Text consolidated by Valsts valodas centrs (State Language Centre) with amending regulations of: 13 November 2007 [shall come into force on 22 November 2007]; 10 June 2008 [shall come into force on 14 June 2008]; 15 September 2009 [shall come into force on 19 September 2009;] 16 August 2011 [shall come into force on 19 August 2011]; 23 April 2013 [shall come into force on 1 May 2013]; 19 January 2016 [shall come into force on 10 February 2016]; 8 August 2017 [shall come into force on 11 August 2017]; 21 November 2018 [shall come into force on 24 November 2018]; 22 June 2021 [shall come into force on 30 June 2021]. If a whole or part of a paragraph has been amended, the date of the amending regulation appears in square brackets at the end of the paragraph. If a whole paragraph or sub-paragraph has been deleted, the date of the deletion appears in square brackets beside the deleted paragraph or sub-paragraph.

Republic of Latvia Cabinet Regulation No. 895 Adopted 22 November 2005

Regulations Regarding Certification of Seafarers

Issued pursuant to
Section 26, Paragraph two of the Maritime
Administration and Marine Safety Law

Part A. General Provisions

1. Definitions and Scope of Application

1. The Regulation prescribes the procedures and criteria according to which the Registry of Seamen of valsts sabiedrība ar ierobežotu atbildību "Latvijas Jūras administrācija" [State limited liability company Maritime Administration of Latvia] (hereinafter - the Latvian Registry of Seamen) shall certify seafarers.

[22 June 2021]

2. The following terms are used in this Regulation:

2.1. ARPA - automatic radar plotting aid;

2.1.¹ functions - a group of tasks, duties and responsibilities, as specified in the Code of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (as amended) (hereinafter - the STCW Convention), necessary for the provision of ship operation, safety of life at sea and protection of the marine environment (hereinafter - the duties);

2.2. GT - tonnage unit of a ship "gross tonnage" indicated in the tonnage certificate of the ship;

2.2.¹ documentary evidence - documentation, other than a certificate of competency or certificate of proficiency, or document certifying proficiency used to establish that the relevant requirements in the STCW Convention have been met;

2.2.² ECDIS - Electronic Chart Display and Information System;

2.2.³ propulsion power - the total maximum continuous rated output power in kilowatts of all of a ship's main propulsion machinery which appears on the ship's certificate of registry or other official document;

2.3. GMDSS - Global Maritime Distress and Safety System;

2.4. inland waters - waters of the Republic of Latvia from the coast line to the land side (rivers, lakes) and port areas;

2.5. rating - a member of the ship's crew other than the master or an officer on a ship;

2.6. limited fishing area - the Baltic Sea, including gulfs and straits up to the meridian of Cape Skagen;

2.6.¹ IGF Code - the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels;

2.6.² Polar Code - the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters;

2.6.³ polar waters - Arctic waters and/or the Antarctic area as defined in Regulation XIV/1.2-XIV/1.4 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, (hereinafter - the SOLAS Convention);

2.7. seagoing service - such period of time of work or traineeship on a seagoing ship, which is not a standing ship, which conforms to the qualification of the candidate in accordance with this Regulation (in Part D of this Regulation - also on a fishing vessel, in Part E of this Regulation - also on an inland water vessel and fishing vessel);

2.8. seagoing ship - a ship other than those which navigate exclusively in inland waters or in waters within, or closely adjacent to, sheltered waters or areas where port regulations apply, and which is neither fishing vessel nor warship, nor wooden ship of primitive build, nor recreational ship not involved in commercial activity;

2.9. certificate of competency - a certificate issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen certifying the conformity of professional qualification of a seafarer with the requirements of the STCW Convention or International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel, 1995 (hereinafter - the STCW-F Convention) and the requirements of the national regulatory enactments in the field of certification of seafarers;

2.10. endorsement of the certificate of competency - a document issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen to a master, officer or radio operator, certifying the conformity of the seafarer's professional qualification with the requirements of Chapters II, III, IV, VII or Regulation V/1-1 or V/1-2 of the STCW Convention, or a document issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen to fishing vessel personnel, certifying the conformity of the professional qualification with the requirements of the STCW-F Convention (hereinafter - the endorsement). The term of validity, the capacity, and the relevant limitations shall be indicated in the endorsement;

2.10.¹ qualification certificate - a document issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen certifying the conformity of the professional qualification - a certificate of competency, endorsement or a certificate of proficiency, but in Chapters 16 and 23 of this Regulation - also a certificate of competency, endorsement or a certificate of proficiency issued by the competent authority of a foreign country;

2.10.² ship security officer - the person on board a ship designated by the company and subordinated to the master, who in co-operation with the company security officer and port facility security officer, is responsible for the security of the ship and implementation and maintenance of the ship security plan;

2.11. unlimited fishing area - a fishing area without limitations;

2.12. passenger ship - a seagoing ship which carries more than 12 passengers for commercial purposes, as defined in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended;

2.13. self-propelled ship - a ship moving independently;

2.14. near-coastal voyages area - the Baltic Sea, including its gulfs and straits, up to the meridian of Cape Skagen;

2.14.¹ document certifying proficiency - a document issued by a maritime educational institution or training centre, stating that the requirements of Chapter VI of the STCW Convention and national laws and regulations in relation to training, competencies or seagoing service of seafarers have been met;

2.14.² certificate of proficiency - a document issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen, stating that the requirements of Regulations II/4, II/5, III/4, III/5, III/7, V/1-1, V/1-2, V/3, and V/4 of the STCW Convention and national laws and regulations in the field of certification of seafarers have been met;

2.15. officer in charge of an engineering watch - an officer on the ship authorised by the chief engineer officer, ensuring engine-room watch of the ship during specific duty hours or carrying out the duties of the duty engineer on a ship with engine-rooms to be periodically serviced;

2.16. skipper - a person having command of a fishing boat or vessel and responsible for maritime safety;

2.17. third country - any country which is not a European Union Member State, but which has acceded to the STCW Convention;

2.18. fishing vessel - a vessel used for industrial fishing at sea, with a deck, fixed engine and waterproof bulkheads, length of which is 12 metres or more;

2.19. fishing vessel personnel - master, skipper, officers (mates, engineers and radio specialists) and rating (skilled fishers, seamen, motormen and fishers);

2.20. fishing boat - a vessel without deck to be used for industrial fishing at sea, as well as a fishing vessel of less than 12 metres in length.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 8 August 2017; 21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

3. This Regulation shall apply to all seafarers wishing to be certified in the Republic of Latvia.

4. Upon certifying seafarers, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall organise an assessment of competency of seafarers, granting of a specific qualification or revalidation thereof and issue a certificate of competency, an endorsement of the certificate of competency, a certificate of proficiency or the national certificate of competency, as well as register such certificates and the documents related to the issuance thereof.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

5. [23 April 2013]

6. Certification of seafarers shall be a paid service. The tariffs for certification of seafarers shall be determined in accordance with Section 6, Paragraph two of the Maritime Administration and Maritime Safety Law.

7. The assessment of the competency of seafarers referred to in Parts B, C and D of this Regulation for granting a corresponding qualification or revalidation of qualification shall be performed by an assessment commission established in accordance with the requirements of Regulation A-I/6, paragraph 6 of the STCW Code (hereinafter - the assessment commission). The Minister for Transport shall approve a list of persons who conform to the requirements of Regulation A-I/6, paragraph 6 of the STCW Code and may participate in the assessment of competency and approval of qualification. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall establish an assessment commission on the basis of the list of persons approved by the Minister for Transport.

8. The competency of seafarers referred to in Part E of this Regulation for granting a corresponding qualification or revalidation of qualification shall be assessed by a commission approved by the Minister for Transport. The composition of the commission shall include representatives from Rīga, Venstpils and Liepāja harbour master services (hereinafter - the port assessment commission). If it is not possible to perform the assessment of competency at the port assessment commission, it shall be performed by the assessment commission in the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[8 August 2017]

2. Database and Quality Standard System

[23 April 2013]

9. In accordance with the requirements of Regulation I/2, paragraph 14 of the STCW Convention and Regulation A-I/2, paragraph 9 of the STCW Code, Regulation I/6, paragraph 2 of the STCW-F Convention, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall process the data of seafarers to be certified and maintain the electronic Latvian Seafarer Certification Database (hereinafter - the database) and archives.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

10. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall keep the following documents in its archive:

10.1. an application for the receipt of a qualification certificate;

10.2. the assessment protocol;

10.3. a copy of a document certifying education;

10.4. a copy of a document certifying training (if the document is not registered in the database);

10.5. a copy of a document certifying seagoing service (if seagoing service is not registered in the database);

10.6. a copy of the issued qualification certificate;

10.7. a printout of the seafarer's card from the database;

10.8. a copy of the opinion regarding medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship (if the document is not registered in the database).

[19 January 2016; 8 August 2017]

10.¹ The documents referred to in Paragraph 10 of this Regulation shall be stored according to the nomenclature of the files of the Latvian Registry of Seamen which has been coordinated in accordance with the laws and regulations in the field of the management of documents and archives.

[22 June 2021]

11. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall examine the authenticity and validity of the documents of a seafarer, using the database, and also requesting information from the issuing authorities of documents and competent authorities of other countries. In compliance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 15 of the STCW Convention and Regulation I/6, paragraph 2 of the STCW-F Convention, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall, upon a request, inform the competent authorities and merchants of the Republic of Latvia and foreign countries, which provide recruitment and placement services in manning the ship's crew, regarding the authenticity of the qualification certificate of the seafarer.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

12. In compliance with Regulation I/8 of the STCW Convention an internal quality standard system shall be introduced, maintained and independently supervised in the Latvian Registry of Seamen, according to which assessment of the competency of seafarers and certification thereof shall take place.

[23 April 2013]

3. General Requirements for a Seafarer

[19 January 2016]

13. The following age restriction shall apply to an candidate for the qualification certificate:

13.1. the candidate for the qualification certificate of a master of the ship has attained 20 years of age;

13.2. the candidate for the qualification certificate of a ship's officer or radio operator or the candidate for the qualification certificate of an able seafarer deck, able seafarer engine, electro-technical rating or ship's cook has attained 18 years of age;

13.3. the candidate for the qualification certificate of a rating (except for the qualifications referred to in Sub-paragraph 13.2 of this Regulation) has attained 16 years of age.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

14. The candidate for the document certifying proficiency of survival craft and rescue boats or fast rescue boats shall have attained 18 years of age.

[23 April 2013]

15. The conformity of the medical fitness of the candidate for the qualification certificate with the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding the conformity of the medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship shall be attested by the opinion of the medical practitioner of seafarers submitted by the medical practitioner of seafarers recognised by a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area in accordance with the requirements of Regulation I/9 of the STCW Convention and section A-I/9 of the STCW Code. If a seafarer or a fisherman is not involved in the international voyages and the requirements of the STCW Convention do not apply to him or her, the conformity of his or her state of health shall be attested by a document regarding the medical fitness for work on a ship issued by a certified medical practitioner in occupational health and occupation diseases.

[8 August 2017]

15.¹ If the seafarer's given name or surname has changed, the seafarer shall submit an application to the Latvian Registry of Seamen in accordance with the requirements of this Regulation and the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a new qualification certificate to the seafarer with a new registration number, retaining the term of validity of the previous qualification certificate.

[21 November 2018]

15.² The seafarer shall collect the qualification certificate within one year from the date of issue thereof. After the end of the abovementioned period, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall destroy the non-issued qualification certificate. In order to receive the qualification certificate and complete the assessment of competency, the seafarer, in accordance with the requirements laid down in this Regulation, shall submit a new application and the necessary documents.

[19 January 2016; 8 August 2017]

15.³ If the general seafarer certification procedure is not applicable (for example, seagoing service of the seafarer is different from the requirements specified in this Regulation), the circumstances of the case shall be evaluated and a decision on the conformity of the candidate with the qualification requirements shall be taken by the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[8 August 2017]

15.⁴ In order to receive the qualification certificate for the first time or to revalidate it, a candidate shall submit or present to the Latvian Registry of Seamen the documents specified in this Regulation; the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall prepare the relevant application, and the candidate shall confirm the accuracy of the information indicated therein with his or her signature. The aforementioned shall not apply to the submission of the documents indicated in Paragraph 114 of this Regulation.

[21 November 2018]

15.⁵ In order to acquire the digital face image of the seafarer to be included in the qualification certificate, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall make a photograph of the seafarer or, in exceptional cases that have occurred due to technical reasons, request the seafarer to submit a photograph which corresponds to the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding personal identification documents.

[21 November 2018]

15.⁶ The given name and surname of the seafarer shall be indicated in the qualification certificate according to the personal name indicated in the personal identification document issued in the Republic of Latvia. If the seafarer does not have a personal identification document issued in the Republic of Latvia, the given name and surname of the seafarer shall be indicated in the qualification document according to the personal name indicated in the personal identification document issued by the foreign competent authorities, transliterating it in Latin scrip in accordance with the transliteration table specified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

[21 November 2018]

Part B. Certification of Radio Personnel

4. General Provisions

16. The personnel responsible for radio communication or fulfilling radio watchkeeping duties on ships subject to the requirements laid down in Chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention shall be granted the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 20.1, 20.2, 20.3, and 20.4 of this Regulation, and the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of competency (Annex 1) and an endorsement (Annex 2). The qualification certificate shall certify the conformity with the requirements of Chapter IV of the STCW Code and the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union, which are annex to the International Telecommunication Convention, 1998 (hereinafter - the Radio Regulations).

[19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

17. The requirements of Paragraph 16 of this Regulation for the personnel responsible for radio communication on ships not subject to the requirements of Chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention, but equipped with radio installations conforming to the requirements for GMDSS operation, may be reduced and a certificate of competency (Annex 3) may be issued for the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 20.5 and 20.6 of this Regulation, certifying the conformity with the relevant requirements of Radio Regulations.

18. The recognition of a certificate of competency of the radio personnel issued in a foreign country shall be carried out in accordance with Chapter 16 of this Regulation, issuing the endorsement indicated in Paragraph 111 of this Regulation.

19. If the dispensation referred to in Paragraph 38 of this Regulation is issued to the radio personnel, in addition the requirements of Radio Regulations shall be conformed to.

19.¹ The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall publish CEPT/ERC Recommendation 31-04 (1994) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, and Recommendation ECC/REC/(10)03 (2010) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, on the website of the State limited liability company Maritime Administration of Latvia (www.lja.lv).

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

5. Qualification and Requirements for Obtaining Thereof

20. The following qualification shall be granted to the radio personnel:

20.1. GMDSS First-class Radio-electronics Officer - shall conform to the requirements of Regulation IV/2 of the STCW Convention and, according to that specified in endorsement, is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS operator on ships in sea areas A1, A2, A3 and A4 in conformity with Radio Regulations;

20.2. GMDSS Second-class Radio-electronics Officer - shall conform to the requirements of Regulation IV/2 of the STCW Convention and, according to that specified in endorsement, is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS operator on ships in sea areas A1, A2, A3 and A4 in conformity with Radio Regulations;

20.3. GMDSS General Operator - shall conform to the requirements of Regulation IV/2 of the STCW Convention and, according to that specified in endorsement, is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS operator on ships in sea areas A1, A2, A3 and A4 in conformity with Radio Regulations;

20.4. GMDSS Restricted Operator - shall conform to the requirements of Regulation IV/2 of the STCW Convention and, according to that specified in endorsement, is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS operator on ships in sea area A1 in conformity with Radio Regulations;

20.5. Long Range Radio Operator - shall conform to the requirements of Radio Regulations and Recommendation ECC/REC/(10)03 (2010) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, and is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS radio communications specialist on ships not subject to Chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention, but equipped with radio installations conforming to the requirements for GMDSS operation, in sea areas A1, A2 and A3 in conformity with Radio Regulations;

20.6. Short Range Radio Operator - shall conform to the requirements of Radio Regulations and CEPT/ERC Recommendation 31-04 (1994) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, and is entitled to carry out the functions of a GMDSS radio communications specialist on ships not subject to Chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention, but equipped with radio installations conforming to the requirements for GMDSS operation, in sea area A1 in conformity with Radio Regulations.

[23 April 2013]

21. Requirements for a candidate for the qualification of a GMDSS First-class Radio-electronics Officer:

21.1. has completed approved vocational education programme and special GMDSS training programme meeting the requirements of sections A-IV/2 and B-IV/2 of the STCW Code;

21.2. seagoing service - at least six months of work experience in the capacity of a GMDSS Second-class Radio-electronics Officer on ships equipped with GMDSS radio installations;

21.3. competency meets the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.

22. Requirements for a candidate for the qualification of a GMDSS Second-class Radio-electronics Officer:

22.1. has completed approved vocational education programme and special GMDSS training programme meeting the requirements of sections A-IV/2 and B-IV/2 of the STCW Code;

22.2. seagoing service - at least six months of work experience in the capacity of a radio-electronics officer assistant or radio operator on ships equipped with GMDSS radio installations;

22.3. competence meets the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.

23. Requirements for a candidate for the qualification of a GMDSS General Operator:

23.1. has completed approved ship's navigator or radio operator vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, and special GMDSS training programme meeting the requirements of sections A-IV/2 and B-IV/2 of the STCW Code;

23.2. competency meets the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.

24. Requirements for a candidate for the qualification of a GMDSS Restricted Operator:

24.1. has completed approved ship's navigator or radio operator vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, and special GMDSS training programme meeting the requirements of sections A-IV/2 and B-IV/2 of the STCW Code;

24.2. competency meets the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.

25. In order to acquire the relevant qualification and receive a certificate of competency for work on ships not subject to Chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention, but equipped with radio installations conforming to the requirements for GMDSS operation, a candidate shall complete a corresponding training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and:

25.1. take an assessment of competency examination at a training centre with a certified training programme for radio operators, in conformity with the requirements of Radio Regulations and Recommendation ECC/REC/(10)03 (2010) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, in order to receive the qualification and the certificate of competency of a Long Range Radio Operator and work in conformity with the requirements of GMDSS operation in sea areas A1, A2, and A3;

25.2. take an assessment of competency at a training centre with a certified training programme for radio operators, in conformity with the requirements of Radio Regulations and CEPT/ERC Recommendation 31-04 (1994) of the European Electronic Communications Committee, as amended, in order to receive the qualification and the certificate of competency of a Short Range Radio Operator and work in conformity with the requirements of GMDSS operation in sea area A1.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013]

26. A person who has completed ship's navigator vocational education programme or courses certified by the Ministry of Transport according to the qualification may apply for the qualification of a Long Range Radio Operator referred to in Sub-paragraph 25.1 of this Regulation and qualification of a Short Range Radio Operator referred to in Sub-paragraph 25.2 of this Regulation.

[13 November 2007]

27. For the receipt of the certificate of competency confirming the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 20.1, 20.2, 20.3 and 20.4 of this Regulation and an endorsement, the candidate shall, once every five years, successfully complete GMDSS courses for operators certified by the Ministry of Transport and confirm the competency with the assessment commission of the Latvian Registry of Seamen or training centre, in compliance with the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

28. The candidate shall, once every five years, receive a certificate of competency confirming the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 20.5 and 20.6 of this Regulation, confirming the competency with the assessment commission of the Latvian Registry of Seamen. If the candidate has previously acquired the qualification referred to in Paragraph 20 of this Regulation, he or she is entitled to apply for the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 20.5 and 20.6 of this Regulation without the fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 25 of this Regulation, confirming the competency with the assessment commission of the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

6. Issuance of a Qualification Certificate

[19 January 2016]

29. In order to initially or revalidate the qualification certificate, the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation, the current certificate of competency, and the endorsement, if any, to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present a personal identification document and originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

29.1. a doctor's opinion on the medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

29.2. a document certifying vocational education;

29.3. a certificate of GMDSS courses.

[22 June 2021]

30. In order to issue a qualification certificate to a seafarer in accordance with the procedures laid down in this Part, Paragraphs 80, 100, and 101 of this Regulation shall be applied.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

31. A person is entitled to revalidate a qualification certificate in accordance with the procedures laid down in this Part if he or she has the certificate of the qualification of radiocommunications personnel issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[22 June 2021]

Part C. Certification of the Personnel of a Seagoing Ship

7. General Provisions

32. Certification of the personnel of a seagoing ship (hereinafter - the ship) in the Republic of Latvia shall take place in accordance with the STCW Convention and the requirements of this Regulation.

[15 September 2009]

33. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of competency (Annex 1) and an endorsement of the certificate of competency (Annex 2) to the master of a ship and officer whose qualification requirements are laid down in Chapter II, III, or VII of the STCW Convention. The certificate of competency shall be issued for five years from the date of the assessment of competency. Endorsement shall be issued for a time period up to five years, taking into account the term of validity of the certificate of proficiency and the certificate of proficiency in tankers necessary for the qualification.

[19 January 2016; 8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

34. Endorsement shall be issued in accordance with paragraph (2) of Article VI of the STCW Convention. Endorsement shall confirm the conformity of the professional competency of the holder of the certificate of competency with the requirements of the STCW Convention and give the right to fill in a capacity and work on ships of certain type.

35. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of proficiency (Annex 5) to a rating applying for the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraph 41.9, 41.10, 41.11, 55.9, 55.10, or 55.11 of this Regulation. The certificate of proficiency shall be issued for five years from the date of the assessment of competency.

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

36. The certificate of competency and the certificate of proficiency shall conform to the requirements of Regulation I/2, paragraph 3 of the STCW Convention and confirm the conformity of the holder thereof with the requirements for seagoing service, age, state of health and mandatory professional training and standards of competency according to the relevant provisions of the STCW Convention.

[23 April 2013]

37. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue the national certificate of competency (Annex 6) to an officer on the ship and a rating whose qualification requirements have not been specified in the STCW Convention. The national certificate of competency shall be issued for five years from the date of assessment of competency.

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

38. In emergency situations if, according to an opinion of the Maritime Administration of Latvia, it does not cause threat to human life and health, property or the environment, the Latvian Registry of Seamen may, upon receipt of an application of a merchant providing recruitment and placement services in manning the ship's crew or of the owner of a ship, allow the seafarer, for a time period up to six months, fill in such capacity on a ship flying the flag of Latvia, for holding of which the seafarer does not have a qualification certificate. The master and chief engineer officer may be issued such dispensation (Annex 7) only in case of force majeure for as short period of time as possible.

[23 April 2013]

39. The dispensation referred to in Paragraph 38 of this Regulation may be issued to a seafarer who according to this Regulation has been certified to fill the capacity immediately below. Where certification of the capacity below is not required, the dispensation may be issued to a seafarer who has proven the conformity of his qualification and experience for the capacity to be filled to the commission for the assessment of competency. The owner of a ship shall ensure that the seafarer in question is replaced by the holder of an appropriate certificate as soon as possible.

40. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall inform the Ministry of Transport regarding certification issues of the personnel of a ship. The Ministry of Transport shall provide information to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) according to the requirements of Article IV and Regulations I/3, I/7, I/8, I/10 and I/13 of the STCW Convention.

40.¹ Each year the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall provide the information specified in paragraph 9 of section A-I/2 of the STCW Code to the European Commission on the qualification certificates registered in the database until 31 December of the previous year which have been issued in accordance with the requirements of Chapters II, III, and VII of the STCW Convention and on the endorsement of recognition of the qualification certificates of a foreign country which have been issued in accordance with the requirements of Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention. In order to ensure personal data protection, the abovementioned information shall be anonymised and sent electronically.

