose the path that fits you.

Choose your path

I am at school or have just finished school

Officer through a maritime academy and cadet training at sea, or rating through a rating course.

I am an adult and want to change my career

Age limits, entry through your shore profession, the minimum set of documents, official fees and timing.

What both paths have in common

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
On a Ghanaian ship, a person under 18 may work only in exceptional cases, such as approved work on a school ship.
Source: Ghana Shipping Act, 2003 (Act 645)
Every candidate for a certificate needs a valid medical fitness document from a medical practitioner recognised by the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA).
Source: Merchant Shipping (Training, Certification, Manning and Watchkeeping) Regulations, 2004 (L.I. 1790)
The GMA keeps a list of recognised medical practitioners who examine seafarers.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Guidelines on Medical Examination for Seafarers (February 2020)
Colour vision is tested with Ishihara or equivalent colour plates.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Guidelines on Medical Examination for Seafarers (February 2020)
Seafarer medical examinations are normally done every two years.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Guidelines on Medical Examination for Seafarers (February 2020)
A seafarer's record book (discharge book) requires the applicant to be at least 18 and hold at least a basic education certificate (JSS/JHS).
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Seafarers examination and certification (procedures)
The discharge book also requires the four basic safety training certificates: fire fighting, personal safety and social responsibilities, first aid and personal survival.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Seafarers examination and certification (procedures)

Beware of scams

Producing false documents at an oral examination is reported to the police for prosecution.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Seafarers examinations (eligibility, regulations, validity of passes)
The GMA answers requests to verify certificates of competency it has issued.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Seafarers examination and certification (procedures)
New certificates of competency and discharge books carry security features against forgery.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority: Seafarers examination and certification (procedures)
Under the MLC 2006, recruitment and placement fees must not be charged to the seafarer.
Source: ILO, Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (as amended)

Krew Guru numbers

85% of open vacancies on Krew Guru accept citizens of Ghana.

Seafarer profiles from Ghana on Krew Guru: 600+.

Checked: 26 Oct 2026. Rules change, so always check with the maritime authority: Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA)