When we think about going abroad, the first thing that comes to mind is having a passport and visa. Without these documents, traveling internationally seems impossible. But did you know a special document allows certain professionals to travel abroad without needing a visa or even a passport for official duties? This document is called the Seaman Book, the CDC – Continuous Discharge Certificate.
What Is a Seaman Book or CDC?
The Seaman Book is an official identity document issued to professionals working in the Merchant Navy, cruise ships, or fishing vessels. It acts like a passport for these individuals when they travel for duty. This book is specifically designed to keep a record of seafarers’ personal details, work history, and voyage timelines. It includes:
- Full name and date of birth
- Nationality and photograph
- Name of shipping company
- Ship name and deployment duration
- Educational qualifications and rank
This document works as a professional identity proof and is mandatory for anyone who wants to work on ships internationally.
Who Needs a Seaman Book?
The Seaman Book is required for:
- People working in the Merchant Navy
- Cruise line staff
- Fishermen working on deep-sea vessels
- Other maritime workers involved in international shipping operations
It is not used for tourism or personal travel, but only when a person is traveling abroad for work onboard a ship.
Is It Valid at Airports?
Yes, the Seaman Book is valid at airports—but only under certain conditions. When a seafarer is traveling for official duty, they can show the Seaman Book and CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) at immigration checkpoints instead of a regular passport and visa. This is allowed because:
- They are on official assignments
- Their stay in foreign countries is limited and usually on the ship
- They transit through multiple countries during voyages
However, the person must carry the original Seaman Book and CDC to show at the airport. Immigration officers verify the documents before allowing boarding.
Do Seaman Book Holders Need a Visa?
For official travel, seafarers often do not need a visa. Their entry into foreign ports is covered under transit agreements between countries and shipping companies. The Seaman Book serves as a transit visa substitute during such journeys.
But if the person is traveling for personal reasons—such as a vacation or family trip—then a regular passport and visa are mandatory. The Seaman Book cannot be used in such cases.
Final Word on Seaman Book Usage
The Seaman Book is a special document that helps maritime professionals travel internationally for work without the usual travel documents. While it doesn’t replace a passport in all situations, it’s a powerful document that acts as a gateway for professional travel across the world for seafarers.