[22 June 2021]

8. Qualification of the Master of a Ship, Deck Officer and Deck Rating Personnel and Minimum Requirements for a Candidate

41. The following professional qualification shall be granted to the master of a ship, deck officer, and rating:

41.1. master on ships of 3000 GT or more (deep sea captain) - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or any mate on seagoing ships of any gross tonnage;

41.2. master on ships of less than 3000 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or chief mate on seagoing ships of less than 3000 gross tonnage or the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on seagoing ships of any gross tonnage;

41.2.¹ master on ships of less than 3000 GT in near-coastal voyages - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or mate on ships of less than 3000 GT in near-coastal voyages or to hold the capacity of a master or mate on ships of less than 500 GT without any restrictions on navigation areas;

41.3. master on ships of less than 500 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or mate on ships of less than 500 GT in near-coastal voyages;

41.4. master on ships of less than 200 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or mate on ships of less than 200 GT in near-coastal voyages;

41.4.¹ boatmaster on ships of less than 50 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or mate on ships of less than 50 GT in near-coastal voyages;

41.5. chief mate on ships of 3000 GT or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of any mate on seagoing ships of any gross tonnage;

41.6. chief mate on ships of less than 3000 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of a chief mate on seagoing ships of less than 3000 GT or the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on seagoing ships of any gross tonnage;

41.7. officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on seagoing ships of any gross tonnage. The gross tonnage of a ship may be limited in conformity with the completed vocational education programme;

41.8. officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT - is entitled to hold the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT in near-coastal voyages;

41.9. rating forming part of a navigational watch - is entitled to hold the capacity of a seaman with the right of navigational watch;

41.10 able seafarer deck - is entitled to hold the capacity of an able seafarer deck or rating forming part of a navigational watch with the right of navigational watch;

41.11. boatswain - is entitled to hold the capacity of an able seafarer deck, rating forming part of a navigational watch or boatswain with the right of navigational watch;

41.12. ship's cook - is entitled to hold the capacity of a cook or steward on ships;

41.13. steward - is entitled to hold the capacity of a steward on ships.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

42. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on ships of 3000 GT or more:

42.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

42.2. has obtained qualification - chief mate on ships of 3000 GT or more;

42.3. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

42.4. seagoing service - at least 36 months in the capacity of a mate from which 12 months in the capacity of a chief mate on ships of 3000 GT or more, not engaged on near-coastal voyages;

42.5. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

43. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on ships of less than 3000 GT:

43.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 and alleviated requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

43.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more;

43.3. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

43.4. seagoing service (on ships of 500 GT or more) - 36 months in the capacity of a mate or 24 months in the capacity of a mate from which 12 months in the capacity of a chief mate;

43.5. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters on ships of 500 to 3000 GT.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

43.¹ Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on ships of less than 3000 GT in near-coastal voyages:

43.¹ 1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code and alleviated requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code;

43.¹ 2. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

43.¹ 3. seagoing service - 36 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch. Seagoing service shall be reduced to 24 months if there is work experience of at least 12 months in the capacity of a master on ships of less than 500 GT;

43.¹ 4. competency conforms to the competency requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters on ships of up to 3000 GT.

[8 August 2017]

44. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on ships of less than 500 GT:

44.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code;

44.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT;

44.3. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

44.4. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on a ship of any gross tonnage;

44.5. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code.

45. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on ships of less than 200 GT:

45.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code;

45.2. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

45.3. seagoing service - 12 months at sea on ships in the composition of the deck department from which at least six months carrying out the bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of the master or a mate;

45.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007]

45.¹ If the seafarer has a valid ship's navigator certificate issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen with a reference to section A-II/1 or A-II/2 of the STCW Code, he or she is entitled to receive a qualification certificate with the qualification referred to in Paragraph 45 of this Regulation. The term of validity of this qualification certificate shall not exceed the term of validity of the ship's navigator certificate with a reference to section A-II/1 or A-II/2 of the STCW Code.

[19 January 2016]

45.² The requirements, when applying for the qualification - boatmaster on ships of less than 50 GT:

45.² 1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the alleviated requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code;

45.² 2. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

45.² 3. seagoing service - three-month practical training on ships at sea under the supervision of the ship's navigator and a positive evaluation has been received from the ship's navigator;

45.² 4. competency conforms to the requirements of sections A-II/3, A-VI/1 and A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code.

[8 August 2017]

46. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief mate on ships of 3000 GT or more:

46.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

46.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more;

46.3. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

46.4. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more, from which at least six months on ships of 3000 GT or more or also 12 months with the qualification of a chief mate on ships of less than 3000 GT, in the capacity of a chief mate on ships of 500 GT or more;

46.5. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

47. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief mate on ships of less than 3000 GT:

47.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code and the alleviated requirements specified in section A-II/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

47.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more;

47.3. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

47.4. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch from which at least six months on ships of 500 GT or more;

47.5. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for chief mates on ships of 500 to 3000 GT.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

48. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more:

48.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code;

48.2. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

48.3. seagoing service - 12 months on ships of 500 GT or more at sea, carrying out the training programme and documenting it in a standard or equivalent training record book developed by the Latvian Registry of Seamen that has been issued by an educational institution (hereinafter - the training record book), or also three years in the composition of the deck department on ships of 500 GT or more at the sea. During training or work duties of navigational watch under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer in charge of a navigational watch have been carried out for at least six months;

48.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code.

[16 August 2011; 19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

49. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT:

49.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code;

49.2. has obtained the qualification of a GMDSS operator;

49.3. seagoing service - six months on ships at sea, carrying out the training programme and documenting it in the training record book, or three years in the composition of the deck department, carrying out the duties of a navigational watch. During training duties of navigational watch under the supervision of the master or an officer in charge of a navigational watch have been carried out for at least two months;

49.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code.

[16 August 2011; 22 June 2021]

50. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a rating forming part of a navigational watch:

50.1. has completed the accredited programme for seamen certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of sections A-II/4, A-II/5 and B-II/4 of the STCW Code, or has completed two-year studies in the shipʼs navigator programme or at least 12-month practical training on a ship at sea and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship;

50.2. seagoing service - at least two months on ships of 500 GT or more, carrying out the duties of navigational watch under the supervision of a qualified officer in charge of a navigational watch or an able seafarer deck, documenting it in the training record book;

50.3. competency conforms to the requirements of sections A-II/4 and B-II/4 of the STCW Code.

[23 April 2013]

51. Requirements when applying for the qualification of an able seafarer deck:

51.1. has completed the accredited programme for seamen certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of sections A-II/4, A-II/5 and B-II/4 of the STCW Code, or has completed two-year studies in the shipʼs navigator programme;

51.2. has obtained the qualification of a rating forming part of a navigational watch;

51.3. seagoing service in the capacity of a rating forming part of a navigational watch - at least 12 months on ships of 500 GT or more, or at least 18 months on ships at sea from which at least 12 months on ships of 500 GT or more, if education does not conform to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 51.1 of this Regulation;

51.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/5 of the STCW Code.

[23 April 2013]

52. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a boatswain:

52.1. [23 April 2013];

52.2. has obtained the qualification of an able seafarer deck;

52.3. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an able seafarer deck on ships of 500 GT or more and a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and a recommendation for the receipt of the qualification certificate of a boatswain has been received;

52.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-II/5 of the STCW Code.

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

53. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a ship's cook:

53.1. education:

53.1.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme of a ship's cook;

53.1.2. has completed an accredited vocational education programme of a cook and a vocational education programme corresponding to the requirements of professional qualification of a ship's cook, carrying out the training programme and documenting it in the training record book;

53.2. seagoing service - four months on ships at sea in the capacity of a steward or trainee, and a positive evaluation from the master of the ship;

53.3. competency conforms to the requirements of the standard for the cook profession, the professional qualification of a ship's cook, and the requirements of section A-VI/1 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018 / Sub-paragraph 53.1.2 shall come into force on 1 July 2019. See Paragraph 240]

54. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a steward:

54.1. has completed basic education and a training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport regarding hygiene requirements on ships; or

54.2. has completed a vocational education programme conforming to the requirements of the professional qualification of a ship's cook or a part thereof which includes training on hygiene requirements for work on ships;

54.3. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-VI/1 of the STCW Code and sanitary norms.

[22 June 2021]

9. Qualification of and Minimum Requirements for the Ship's Engineer Officer and Rating Personnel

55. The following professional qualification shall be granted to an engineer officer and a rating:

55.1. chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold any capacity of engineer officer on ships without restrictions of main propulsion power;

55.2. chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of a chief engineer officer or second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power, or the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships without restrictions of main propulsion power;

55.3. second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of a second engineer officer or officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships without restrictions of main propulsion power;

55.4. second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power, or the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships without restrictions of main propulsion power;

55.5. officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships without restrictions of main propulsion power. The main propulsion power of a ship may be limited in accordance with the completed vocational education programme;

55.6. engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of an engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power;

55.7. refrigeration engineer on ships - is entitled to hold the capacity of a refrigeration engineer on ship;

55.8. electro-technical officer - is entitled to hold the capacity of an electro-technical officer;

55.9. rating forming part of an engine-room watch - is entitled to hold the capacity of a rating forming part of an engine-room watch;

55.10. able seafarer engine - is entitled to hold the capacity of an able seafarer engine or a rating forming part of an engine room watch;

55.11. electro-technical rating - is entitled to hold the capacity of an electro-technical rating;

55.12. pumpman - is entitled to work as a pumpman on tankers of specific type;

55.13. ship's technician - is entitled to hold the capacity of a ship's technician and to perform the duties of navigational and engineering watch on ships without restrictions;

55.14. turner, welder, fitter - is entitled to fill the relevant capacity on a ship without carrying out the watchkeeping duty.

[16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

56. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more:

56.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of Section A-III/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

56.2. has obtained qualification - second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more;

56.3. seagoing service - 36 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, from which not less than 12 months in the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more;

56.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/2 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

57. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power:

57.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of Section A-III/1 of the STCW Code and the alleviated requirements specified in Section A-III/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

57.2. has obtained qualification - second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

57.3. seagoing service - 24 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch, from which at least 12 months in the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

57.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/3 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

58. Requirements when applying for the qualification - second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more:

58.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of Section A-III/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

58.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more or second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

58.3. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more or also 12 months in the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, if the candidate has acquired qualification - second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

58.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/2 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

59. Requirements when applying for the qualification - second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power:

59.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme,certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of Section A-III/1 of the STCW Code and the alleviated requirements specified in Section A-III/2 of the STCW Code, and has completed the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport, if more than five years have passed since the completion of the vocational education programme;

59.2. has obtained qualification - officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

59.3. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

59.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/3 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

60. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more:

60.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code;

60.2. duration of traineeship:

60.2.1. at least 12-month complex training in approved mechanical and electrical workshops or an equivalent place of training or work which ensures acquisition of the practical skills compliant with the qualification to be granted and completion of the training programme determined in the education programme or part thereof (hereinafter - the workshops), and on ship at sea, which is a part of the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport. The training is documented in the training record book and shall include seagoing service - at least six months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW or more propulsion power, carrying out watchkeeping duties in engine-room under the supervision of an officer in charge of an engineering watch or a chief engineer officer;

60.2.2. at least 36-month practical experience in workshops and on ships at sea, including seagoing service - at least 30 months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

60.3. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code.

[16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

61. Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on the ship on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power:

61.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport, which includes training in workshops and meets the alleviated requirements of Section A-III/1 of the STCW Code;

61.2. seagoing service - six months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 200 kW propulsion power;

61.3. competency conforms to the facilitated requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code.

[19 January 2016]

62. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a refrigeration engineer on ships:

62.1. education:

62.1.1. has completed an accredited programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, of a refrigeration engineer on ships or an equivalent programme;

62.1.2. has completed an accredited vocational education programme of a refrigeration equipment systems technician and a vocational education programme corresponding to the requirements of professional qualification of a refrigeration engineer on ships;

62.2. seagoing service - at least four months on reefer ships or liquefied gas tankers, carrying out the traineeship programme under the supervision of a refrigeration engineer and documenting it in the training record book;

62.3. competency conforms to the specific nature of reefer ships and liquefied gas tankers, the requirements of the profession standard of a refrigeration equipment systems technician and the professional qualification of a refrigeration engineer on ships.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

63. Requirements when applying for the qualification of an electro-technical officer:

63.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or an equivalent programme, meeting the requirements of sections A-III/6 and B-III/6 of the STCW Code;

63.2. duration of traineeship:

63.2.1. at least 12-month complex training in workshops and on ships at sea which is a part of an accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport. The training is documented in the training record book and shall include seagoing service - at least six months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, carrying out watchkeeping duties in engine-room under the supervision of an officer in charge of an engineering watch or an electro-technical officer;

63.2.2. at least 36-month practical experience in workshops and on ships at sea, including seagoing service - at least 30 months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

63.3. competency conforms to the requirements of sections A-III/6 and B-III/6 of the STCW Code.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

64. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a rating forming part of an engine-room watch:

64.1. has completed the accredited programme for motorman on a ship certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of sections A-III/4, A-III/5 and B-III/4 of the STCW Code, or has completed two-year studies in the programme for engineer officers on ship, or at least 12-month practical training on a ship at sea and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and the chief engineer officer;

64.2. seagoing service - at least two months on a ship powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW propulsion power, carrying out watchkeeping duties in engine-room under the supervision of a qualified engineer officer and documenting it in the training record book;

64.3. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/4 of the STCW Code.

