Atomiq Group supports UK seafarers living in the United Kingdom with obtaining an international seaman book (CDC) without the need to visit overseas embassies or flag offices. If you plan to work on foreign-flag vessels or internationally trading ships, our end-to-end service makes the application smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
Whether you sail on merchant vessels, offshore units, cruise ships, superyachts, or oil & gas projects, we prepare and process your documents with recognized flag administrations such as Panama, Bahamas, Honduras, and St. Kitts & Nevis, ensuring a professional and efficient application experience.
Why UK Seafarers Need an International Seaman Book
Many UK-based mariners work on non-UK flag vessels, where a flag-state seaman book (CDC or SIRB) is required alongside UK CoC and STCW certificates. An international seaman book is essential for proving your rank, sea service, and onboard experience.
A valid seaman book helps UK seafarers to:
- Join foreign-flag vessels operating worldwide
- Maintain a continuous sea-service record for promotions and license upgrades
- Meet port-state control, audit, and employer compliance requirements
- Support visa applications and joining formalities
Who This Seaman Book Service Is For in the UK
This service is designed for:
- UK citizens and UK residents joining foreign-flag merchant, offshore, cruise, or yacht vessels
- Cadets, ratings, officers, and senior crew seeking internationally accepted documentation
- Offshore oil & gas personnel travelling from UK airports to international rigs and vessels
- Foreign seafarers living or studying in the UK applying using a UK address
Each application is tailored based on your rank, vessel type, and employer or flag preference.
Documents Required for UK Seafarer Applications
Document requirements vary by flag, but UK-based applicants typically need:
- Valid passport copy and recent passport-size photograph
- Existing CDC or national seafarer ID (if available)
- STCW Basic Safety Training and relevant endorsements
- Medical fitness certificate compliant with STCW and flag-state rules
- Sea-service letters or discharge records (for experienced crew)
All documents are carefully reviewed to meet current flag-state regulations, reducing the risk of delays or rejection.
Seaman Book for UK Seafarers—Simple Step-by-Step Process
- Select the right flag
Choose Panama, Palau, Belize, Liberia, or another suitable registry based on vessel and employer requirements. - Prepare your documents
Submit passport, photos, STCW certificates, medical reports, and sea-service records. - Verification & submission
Documents are checked for accuracy and submitted to the relevant flag authority. - Receive your seaman book in the UK
Once approved, your seaman book is issued and delivered directly to your UK address.
Benefits for UK-Based Seafarers
- Apply from anywhere in the UK without embassy visits
- Expert guidance on the best flag for your rank and career path
- Reduced rejection risk through professional document screening
- A globally recognized sea-service record for future contracts and promotions
How Atomiq Group Helps UK Seafarers
Atomiq Group is a trusted maritime documentation specialist supporting UK seafarers with international seaman book (CDC) applications from start to finish. Our experienced team understands flag-state regulations, STCW compliance, and employer requirements. We assist in choosing the most suitable flag, carefully verify your documents, manage submissions with approved registries, and arrange secure delivery to your UK address. By handling the entire process, Atomiq Group minimizes delays, avoids rejections, and ensures your seaman book is globally accepted and job-ready—so you can focus on joining your vessel with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for a foreign-flag seaman book while living in the UK?
Yes. Many UK seafarers apply for seaman books from Panama, Palau, Belize, and Liberia using their UK address, provided all documents meet flag-state requirements.
2. Do I need STCW certificates even if I have sea experience?
Yes. Valid STCW certification is mandatory for most flags. Expired certificates may require refresher training.
3. How long does it take to receive a seaman book in the UK?
Processing time depends on the flag administration and document readiness. Well-prepared applications are usually processed efficiently.
4. Can I use one seaman book for different companies and countries?
Yes. An internationally recognized seaman book can be used across multiple employers and routes, subject to vessel and visa requirements.
5. Does a seaman book replace a visa?
No. A seaman book does not replace immigration or crew visas such as C1/D or Schengen visas, which may still be required depending on your joining port.
