Bermuda does not issue certificates of competency, however the STCW Convention is extended to Bermuda and Bermuda is included on the “White List”.

Officers in Bermuda ships who hold certificates of competency issued by a country outside the UK and on the list of accepted countries in Bermuda Shipping Notice 2010-008 must have a Bermuda Endorsement issued in accordance with the Convention.   The Bermuda endorsement should be carried on board with the officer’s original certificate of competency.

Bermuda recognizes a wide range of certificate of competency issuing countries and the full list is set out in the Shipping Notice.

The process of obtaining an endorsement is simple and set out fully in Shipping Notice 2010-008. It can be completed electronically, but the application must be made by the ship’s manager or owner.

In outline the process is:

• The application form for a Bermuda endorsement is available from the downloads section of this website in Survey and Seafarer Forms
• Attach clear scans of the seafarer’s  current certificate of competency, (in particular the STCW Endorsement page), any specialized endorsements (oil tankers, etc.) that are to be allowed for,  Attach a copy of the seafarer’s picture as a .jpeg file and arrange for the seafarer to place his signature in the space provided.  Ensure that the certificate of competency includes the photograph page and the seafarer’s date of birth.
• Submit the complete application package to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by email.
• On receipt the application will be checked and the receipt page of the application will be signed and stamped by the Administration.  This serves as the evidence of application required by the Convention and is valid for 3 months while the final endorsement is prepared and couriered to the manager.