[16 August 2011; 23 April 2013]

65. Requirements when applying for the qualification of an able seafarer engine:

65.1. has completed the accredited programme for a motorman on a ship certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of sections A-III/4, A-III/5 and B-III/4 of the STCW Code, or has completed two-year studies in the programme for engineer officers on a ship, or 12-month practical training on a ship at sea and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and the chief engineer officer;

65.2. has obtained qualification - rating forming part of an engine-room watch;

65.3. seagoing service - at least six months in the composition of the engine department after acquisition of the qualification of a rating forming part of an engine-room watch on a ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

65.4. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/5 of the STCW Code.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

66. Requirements when applying for the qualification of an electro-technical rating:

66.1. education:

66.1.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme of an electro-technical rating, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or an equivalent programme; or

66.1.2. has completed an accredited vocational education programme of an electrical technician and a vocational education programme corresponding to the requirements of professional qualification of an electro-technical rating which conforms to the requirements of section A-III/7 of the STCW Code; or

66.1.3. has completed two-year studies in an accredited vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, which conforms to the requirements of sections A-III/6 and B-III/6 of the STCW Code;

66.1.4. has completed 12-month practical training in the composition of the engine department on a ship at sea and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and the chief engineer officer;

66.2. seagoing service:

66.2.1. at least three-month training at sea in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, carrying out the training programme and documenting it in the training record book;

66.2.2. at least six-month training at sea in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

66.3. competency conforms to the requirements of section A-III/7 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

67. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a pumpman:

67.1. has completed a training programme for a pumpman, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or practical training on a tanker, and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and a recommendation for the receipt of the qualification certificate of a pumpman;

67.2. has obtained qualification - able seafarer deck or able seafarer engine;

67.3. seagoing service - 12 months on a tanker in the capacity of an able seafarer deck or able seafarer engine;

67.4. competency conforms to the requirements specified for a pumpman for the particular type of tankers.

[22 June 2021]

68. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a ship's technician:

68.1. has completed the accredited programme for a shipʼs technician certified by the Ministry of Transport, incorporating traineeship in workshops and meeting the requirements of sections A-II/4, A-II/5, A-III/4, A-III/5, B-II/4 and B-III/4 of the STCW Code;

68.2. seagoing service - six months on ships of 500 GT or more and powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW propulsion power, for not less than two months carrying out the duties of navigational watch under the supervision of an officer in charge of a navigational watch and for not less than two months carrying out the duties of engineering watch under the supervision of an officer in charge of an engineering watch, documenting it in the training record book;

68.3. competency conforms to the requirements of sections A-II/4 and A-III/4 of the STCW Code.

[16 August 2011; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

69. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a turner or welder:

69.1. has completed a relevant accredited programme;

69.2. competency conforms to the qualification requirements.

[19 January 2016]

69.¹ The requirements, when applying for the qualification of a ship's fitter:

69.¹ 1. has completed an accredited welder vocational education programme or an equivalent programme, or has previously acquired a fitter's qualification certificate issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen;

69.¹ 2. has obtained the qualification of an able seafarer engine. This requirement shall not be applied if a fitter's qualification certificate issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen has been acquired previously;

69.¹ 3. seagoing service - 12 months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW, and has received a positive evaluation of the master of the ship and the chief engineer officer;

69.¹ 4. competency conforms to the qualification requirements of a ship's fitter.

[8 August 2017]

10. Certification of Seafarers for Near-coastal Voyages

70. Masters of ships flying the flag of Latvia and officers who work on ships in the near-coastal voyages area shall be certified in conformity with the requirements of this Regulation.

71. When, navigating in coastal waters of Latvia, masters and mates on ships of near-coastal voyages flying the flag of a foreign country shall be certified in conformity with the standards of competency considered as equivalent to the requirements of this Regulation.

11. Requirements for the Assessment of Education, Training and Competency of Seafarers

[13 November 2007]

72. A foreign maritime vocational education diploma shall be recognised (except for the case referred to in Sub-paragraphs 73.¹ 1 and 73.² 1 of this Regulation) as equivalent and corresponding for granting the relevant qualification, if it has been issued:

72.1. in a Member State of the European Union or European Economic Area. The diploma shall be recognised according to an accredited programme or qualification acquired as recorded in the document issued by an educational institution, if it is not in contradiction with the requirements of the STCW Convention;

72.2. in a third country, if it is a member state of the International Maritime Organisation, and:

72.2.1. the relevant programme has been accredited and recognised in the relevant state. The diploma shall be recognised if the programme has been completed in a higher education institution which prepares specialists for merchant fleet ships, corresponding to the sixth qualification level of the European Qualifications Network, and the requirements of Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention are met;

72.2.2. the relevant programme has been accredited and recognised in the relevant state. If the programme has been completed in other educational institutions (not in the ones referred to in Sub-paragraph 72.2.1 of this Regulation), the diploma shall be recognised after content assessment of the programme in the Latvian Registry of Seamen. If the content of the programme does not conform to the relevant programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport, the candidate shall complete equalization courses of programmes.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

73. If the speciality of ships' navigators, ships' engineers and electro-technical officers on ships has been acquired abroad in vocational secondary fisheries educational institutions or fisheries educational institutions of college type, programmes shall not be recognised as equivalent in order to apply for the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraphs 41.1, 41.2, 41.5, 41.6, 41.7, 55.1, 55.2, 55.3, 55.4, 55.5 and 55.8 of this Regulation corresponding to the STCW Convention.

[23 April 2013]

73.¹ Vocational in-service training programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport, in accordance with the requirements of section A-II/2 or A-III/2 of the STCW Code, shall be implemented by an educational institution which is specialised in implementation of the first or second level maritime higher education programmes. The requirements when applying for the completion of the programme:

73.¹ 1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport, in accordance with the requirements of section A-II/1 or A-III/1 of the STCW Code and has obtained the professional qualification of an officer in charge of a navigational watch or an officer in charge of an engineering watch without restrictions of tonnage or main propulsion power of a ship;

73.¹ 2. seagoing service - 18 months in the capacity of an officer forming part of a watch on merchant fleet ships.

[22 June 2021]

73.² Documentary evidence of a maritime educational institution or training centre which has been issued in accordance with Paragraph 82.¹, Sub-paragraphs 83.3, 83.¹ 3, and 83.² 3, Paragraphs 86.⁶ and 86.¹⁴ of this Regulation shall be valid for certification of the personnel of a ship in accordance with Part C of this Regulation, but shall not be valid for work on ships at sea.

[22 June 2021]

74. Documentary evidence or documents certifying proficiency shall be recognised for granting the qualification in accordance with the requirements of Chapters 8, 9, 17, 19, 20, 21, and 26 of this Regulation or revalidation of qualification if the following has been completed:

74.1. a training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport; or

74.2. a recognised full-time training programme which is certified by a document issued by an educational institution, training centre, or a competent maritime authority of another European Union Member State or a European Economic Area state.

[22 June 2021]

74.¹ Documentary evidence, a document certifying proficiency, or a qualification certificate shall be recognised for the admission of an candidate in a training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport according to the admission criteria.

[22 June 2021]

75. If documentary evidence or document certifying proficiency has been issued in a third country, which is a Member State of the International Maritime Organisation and conforms to the requirements of Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention, it shall be deemed valid for the issuance of a qualification certificate of the Republic of Latvia, if the content and implementation of the particular educational institution or training centre programme has been assessed by the Latvian Registry of Seamen and recognised as conforming to the requirements of the STCW Convention.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

75.¹ Paragraphs 74 and 75 of this Regulation shall not apply to the certificates of competency updating courses and competence improvement courses which are recognised for granting a qualification or its revalidation only after completion of a training programme approved by the Ministry of Transport.

[13 November 2007; 19 January 2016]

76. A seafarer shall complete the training course programme "Competence Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-I/11.2 of the STCW Code and receive a documentary evidence with a term of validity of five years.

[19 January 2016]

77. The maritime vocational education institutions (hereinafter - the educational institution) shall ensure practical training to students in workshops and, in co-operation with ship owners, shall ensure practical training on ships at sea (seagoing service). The duration of workshop practice in days shall be certified by a statement issued by the educational institution. The trainee shall be responsible for the documentation of the execution of the training programme in the training record book. Records in the training record book shall be made in the Latvian language or the English language. A graduate of an educational institution shall present a filled-in training record book to the assessment commission for granting of qualification.

[22 June 2021]

78. A person who after completion of the education programme has not received an appropriate qualification certificate within five or more years is entitled to apply for the appropriate qualification certificate only after the training programme has been repeatedly completed on a ship. Execution of the training programme shall be documented in the training record book.

[19 January 2016]

79. The assessment commission shall assess the competency of the candidate in accordance with the criteria and methodology specified in the standards of the STCW Code. For the receipt of the qualifications referred to in Sub-paragraphs 41.1, 41.5, 41.7, 55.1, 55.3 and 55.5 of this Regulation, the candidate shall take a computerised test conforming to the requirements of the STCW standards and shall confirm his competency to the assessment commission in the form of an interview. For the receipt of other qualifications, the candidate shall confirm his competency in the form of an interview. The questions of the test shall be developed and updated by the Latvian Registry of Seamen on the basis of the tables of the minimum standards of competency of Part A, Chapters II, III, IV, V and VI of the STCW Convention and the guidelines of the relevant chapters of Part B according to each qualification, and the themes shall be published on the Internet home page of the Maritime Administration of Latvia. The test shall be deemed as completed if the candidate has provided correct answers to at least 70 % of questions.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013]

79.¹ The candidate shall take an assessment of competency for the receipt of the requested qualification not more than three times within six months after the documents specified in this Regulation have been submitted to the Latvian Registry of Seamen. If the candidate does not pass the assessment of competency within this time period, the candidate shall, not sooner than after six months counting from the last assessment of competency, re-submit the documents to the Latvian Registry of Seamen in accordance with the requirements of this Regulation and take the assessment of competency. During this time the candidate may apply for a lower qualification. If the assessment commission determines an insufficient level of competency of the candidate, it is entitled to determine that the candidate repeatedly completes the relevant training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport or repeatedly takes the computerised test.

[21 November 2018]

80. The results of assessment of the competency of seafarers and the conformity of competency with the standards of this Regulation and the STCW Convention shall be compiled in an assessment protocol (Annex 8). The protocol shall be signed by members of the assessment commission. If it has been established in the assessment of competency that the candidate conforms to the requested qualification, the seafarer may receive the qualification certificate in the Latvian Registry of Seamen within a year after the date of signing the assessment protocol. If it has been established in the assessment of competency that the candidate does not conform to the requested qualification, the assessment commission shall indicate the themes in the assessment protocol in which a non-conformity of the candidate with the competency was established. Upon request of the seafarer the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a copy of the assessment protocol to him or her.

[15 September 2009; 23 April 2013]

81. Final examinations of maritime educational institutions may be joined with the assessment of competency only if the procedures for final examinations completely conform to the procedure (methodology) for the assessment of competency and the candidates have met all the requirements referred to in this Regulation for the relevant qualification. In such case the examination procedures, the content, and the composition of the assessment commission is coordinated with the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

12. Requirements for the Qualification of the Personnel of Ships of Special Type

12.1. Requirements for the Personnel of a Tanker

[23 April 2013]

82. The requirements for an officer and rating assigned specific duties and responsibilities related to cargo or cargo equipment on a tanker:

82.1. on oil tankers or chemical tankers:

82.1.1. seagoing service - at least three months during the last five years on oil tankers or chemical tankers, as well as training programme "The Oil, Chemical and Liquefied Gas Tankers Familiarization Course" (hereinafter - the Tanker Familiarization Course), certified by the Ministry of Transport, has been completed;

82.1.2. training programme "Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations" (hereinafter - the Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tankers) certified by the Ministry of Transport has been completed and competency meets the requirements of section A-V/1-1-1 of the STCW Code;

82.2. on gas tankers:

82.2.1. seagoing service - at least three months during the last five years on gas tankers, as well as the Tanker Familiarization Course has been completed;

82.2.2. training programme "Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations" (hereinafter - the Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tankers), certified by the Ministry of Transport, has been completed and competency meets the requirements of section A-V/1-2-1 of the STCW Code.

82.¹ After successful completion of the Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tankers or Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tankers the educational institution or training centre shall issue a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity to the seafarer in compliance with the type of the tanker, containing an entry regarding the conformity with the requirements of section A-V/1-1-1 or A-V/1-2-1 of the STCW Code.

[19 January 2016]

82.² After fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 82 of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a basic level certificate of proficiency in tankers (Annex 5) to a seafarer with the term of validity of five years from the date of issue of the documentary evidence of the completion of the relevant basic training course, indicating conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention. If a seafarer has been working on a tanker of the relevant type for at least three months within the past five years, the basic level certificate of proficiency in tankers shall be issued with the term of validity of five years from the date of its issue. In addition the master of the ship and an officer shall be issued the endorsement, indicating the conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention.

