How to become a seafarer in Ukraine
Facts from official sources only, each with a link to the source. Choose the path that fits you.
Choose your path
What both paths have in common
- Only people found medically fit may work on a ship; fitness is certified under rules of the Ministry of Health.
- Officer posts require the corresponding rank and mandatory training under the STCW Convention.
- A rank is confirmed by a diploma (certificate of competency) issued after passing the State Qualification Commission.
- Mandatory training is confirmed by a specialist certificate (svidotstvo fakhivtsia) after an approved training programme.
- All seafarers must complete safety familiarization and basic training under STCW VI/1.
- Under the MLC 2006, no person under 16 may work on board a ship.
- The seafarer's identity document (posvidchennia osoby moriaka) is applied for in person with the original documents.
Beware of scams
- Mandatory training counts only under programmes approved by the state; check the training centre in the official list.
- Under the MLC 2006, recruitment fees must not be charged to seafarers.
- Private recruitment and placement services for seafarers must operate under a licensing or certification system.
Krew Guru numbers
85% of open vacancies on Krew Guru accept citizens of Ukraine.
Seafarer profiles from Ukraine on Krew Guru: 18,000+.
Checked: 26 Oct 2026. Rules change, so always check with the maritime authority: State Service of Maritime and Inland Water Transport and Shipping of Ukraine (Shipping Administration)