[22 June 2021]

83. The requirements for the master, chief mate, chief engineer officer, second engineer officer and crew member of the tanker who is directly responsible for cargo operations, supervision of cargo during carriage, and cleaning of cargo tanks or other cargo-related operations on oil tankers:

83.1. meets the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.1 of this Regulation;

83.2. seagoing service, meeting the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.1 of this Regulation - at least three months on an oil tanker or at least one month in training on an oil tanker in a supernumerary capacity during which there have been at least three cargo loading and unloading operations which have been documented in the training record book developed taking into account the requirements of section B-V/1 of the STCW Code;

83.3. has completed the training programme "Advanced Training for Oil Tanker Cargo Operations", certified by the Ministry of Transport, and competency conforms to the requirements of section A-V/1-1-2 of the STCW Code, confirmed by a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity issued by the educational institution or training centre.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

83.¹ The requirements for the master, chief mate, chief engineer officer, second engineer officer and crew member of the tanker, who is directly responsible for cargo operations, supervision of cargo during carriage and cleaning of cargo tanks or other cargo-related operations on chemical tankers:

83.¹ 1. meets the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.1 of this Regulation;

83.¹ 2. seagoing service, meeting the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.1 of this Regulation - at least three months on a chemical tanker or at least one month in training on a chemical tanker in a supernumerary capacity during which there have been at least three cargo loading and unloading operations which have been documented in the training record book developed taking into account the requirements of section B-V/1 of the STCW Code;

83.¹ 3 has completed the training programme "Advanced Training for Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations", certified by the Ministry of Transport, and competency conforms to the requirements of section A-V/1-1-3 of the STCW Code, confirmed by a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity issued by the educational institution or training centre.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

83.² The requirements for the master, chief mate, chief engineer officer, second engineer officer and crew member of the tanker, who is directly responsible for cargo operations, supervision of cargo during carriage and cleaning of cargo tanks or other cargo-related operations on liquefied gas tankers:

83.² 1. meets the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.2 of this Regulation;

83.² 2. seagoing service, meeting the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.2 of this Regulation - at least three months on a liquefied gas tanker or at least one month in training on a liquefied gas tanker in a supernumerary capacity during which there have been at least three cargo loading and unloading operations which have been documented in the training record book developed taking into account the requirements of section B-V/1 of the STCW Code;

83.² 3 has completed the training programme "Advanced Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations", certified by the Ministry of Transport, and competency conforms to the requirements of section A-V/1-2-2 of the STCW Code, confirmed by a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity issued by the educational institution or training centre.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

83.³ A seafarer who has completed the advanced training programme for tankers and has received a training certificate in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention which were in force until 31 December 2011 and whose seagoing service is at least three months within the past five years on the relevant type of tankers shall not be subject to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 83.3, 83.¹ 3 or 83.² 3 of this Regulation.

[8 August 2017]

84. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall, after fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 83, 83.¹, 83.², or 83.³ of this Regulation, issue an advanced level certificate of proficiency in tankers to a seafarer with the term of validity of five years from the date of issue of the documentary evidence of the completion of the relevant training course, indicating conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention. If a seafarer has been working on a tanker of the relevant type for at least three months within the past five years, the advanced level certificate of proficiency in tankers shall be issued with the term of validity of five years from the date of its issue. In addition the master of the ship and an officer shall be issued the endorsement, indicating the conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention.

[22 June 2021]

84.¹ Conditions for revalidation of a certificate of proficiency in tankers:

84.¹ 1 the current tanker qualification certificate has been issued at the Latvian Registry of Seamen in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention;

84.¹ 2. during the last five years the candidate has, for at least three months, worked on tankers of the relevant type at sea, performing the duties appropriate to the tanker qualification certificate held, or repeatedly completed training programme in accordance with the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 82.1.2, 82.2.2, 83.3, 83.¹ 3, or 83.² 3 of this Regulation.

[19 January 2016; 8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

84.² The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall, after fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 84.¹ of this Regulation, issue a certificate of proficiency in tankers to a seafarer with the term of validity of five years from the date of its issue, indicating conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention. In addition the master of the ship and an officer shall be issued the endorsement, indicating the conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention.

[22 June 2021]

12.2. Requirements for the Personnel of a Passenger Ship

[23 April 2013]

85. The personnel of a passenger ship has the duty to successfully complete the training programme "Training Course for Personnel of Passenger Ships", certified by the Ministry of Transport, or a part thereof according to the capacity, duties and responsibility:

85.1. the master, officer and such crew member of the passenger ship who has been appointed to help passengers in emergency situations shall complete a crowd management training programme in conformity with the requirements of section A-V/2, paragraph 3 of the STCW Code;

85.2. the personnel of the passenger ship, providing direct service to passengers in passenger spaces, shall have completed the safety training programme specified in section A-V/2, paragraph 2 of the STCW Code;

85.3. the master, chief mate, chief engineer officer, second engineer officer and crew member who is responsible for embarking and disembarking passengers from a ro-ro ship, loading, discharging or securing cargo, or closing hull openings on board ships shall have completed a passenger safety and cargo safety training programme in conformity with the requirements of section A-V/2, paragraph 5 of the STCW Code;

85.4. the master, chief mate, chief engineer officer, second engineer officer and crew member who is responsible designated on muster lists to assist passengers in emergency situations shall have completed a crisis management and human behaviour training programme in conformity with the requirements of section A-V/2, paragraph 4 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

85.¹ After completion of the training programme "Training Course for Personnel of Passenger Ships" or a part thereof, the educational institution or training centre shall issue documentary evidence to the seafarer regarding the parts of the programme completed. The term of validity of the abovementioned evidence shall be five years.

[22 June 2021]

86. A seafarer for whom the seagoing service during the last five years has been at least three months on passenger or ro-ro passenger ships shall complete the training programme "Training Course for Personnel of Passenger Ships - Refresher Programme", certified by the Ministry of Transport, or a part thereof in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 4 of Regulation V/2 of the STCW Convention and shall receive a new documentary evidence regarding the parts of the programme completed. The term of validity of the abovementioned evidence shall be five years.

[22 June 2021]

12.2.¹ Requirements for the Personnel on Ships Subject to the IGF Code

[8 August 2017]

86.¹ The requirements for a candidate for the IGF basic level certificate of proficiency:

86.¹ 1. completed the training programme "Basic Training for Service on Ships Subject to the IGF Code" certified by the Ministry of Transport (hereinafter - the IGF basic training) in accordance with the requirements laid down in section A-V/3, paragraph 1 of the STCW Code;

86.¹ 2. a certificate of proficiency in liquefied gas tankers issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

[8 August 2017]

86.² The IGF basic level certificate of proficiency shall be necessary to a seafarer whose work duties comprise safety measures related to the care and use of fuel or in emergency response to the fuel on board ships subject to the IGF Code.

[8 August 2017]

86.³ The requirements for a candidate for the IGF advanced level certificate of proficiency:

86.³ 1. IGF basic level certificate of proficiency;

86.³ 2. seagoing service in fulfilling the requirement referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.³ 1 of this Regulation - at least one month on ships subject to the requirements of the IGF Code during which there have been at least three bunkering operations. Two of three bunkering operations may be replaced by simulator-based training within the scope of the programme referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.³ 3 of this Regulation;

86.³ 3. completed the training programme "Advanced Training for Service on Ships Subject to the IGF Code" certified by the Ministry of Transport (hereinafter - the IGF advanced training) during the period of the past five years and competency conforms to the requirements laid down in section A-V/3, paragraph 2 of the STCW Code.

[8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

86.⁴ The IGF advanced level certificate of proficiency shall be necessary to a master of a ship, engineer officer and crew member with immediate responsibility for the care and use of fuels and operation of related fuel systems on ships subject to the IGF Code.

[8 August 2017]

86.⁵ The requirements for a candidate for the IGF advanced level certificate of proficiency who has acquired a certificate of proficiency of liquefied gas tankers issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen:

86.⁵ 1. [22 June 2021];

86.⁵ 2. has participated in at least three cargo loading operations on liquefied gas tankers or has fulfilled the conditions referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.³ 2 of this Regulation;

86.⁵ 3. seagoing service - at least three months during the past five years on one of the following types of ships:

86.⁵ 3.1. ships subject to the IGF Code;

86.⁵ 3.2. tankers carrying as cargo fuels covered by the IGF Code;

86.⁵ 3.3. ships using gases or low-flashpoint fuel as fuel.

[8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

86.⁶ After successful completion of the IGF basic training or the IGF advanced training, the education institution or training centre shall issue to a seafarer a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity containing an entry on compliance with the requirements referred to in section A-V/3, paragraph 1 or 2 of the STCW Code.

[8 August 2017]

86.⁷ After fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 86.¹, 86.³, 86.⁵, or 86.⁸ of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue to a seafarer a certificate of proficiency (Annex 5) (hereinafter - the IGF certificate of proficiency) with the term of validity of five years from the date of its issue, indicating the conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention. If the seafarer has not worked on the ship referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.⁵ 3.1, 86.⁵ 3.2, or 86.⁵ 3.3 of this Regulation for at least three months within the past five years, the IGF basic level certificate of proficiency shall be issued with the term of validity of five years from the date of completion of the IGF basic course.

[22 June 2021]

86.⁸ Conditions for the revalidation of the IGF certificate of proficiency:

86.⁸ 1. the current IGF certificate of proficiency has been issued at the Latvian Registry of Seamen in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention;

86.⁸ 2. during the past five years the seafarer has repeatedly completed the training programme in conformity with the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.¹ 1 or 86.³ 3 of this Regulation or seagoing service - at least three months during the past five years acquired on one of the following types of ships:

86.⁸ 2.1. ships subject to the IGF Code;

86.⁸ 2.2. tankers carrying as cargo fuels covered by the IGF Code;

86.⁸ 2.3. ships using gases or low-flashpoint fuel as fuel.

[8 August 2017]

86.⁹ In order to receive the IGF certificate of proficiency, the candidate shall submit documentary evidence regarding the fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 86.³, 86.⁵ and 86.⁸ of this Regulation.

[8 August 2017]

12.2.² Requirements for the Personnel on Ships in Polar Waters

[21 November 2018]

86.¹⁰ In order to receive a basic level certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters, a candidate shall complete the training programme "Basic Training for Ships Operating in Polar Waters" certified by the Ministry of Transport (hereinafter - the basic training) in accordance with the requirements referred to in section A-V/4, paragraph 1 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹¹ In order to work on ships operating in polar waters, the master of the ship, chief mate, and officer in charge of a navigational watch shall need to hold the basic level certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹² In order to receive an advanced level certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters, a candidate shall meet the following requirements:

86.¹² 1. the requirements referred to in Paragraph 86.¹⁰ of this Regulation;

86.¹² 2. seagoing service - at least two months in the capacity of the master of the ship or a deck officer on ships operating in polar waters or in equivalent conditions;

86.¹² 3. has completed the training programme "Advanced Training for Ships operating in Polar Waters" certified by the Ministry of Transport (hereinafter - the advanced training) in conformity with the requirements referred to in section A-V/4, paragraph 2 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹³ In order to work on ships operating in polar waters, the master of the ship and chief mate shall need to hold the advanced level certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹⁴ After successful completion of the basic training or the advanced training, the educational institution or training centre shall issue to a seafarer a documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity containing an entry on conformity with the requirements referred to in section A-V/4, paragraph 1 or 2 of the STCW Code.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹⁵ After fulfilment of the requirements referred to in Paragraph 86.¹⁰, 86.¹², or 86.¹⁶ of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters (Annex 5) to a seafarer with the term of validity of five years from the date of issue of the documentary evidence of completion of the basic training course or advanced training course, indicating the conformity with the relevant regulation of the STCW Convention. If a seafarer has worked in the capacity of the master of the ship or a deck officer on ships operating in polar waters or in equivalent conditions for at least two months within the past five years, the abovementioned certificate of proficiency shall be issued with the term of validity of five years from the date of its issue.

[22 June 2021]

86.¹⁶ In order to revalidate a certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters, the seafarer shall meet the following requirements:

86.¹⁶ 1. the current certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters has been issued at the Latvian Registry of Seamen in conformity with the requirements of the STCW Convention;

86.¹⁶ 2. during the past five years the seafarer has repeatedly completed the training programme in conformity with the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 86.¹⁰ or Sub-paragraph 86.¹² 3 of this Regulation or seagoing service - at least two months during the past five years in the capacity of the master of the ship or a deck officer on ships operating in polar waters or in equivalent conditions.

[21 November 2018]

86.¹⁷ In order to receive the certificate of proficiency for service on ships operating in polar waters, the candidate shall submit documentary evidence of meeting the requirements referred to in Paragraph 86.¹⁰, 86.¹², and 86.¹⁶ of this Regulation.

[21 November 2018]

12.3. Basic Requirements for the Personnel of a Passenger Ship Other than Ro-ro Ship

[23 April 2013]

87. [23 April 2013]

88. [23 April 2013]

13. Minimum Requirements for Special Competency

[23 April 2013]

13.1. General Provision

89. A seafarer shall complete training programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of Part A of the STCW Code and receive documentary evidence or certificates of proficiency which are evidence of special competency and which are issued by educational institutions or training centres. The requirements for special competency of a seafarer for granting of a particular qualification are specified in Annex 9 to this Regulation.

[19 January 2016]

13.2. Basic Safety Training

90. A seafarer shall complete the training programme "Basic Safety Training" (hereinafter - the basic safety training), certified by the Ministry of Transport, in accordance with the requirements of section A-VI/1 of the STCW Code and receive a certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

[22 June 2021]

91. A seafarer whose seagoing service during the last five years is at least three months shall complete the training programme "Basic Safety Training - Refresher Course", certified by the Ministry of Transport, in conformity with the requirements of section A-VI/1, paragraph 3 of the STCW Code and receive a new certificate of proficiency with the term of validity of five years.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

13.3. Requirements for the Proficiency in Handling Survival Craft and Fast Rescue Boats

92. The requirements for the proficiency in handling survival craft and rescue boats (other than fast rescue boats):

92.1. seagoing service - at least six months;

92.2. has successfully completed the training programme for handling survival craft certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Code and has received a new certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

93. The requirements for the proficiency in handling fast rescue boats:

93.1. the requirements referred to in Paragraph 92 of this Regulation are fulfilled;

93.2. has successfully completed the training programme for handling fast rescue boats certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code and has received a new certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

94. A seafarer whose seagoing service during the last five years is at least three months shall complete a training programme for the renewal of skills certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/2, paragraph 5 or 11 of the STCW Code and receive a new certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

[19 January 2016]

13.4. Acquisition of the Competency in Advanced Fire-fighting

95. A seafarer shall complete a training programme "Training in Advanced Fire-fighting" certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/3 of the STCW Code and receive a certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

95.¹ A seafarer whose seagoing service during the last five years is at least three months shall complete a training programme for the renewal of skills certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/3 of the STCW Code and receive a new certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

[19 January 2016]

13.5. Requirements for the Competency Relating to Medical First Aid and Medical Care

96. A seafarer shall complete a training programme on medical first aid certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code and receive a certificate of proficiency with an unlimited term of validity.

96.¹ [21 November 2018]

97. A seafarer shall, not less than once every five years, complete a medical care training programme certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/4-2 of the STCW Code, and receive a certificate of proficiency with a term of validity of five years.

13.6. Requirements for the Competency of Radiolocation and ECDIS

97.¹ A shipsʼ navigator shall complete a training programme on radiolocation certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of sections A-II/1, A-II/2 and A-II/3 of the STCW Code, and a training programme on ECDIS certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of sections A-II/1 and A-II/2 of the STCW Code, and after completion thereof the educational institution or training centre shall issue documentary evidence with an unlimited term of validity.

[19 January 2016]

97.² [21 November 2018]

13.7. Training Programmes "Bridge Resource Management", "Engine-room Resource Management", "Competency Upgrading Course for Engineer Officers" and "Updating Training for Ship Electro-technical Engineers"

97.³ A shipsʼ navigator, a shipsʼ engineer and an electro-technical officer on ships shall complete the following training programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport and receive a documentary evidence with unlimited term of validity:

97.³ 1. ships' navigator - the training programme "Bridge Resource Management" in compliance with the requirements of sections A-II/1 and A-II/2 of the STCW Code;

97.³ 2. ships' engineer - the training programme "Competency Upgrading Course for Engineer Officers" in compliance with the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code;

97.³ 3. ships' engineer - the training programme "Engine-room Resource Management" in compliance with the requirements of sections A-III/1 and A-III/2 of the STCW Code;

97.³ 4. electro-technical officer on ships - the training programme "Updating Training for Ship Electro-technical Engineers" in compliance with the requirements of Section A-III/6 of the STCW Code.

97.⁴ [21 November 2018]

13.8. Requirements for the Security Competency

97.⁵ The requirements for the competency of a ship security officer:

97.⁵ 1. seagoing service - at least 12 months;

97.⁵ 2. successfully completed the training programme "Ship Security Officer" certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/5 of the STCW Code.

97.⁶ A seafarer who is designated to perform security duties shall complete the training programme "Security Training for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties" certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/6-2 of the STCW Code.

97.⁷ A seafarer shall complete the training programme "Security - Awareness Training" certified by the Ministry of Transport in compliance with the requirements of section A-VI/6-1 of the STCW Code (except when the seafarer has already completed the training programme "Ship Security Officer" or "Security Training for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties" certified by the Ministry of Transport).

97.⁸ After fulfilment of the requirements referred to in this Sub-chapter the educational institution or training centre shall issue a certificate of proficiency to the seafarer with an unlimited term of validity.

[19 January 2016]

97.⁹ The educational institution or training centre shall acquaint a seafarer who has completed the training programme "Ship Security Officer" in accordance with the regulations of the STCW Convention, which were in force until 31 December 2011, with the changes in the STCW Convention in the field of competencies of the ship security officer and issue a certificate of proficiency with an unlimited term of validity to the seafarer.

[19 January 2016]

14. Issuance of a Qualification Certificate

[23 April 2013]

98. In order to receive a qualification certificate, the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation and the current qualification certificate (if any) to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present the originals of a personal identification document and of the document certifying maritime vocational education, and also the originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

98.1. an opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

98.2. [22 June 2021];

98.3. a document certifying seagoing service (for example, seagoing certificate, entry in the seaman's book);

98.4. documentary evidence and certificates of proficiency confirming the completion of the requirements of special competency in conformity with the requirements referred to in Annex 9 to this Regulation.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

99. In addition to the documents indicated in Paragraph 98 of this Regulation graduates of maritime educational institutions shall submit a training record book.

100. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall, within seven days, verify the authenticity of the documents and their term of validity and appoint the candidate for an assessment of competency with the assessment commission. If the documents have been issued in a foreign country, the documents shall be verified within the time period specified in the Administrative Procedure Law.

[13 November 2007; 21 November 2018]

101. If additional verification of the documents is necessary, the Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled to extend the term of verification for up to 30 days, informing the candidate thereof.

[22 June 2021]

102. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall assess the conformity of seagoing service for receipt of the relevant qualification, taking into account the requirements of section A-I/2, paragraph 5 of the STCW Code, the type of the ship, the duties carried out, and the requirements of the corresponding section of competencies of the STCW Convention.

[22 June 2021]

15. Revalidation of a Qualification Certificate

[23 April 2013]

103. A master, an officer or a rating who has been certified in compliance with the requirements of this Regulation shall, not less than once every five years, confirm the conformity of the professional competency thereof with the requirements of this Regulation and the STCW Convention, attesting their qualification for work on ship at sea, and shall receive a revalidated qualification certificate.

[23 April 2013]

104. Conditions for the receipt of a revalidated qualification certificate:

104.1. the current qualification certificate has been issued at the Latvian Registry of Seamen in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention or this Regulation;

104.2. during the last year an examination of knowledge of the English language has been successfully passed at the Latvian Registry of Seamen in compliance with the requirements for the relevant qualification and sections of the STCW Code;

104.3. the candidate has worked for at least 12 months during the last five years or three months during the last six months according to the qualification and restrictions indicated in the qualification certificate, carrying out the duties corresponding to the qualification certificate, or has worked ashore in such a capacity, carrying out of work duties of which has allowed to retain the skills of the relevant qualification (for example, employee of a maritime institution);

104.4. the assessment commission has provided a positive assessment of competency of the candidate in compliance with the level of qualification.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

105. In order to revalidate the qualification of a master (except for the qualification for work on ships in the near-coastal voyages area), a chief mate, a chief engineer officer, and a second engineer officer, the candidate shall, in addition to the conditions referred to in Paragraph 104 of this Regulation, complete successfully the training programme "Competency Updating Courses" certified by the Ministry of Transport if more than five years have passed since completing the vocational education programme.

[19 January 2016; 8 August 2017]

106. A seafarer who has repeatedly applied for the qualification referred to in Sub-paragraph 41.1, 41.5, 41.7, 55.1, 55.3, or 55.5 of this Regulation, shall take an examination of competency in accordance with Paragraph 79 of this Regulation, if the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 104.3 of this Regulation are not met.

[23 April 2013]

107. In order to revalidate a qualification certificate, the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation and the current qualification certificate to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present the original of a personal identification document, and also the originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

107.1. an opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

107.2. [22 June 2021];

107.3. a document certifying maritime vocational education;

107.4. documentary evidence and certificates of proficiency confirming the completion of the requirements of special competency in conformity with the requirements referred to in Annex 9 to this Regulation;

107.5. a document certifying seagoing service (for example, seagoing certificate, entry in the seaman's book).

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

108. In order to verify the authenticity and validity of the documents referred to in Paragraph 107 of this Regulation, the conditions referred to in Paragraphs 100, 101, and 102 of this Regulation shall be applied.

[23 April 2013]

109. The term of validity of a certificate of competency and an endorsement may be extended for up to 12 months, if the competency of the candidate concurrently conforms to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraphs 104.1 and 104.3 of this Regulation and it is not restricted by the term of validity of the certificates of proficiency.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

110. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue:

110.1. a new certificate of competency and an endorsement of the certificate of competency to the master of a ship and officer whose qualification requirements are laid down in Chapter II, III, or VII of the STCW Convention, if five years have passed since the date of issue of the certificate of competency or a new endorsement of the certificate of competency if less than five years have passed since the date of issue of the certificate of competency;

110.2. a new certificate of proficiency to a rating whose qualification requirements are laid down in Chapter II, III, or VII of the STCW Convention;

110.3. a new national certificate of competency to other seafarers.

[8 August 2017]

16. Recognition of a Qualification Certificate Issued in a Foreign Country

[23 April 2013]

16.1. General Provisions

111. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue an endorsement of attesting the recognition (Annex 10) in compliance with the requirements of Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention to a master of a ship and an officer forming part of a watch who has a valid certificate of competency issued by the competent authority of a foreign country and endorsement thereof or a certificate of proficiency in tankers, for work on ships flying the flag of Latvia. Only such qualification certificates issued by the competent authorities of a foreign country shall be recognised, which are valid for at least six more months and have been issued in a member state to the STCW Convention, which completely meets the requirements of the STCW Convention.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

112. The endorsement of attesting the recognition of a qualification certificate issued in compliance with the requirements of Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention for a qualification certificate of another foreign country shall not be the grounds for the recognition of such certificate in the Republic of Latvia.

[19 January 2016]

113. In compliance with that specified in Regulation I/10, paragraph 5 of the STCW Convention the Latvian Registry of Seamen may allow a seafarer who has been issued the relevant documents of qualification in a foreign country and who has submitted the documents indicated in Paragraph 114 of this Regulation for receipt of an endorsement of attesting the recognition to the Latvian Registry of Seamen, may fill in a capacity on a ship flying the flag of Latvia for a time period up to three months. In such case the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of receipt of application (Annex 11) to the seafarer.

114. For the receipt of an endorsement of attesting the recognition of a qualification certificate issued by a foreign country a candidate or a representative of the ship's owner shall submit the following to the Latvian Registry of Seamen:

114.1. an application (Annex 15);

114.2. one photograph or digital face image of the seafarer which conforms to the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding personal identification documents;

114.3. a copy of the personal identification document;

114.4. copies of the certificate of competency and endorsement thereof;

114.5. a copy of the opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship issued in accordance with the requirements of Regulation I/9 of the STCW Convention and section A-I/9 of the STCW Code;

114.6. a copy of the certificate of proficiency in tankers (if such has been issued);

114.7. a statement from the ship's owner or its representative confirming the planned work on the ship flying the flag of Latvia (indicating the name of the ship, the IMO number of the ship, the capacity of the candidate).

[8 August 2017; 21 November 2018]

114.¹ In order to verify the authenticity and validity of the documents referred to in Paragraph 114 of this Regulation, the conditions referred to in Paragraphs 100 and 101 of this Regulation shall be applied.

[21 November 2018]

115. A master of a ship, chief mate, chief engineer officer, as well as second engineer officer certified in a foreign country who is applying for an endorsement of recognition of the qualification certificate shall confirm the knowledge of the legislation of the Republic of Latvia in the maritime industry.

[23 April 2013]

116. The Ministry of Transport shall inform the member states to the STCW Convention, the qualification certificate of which may be recognised in the Republic of Latvia, regarding substantial changes in the system for the preparation and certification of seafarers.

[23 April 2013]

16.2. Recognition of a Qualification Certificate Issued in a European Union Member State

[23 April 2013]

117. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall recognise a qualification certificate and a certificate of proficiency which has been issued in accordance with Regulations V/1-1 and V/1-2 of the STCW Convention of a master of a ship and an officer whose qualification requirements are laid down in Chapter II, III, or VII of the STCW Convention, issued in a European Union Member State, according to Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention and the laws and regulations of the Republic of Latvia regarding recognition of professional qualification.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

16.3. Recognition of a Qualification Certificate Issued in a Third Country

[23 April 2013]

118. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall recognise a qualification certificate and a certificate of proficiency which has been issued in accordance with Regulations V/1-1 and V/1-2 of the STCW Convention of a master of a ship and an officer whose qualification requirements are laid down in Chapter II, III, or VII of the STCW Convention, issued in a third country, according to Regulation I/10 of the STCW Convention and the requirements referred to in this Regulation.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017; 22 June 2021]

119. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue an endorsement of recognition to a qualification certificate issued in a third country, if the European Commission in co-operation with the European Maritime Safety Agency has recognised the country and, on the basis of a decision of the European Commission, it has been included in the list of recognised third countries, to be published by the European Commission in C series of the Official Journal of the European Union.

[23 April 2013]

120. If it is planned to recognise a qualification certificate issued by a third country, however, such country has not been recognised yet in accordance with Paragraph 119 of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall inform the Ministry of Transport thereof. The Ministry of Transport shall submit a request to the European Commission for the recognition of the relevant third country. The Ministry of Transport is entitled to unilaterally take the decision to recognise the qualification certificates issued by the relevant third country until the time when the European Commission decides on the qualification certificates of the third country. If the Ministry of Transport has taken the decision on unilateral recognition, it shall inform the European Commission of the of the number of endorsements of recognition of such certificates of competency and certificates of proficiency of the third country which the Latvian Registry of Seamen has issued until the moment when the decision of the European Commission on recognition of the third country has been taken.

[23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

121. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall inform the Ministry of Transport regarding a third country recognised in compliance with Paragraph 119 of this Regulation, which does not meet with the requirements of the STCW Convention. The Ministry of Transport shall inform the European Commission thereof. The Ministry of Transport shall inform the European Commission and other European Union Member States, if it is planned to revoke the endorsement of recognition issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen to qualification certificates issued by a third country specifying the justification.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

122. [23 April 2013]

17. Alternative Certification of Seafarers

123. In conformity with the requirements of Chapter VII of the STCW Code for the alternative certification of seafarers, the Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled to, taking into account the specificity of a ship of specific type or the completion of a special vocational preparation programme, issue a qualification certificate joined with the qualification of a seafarer or a qualification certificate regarding special knowledge and competency of the person for work on the ship of special type, indicating in the qualification certificate.

[23 April 2013]

123.¹ In performing certification of seafarers in the cases referred to in Paragraph 167 or 168 of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen, taking into account the specificity of a ship of specific type, is entitled not to apply the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraphs 43.2, 43.4, 57.2 and 57.3 of this Regulation, without reducing the total seagoing service. In such case the restrictions for the ship of special type shall be indicated in the certificate of competency or endorsement.

[15 September 2009]

123.² In performing certification of seafarers in the cases referred to in Paragraph 167 or 168 of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen, taking into account the specificity of a ship of specific type, is entitled to grant the qualification indicated in Sub-paragraph 55.1 of this Regulation for restricted use, if the candidate to whom the qualification indicated in Sub-paragraph 55.2 of this Regulation has been granted has worked in the capacity of a chief engineer officer for 12 months. In such case the restrictions for the ship of special type shall be indicated in the certificate of competency or endorsement.

[15 September 2009]

123.³ Ships' navigators of recreational craft the length of which does not exceed 24 metres, it is involved in commercial activity and carry out international voyages shall be certified in accordance with the requirements referred to in Paragraph 45.² of this Regulation. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue the relevant certificate of competency and endorsement of the STCW Convention by indicating the limitations.

[8 August 2017]

Part D. Certification of the Personnel of a Fishing Vessel

18. General Provisions

124. This Part prescribes the requirements and procedures for certification of the personnel of fishing vessels and the personnel of fishing boats.

125. The owner and master of a fishing vessel shall be responsible for manning of the ship's crew with a personnel trained and certified according to the requirements of this Regulation, taking into account the length and propulsion power of the ship, the technical equipment of the ship and the fishing area.

19. Qualification of Ships' Navigators of Fishing Vessels and Minimum Requirements for the Candidates Thereto

126. The following professional qualification shall be granted to ships' navigators of fishing vessels:

126.1. master on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or any mate on any fishing vessel;

126.2. master on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or any mate on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area;

126.3. master on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of a master or any mate on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area;

126.4. chief mate on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of the chief mate or any other mate on any fishing vessel in an unrestricted fishing area;

126.5. officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of the officer in charge of a navigational watch on any fishing vessel in an unrestricted fishing area;

126.6. officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area - is entitled to hold the capacity of the officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area;

126.7. officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area is entitled to hold the capacity of the officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area;

126.8. skipper - is entitled to hold the capacity of a skipper on fishing vessels of less than 12 metres in length, or on fishing boats.

127. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area:

127.1. has completed the approved vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code;

127.2. seagoing service - 18 months in the capacity of a mate on ships of over 12 metres in length from which at least 12 months on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over, in the capacity of the chief mate in an unrestricted fishing area;

127.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

127.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

128. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area:

128.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme and preparation programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

128.2. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of over 12 metres in length, from which at least six months on fishing vessels in an unrestricted fishing area;

128.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

128.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

129. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area:

129.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme and preparation programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

129.2. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of over 12 metres in length, from which at least six months on fishing vessels;

129.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

129.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

130. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief mate on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area:

130.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

130.2. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of over 12 metres in length, from which at least six months on fishing vessels of over 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area;

130.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

130.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

131. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or over in an unrestricted fishing area:

131.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

131.2. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the deck department on ships of over 12 metres in length, from which at least six months carrying out the duties of navigational watch under the supervision of the master or officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels in an unrestricted fishing area;

131.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

131.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

132. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in an unrestricted fishing area:

132.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

132.2. seagoing service - six months in the deck department on fishing vessels of over 12 metres in length;

132.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

132.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

133. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length in a restricted fishing area:

133.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

133.2. seagoing service - six months in the deck department, from which at least three months on fishing vessels of over 12 metres in length;

133.3. has completed the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

133.4. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

134. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a skipper:

134.1. has completed the training programme "Basic Training Course of a Skipper of Fishing Boats", certified by the Ministry of Transport, or has completed the basic safety training, certified by the Ministry of Transport, and the medical first aid training programme, certified by the Ministry of Transport;

134.2. at least two months of practical work experience at sea or a previously acquired skipper's qualification;

134.3. has passed the examination of competency.

[19 January 2016]

20. Qualification of Ships' Engineers on Fishing Vessels and Minimum Requirements for the Candidates Thereto

135. The following qualification shall be granted to a ships' engineer on fishing vessels:

135.1. chief engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold any capacity of engineer officer on fishing vessels without restrictions of main propulsion power;

135.2. chief engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of any engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

135.3. second engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of a second engineer officer or officer in charge of an engineering watch on fishing vessels without restrictions of main propulsion power;

135.4. second engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of a second engineer officer or officer in charge of an engineering watch on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

135.5. officer in charge of an engineering watch on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more - is entitled to hold the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more;

135.6. engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of an engineer officer on the ship on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power;

135.7. engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power - is entitled to hold the capacity of an engineer officer on the ship on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power.

136. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more:

136.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/3 or A-III/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

136.2. seagoing service - 24 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW propulsion power, from which not less 12 months in the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of not less than 3000 kW propulsion power;

136.3. has passed the examination of competency.

137. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power:

137.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

137.2. seagoing service - 24 months in the capacity of an engineer officer on vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 300 kW propulsion power, from which not less than 12 months in the capacity of a second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW propulsion power;

137.3. has passed the examination of competency.

138. Requirements when applying for the qualification - second engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power or more:

138.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 or A-III/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

138.2. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 750 kW propulsion power;

138.3. has passed the examination of competency.

139. Requirements when applying for the qualification - second engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power:

139.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

139.2. seagoing service - at least 12 months in the capacity of an officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 300 kW propulsion power;

139.3. has passed the examination of competency.

140. Requirements when applying for the qualification - officer in charge of an engineering watch on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more:

140.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

140.2. seagoing service - six months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 300 kW propulsion power or more;

140.3. has passed the examination of competency.

141. Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power:

141.1. has completed an accredited programme for ships' engineers, certified by the Ministry of Transport, for work with engines of less than 750 kW;

141.2. seagoing service - four months in the composition of the engine department on ships at sea;

141.3. has passed the examination of competency.

142. Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on fishing vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power:

142.1. has completed an accredited programme for ships' engineers, certified by the Ministry of Transport, for work with engines of less than 300 kW;

142.2. seagoing service - four months in the composition of the engine department on ships at sea;

142.3. has passed the examination of competency.

21. Qualification of Rating Personnel of Fishing Vessels and Minimum Requirements for the Candidates Thereto

143. The following qualification shall be granted to the rating personnel of fishing vessels:

143.1. fisher - is entitled to hold the capacity of a fisher on fishing vessels;

143.2. seaman on a fishing vessel - is entitled to hold the capacity of a rating forming part of a navigational watch on fishing vessels;

143.3. motorman on a fishing vessel - is entitled to hold the capacity of a rating forming part of an engine-room watch on fishing vessels;

143.4. chief trawl operator - is entitled to hold the capacity of the chief trawl operator on fishing vessels of over 45 metres in length;

143.5. skilled fisher - is entitled to hold the capacity of a skilled fisher on fishing vessels of 45 metres in length or less.

144. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a fisher:

144.1. has completed training programme for fisher, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or an equivalent programme, or two-month practical training on a ship at sea;

144.2. seagoing service - at least two months in the deck department on a fishing vessel at sea;

144.3. has passed the examination of competency.

[15 September 2009]

145. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a seaman on a fishing vessel:

145.1. has completed training programme for seamen, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or six-month practical training on a ship;

145.2. seagoing service - two months in the deck department on a ship at sea;

145.3. has passed the examination of competency.

146. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a motorman on a fishing vessel:

146.1. has completed training programme for motorman, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or six-month practical training on a ship;

146.2. seagoing service - two months in the composition of the engine department on a ship at sea;

146.3. has passed the examination of competency.

147. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a chief trawl operator:

147.1. has completed programme for trawl operators, including deep-sea trawling, in an institution of secondary or higher education;

147.2. seagoing service - four months of maritime practice on fishing vessels in an unrestricted fishing area;

147.3. has passed the examination of competency.

148. Requirements when applying for the qualification of a skilled fisher:

148.1. has completed programme for skilled fishers in courses or practical training on a fishing vessel;

148.2. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of a fisher on a ship at sea;

148.3. has passed the examination of competency.

22. Additional Special Competency Requirements for the Personnel of a Fishing Vessel

149. The personnel of a fishing vessel shall complete the basic safety training certified by the Ministry of Transport or training programme "Basic Safety Training for the Personnel of a Fishing Vessel". After the completion of the training programme "Basic Safety Training for the Personnel of a Fishing Vessel" the educational institution or training centre shall issue a certificate with an unlimited term of validity.

[19 January 2016]

149.¹ A valid qualification certificate issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen for the personnel of fishing vessels shall certify that the necessary competency requirements in the field of safety have been met and that additional certification regarding completion of the programmes referred to in Paragraph 149 of this Regulation is not necessary.

[22 June 2021]

150. In order to grant the qualification to the personnel of a fishing vessel for work on fishing vessels of over 45 metres in length or powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 3000 kW propulsion power, the personnel shall complete the following training programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport:

150.1. the radiolocation and ARPA training programme - masters and mates;

150.2. the medical care programme - masters and chief mates;

150.3. the medical first aid programme - mates and engineer officers;

150.4. the training in advanced fire-fighting management - masters, chiefs, and engineer officers;

150.5. programme for handling survival craft and rescue boats - masters and mates.

151. In order to grant the qualification to the personnel of a fishing vessel for work on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length and powered by main propulsion machinery of propulsion power from 750 to 3000 kW (inclusive) in an unrestricted fishing area, the personnel shall complete the following training programmes, certified by the Ministry of Transport:

151.1. the radiolocation training programme - masters and mates;

151.2. the medical first aid programme - masters, mates, and engineer officers;

151.3. the training in advanced fire-fighting management - masters;

151.4. programme for handling survival craft and rescue boats - masters and mates.

152. In order to grant the qualification to the personnel of a fishing vessel for work on fishing vessels of less than 45 metres in length and powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power in a restricted fishing area, the personnel shall complete the following training programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport:

152.1. the radiolocation training programme - masters and mates;

152.2. the medical first aid programme - masters;

152.3. the training in advanced fire-fighting management - masters.

[19 January 2016]

23. Issuance of a Qualification Certificate and Recognition of a Qualification Certificate Issued in a Foreign Country

[19 January 2016]

153. In order to receive a qualification certificate (Annex 12), the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation and the current qualification certificate (if any) to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present the originals of a personal identification document and of the document certifying maritime vocational education and also the originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

153.1. an opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

153.2. [22 June 2021];

153.3. a document certifying seagoing service;

153.4. special certificates of training courses in compliance with the requirements of Chapter 22 of this Regulation.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

154. In order to verify the authenticity and validity of the documents referred to in Paragraph 153 of this Regulation, the conditions referred to in Paragraphs 100 and 101 of this Regulation shall be applied.

[23 April 2013]

154.¹ The assessment commission shall assess the competency of the personnel of a fishing vessel in accordance with the criteria and methodology laid down in the STCW-F Convention. The time periods in which an examination of competency shall be taken shall be determined in accordance with the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 79.¹ of this Regulation. After the assessment of competency an assessment protocol (Annex 8) shall be drawn up in conformity with the requirements referred to in Paragraph 80 of this Regulation.

[21 November 2018]

155. The qualification certificate, which has been issued in compliance with the requirements of Parts B and C of this Regulation (with the STCW Convention), shall be valid for work on fishing vessels, taking into account the voyages area and the size or propulsion power of the vessel. A respective entry shall be made in the qualification certificate of the ships' navigator.

[19 January 2016]

156. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue an endorsement of the recognition (Annex 13) in compliance with the requirements of Regulation I/3, paragraphs 5 and 6 of the STCW-F Convention to a master and an officer of a fishing vessel who has a valid qualification certificate issued by the competent authority of a Member State to the STCW-F Convention for work on fishing vessels flying the flag of Latvia. Such qualification certificate shall be recognised which is valid for at least six more months. The master of a fishing vessel, applying for the endorsement of attesting the recognition shall confirm the knowledge of the legislation of the Republic of Latvia related to fishing.

[19 January 2016]

157. For the receipt of an endorsement of the recognition the candidate or representative of the owner of the ship shall submit to the Latvian Registry of Seamen the documents indicated in Paragraph 114 of this Regulation. After submission of the documents the Latvian Registry of Seamen may permit a seafarer to serve on a ship flying the flag of Latvia for a period of up to three months. In such case the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of receipt of application (Annex 11) to the seafarer.

[19 January 2016]

157.¹ The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall assess the competency of the a master and an officer of fishing vessels in accordance with the requirements of the STCW-F Convention if he or she has a valid:

157.¹ 1. qualification certificate for work on fishing vessels which has been issued by a European Union Member State that is not a Member State to the STCW-F Convention; or

157.¹ 2. qualification certificate issued by a European Union Member State for work on fishing vessels the length of which is up to 24 metres.

[22 June 2021]

24. Revalidation of a Certificate of Competency

158. The master, officers, and ratings of a fishing vessel who have been certified in accordance with the requirements of the provisions of this Part shall, not less than once every five years, and skippers shall, not less than once every 10 years, prove the conformity of their professional competency with the requirements referred to in this Regulation, attesting their qualification for work on a fishing vessel or fishing boat at sea and receiving a revalidated certificate of competency.

[23 April 2013]

159. Conditions for the issuance of a revalidated certificate of competency:

159.1. the current certificate has been issued in the Latvian Registry of Seamen;

159.2. during the last five years the candidate has worked in the relevant capacity on fishing vessels at sea for not less than one year or carried out functions which are deemed as equivalent by the Latvian Registry of Seamen;

159.3. the assessment commission has successfully assessed the competency of the candidate in conformity with the level of qualification thereof.

[19 January 2016]

160. In order to revalidate a certificate of competency, the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation and the current certificate of competency to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present the original of a personal identification document and also the originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

160.1. [22 June 2021];

160.2. an opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

160.3. certificates of special training which are necessary for the acquisition of the relevant qualification;

160.4. a document certifying seagoing service.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

161. In order to revalidate an issued certificate of competency to a seafarer in accordance with the procedures laid down in this Chapter, the conditions of Paragraphs 100, 101, and 154.¹ of this Regulation shall be applied.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013]

162. Candidates for the revalidation of an issued certificate of competency who have received certificates of competency prior to the coming into force of this Regulation and whose vocational education does not conform to the requirements provided for in this Regulation, are entitled to receive a revalidation of certificate of competency without additional conditions in compliance with the requirements specified in Paragraph 159 of this Regulation.

Part E. Certification of the Personnel of Inland Waterway Vessels of the Republic of Latvia

25. General Provisions

163. This Part prescribes the certification procedures for the personnel, which has not been certified in compliance with the requirements of the STCW Convention and which is working on self-propelled inland waterway vessels of the Republic of Latvia registered in the Register of Ships and involved in commercial activities (hereinafter - the inland waterway vessels).

164. The requirements of this Part shall not be applied to the personnel of a floating object of inland waters, if the floating object is not self-propelled (for example, floating workshop, barge). The qualification requirements for such personnel shall be determined by the owner of the floating object, and the requirements shall ensure work and navigation safety, environmental protection and shall conform to the requirements of the laws and regulations regarding work on ships.

165. The qualification of the personnel of inland waterway vessels shall be confirmed by a national certificate of competency (Annex 6) issued by the Latvian Registry of Seamen with the term of validity of five years from the date of assessment of competency.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

166. The certified seafarers shall fill in a capacity corresponding to the qualification on an inland waterway vessel of the relevant gross tonnage or propulsion power, if the special training provided for in Chapter 27 of this Regulation for the personnel of the relevant type of the ship has been completed.

167. If a master or officer is working on port fleet ships involved in the national contingency plan for combating oil pollution or in the search and rescue plan, or also carries out activities outside the port basin, as well as on other inland waterway vessels with propulsion power over 3000 kW, they shall be certified in compliance with the requirements of the STCW Convention.

[13 November 2007]

168. If inland waterway vessels leave for the gulf, the masters and mates thereof shall be certified in compliance with the requirements of the STCW Convention for seafarers working on seagoing ships in the near-coastal voyages area.

[13 November 2007]

168.¹ The personnel of inland waterway vessels to which the qualification certificate has been issued in accordance with the requirements of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/182 of 14 January 2020 on models in the field of professional qualifications in inland navigation (hereinafter - Regulation No 2020/182) or in accordance with the requirements of the legal acts of the European Union regarding recognition of professional qualification for voyages along inland waterways is entitled to work in inland waterways on ships flying the flag of the Republic of Latvia.

[22 June 2021]

168.² A service record book which conforms to the requirements of Regulation No 2020/182 or has been issued in accordance with the requirements of the legal acts of the European Union regarding recognition of professional qualification for voyages along inland waterways shall be valid for work in inland waterways on ships flying the flag of the Republic of Latvia.

[22 June 2021]

169. A crew member of inland waterway vessels who has been issued a certificate of competency conforming to the STCW Convention is also entitled to apply for a qualification conforming to the STCW Convention henceforth, confirming the competency in compliance with Part C of this Regulation.

170. Upon issuing a certificate of competency conforming to the STCW Convention in the case referred to in Paragraphs 167, 168 and 169 of this Regulation, the Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled to specify restrictions in the endorsement in relation to the type of the ship, if the competency in any of the functions does not completely conform to the relevant requirements of the STCW Code.

[19 January 2016]

26. Minimum Requirements for the Qualification of the Personnel of Inland Waterway Vessels

171. The following professional qualification shall be granted to the master and officer on an inland waterway vessel:

171.1. master on inland waterway vessels;

171.2. navigational watch officer on inland waterway vessels;

171.3. chief engineer officer on inland waterway vessels;

171.4. engineer officer on inland waterway vessels.

172. The master and chief of an inland waterway vessel shall be issued a certificate of competency with the following restrictions of tonnage of the vessel:

172.1. for vessels of less than 3000 GT (up to 3000 GT);

172.2. for vessels of less than 500 GT (up to 500 GT);

172.3. for vessels of less than 200 GT (up to 200 GT);

172.4. for vessels of less than 50 GT.

[13 November 2007]

173. The engineer officer on an inland waterway vessel shall be issued a certificate of competency with the following restrictions of propulsion power:

173.1. the main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power (up to 3000 kW);

173.2. the main propulsion machinery of less than 1000 kW propulsion power (up to 1000 kW);

173.3. the main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power (up to 300 kW).

[13 November 2007]

174. The following professional qualification shall be granted to the inland waterway rating personnel:

174.1. a seaman on inland waterway vessels;

174.2. a motorman on inland waterway vessels.

175. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on inland waterway vessels of less than 3000 GT:

175.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

175.2. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of a mate on ships over 500 GT, or 12 months in the capacity of a master on ships over 200 GT;

175.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

175.4. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007; 19 January 2016]

176. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on inland waterway vessels of less than 500 GT:

176.1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-II/3 of the STCW Code, or an equivalent programme;

176.2. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of a mate on ships over 200 GT, or 12 months in the capacity of a master on ships of 200 GT or less;

176.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

176.4. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007; 19 January 2016]

177. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on inland waterway vessels of less than 200 GT:

177.1. has completed a special training course according to an accredited ship's navigator programme on ships of less than 200 GT, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or an equivalent programme;

177.2. seagoing service - six months in the capacity of a master's trainee on ships over 50 GT, or four months in the capacity of a master on ships of 50 GT or less;

177.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

177.4. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007; 19 January 2016]

178. Requirements when applying for the qualification - master on inland waterway vessels of less than 50 GT:

178.1. has completed a special training course according to an accredited boatmaster's programme on ships of less than 50 GT, certified by the Ministry of Transport;

178.2. seagoing service - two months in the capacity of a master's trainee;

178.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

178.4. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007; 23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

179. Requirements when applying for the qualification - navigational watch officer (master's mate) on inland waterway vessels:

179.1. has completed an accredited ship's navigator vocational education programme according to the tonnage of the ship, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or an equivalent programme;

179.2. seagoing service - six-month training practice or work in the capacity of a seaman on ships;

179.3. has acquired the qualification of radiocommunications personnel;

179.4. has passed the qualification examination.

[19 January 2016]

179.¹ Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on inland waterway vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power (up to 3000 kW):

179.¹ 1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme for shipsʼ engineers certified by the Ministry of Transport, on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, or an equivalent programme;

179.¹ 2. seagoing service - 12 months in the capacity of an engineer officer on the ship on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 300 kW propulsion power;

179.¹ 3. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007]

180. Requirements when applying for the qualification - chief engineer officer on inland waterway vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 1000 kW propulsion power:

180.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme for engineer officers on ships, certified by the Ministry of Transport, on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power, or an equivalent programme;

180.2. seagoing service - six months in the capacity of an engineer officer on the ship on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of more than 300 kW propulsion power;

180.3. has passed the qualification examination.

180.¹ Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on inland waterway vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power (up to 3000 kW):

180.¹ 1. has completed the accredited vocational education programme for engineer officers on a ship certified by the Ministry of Transport, on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, or an equivalent programme;

180.¹ 2. seagoing service - six months in the capacity of a trainee or a motorman on a ship;

180.¹ 3. has passed the qualification examination.

[13 November 2007]

181. Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on inland waterway vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 1000 kW propulsion power:

181.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme for engineer officers on ships, certified by the Ministry of Transport, on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power, or an equivalent programme;

181.2. seagoing service - six months in the capacity of a trainee or a motorman on a ship;

181.3. has passed the qualification examination.

182. Requirements when applying for the qualification - engineer officer on inland waterway vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power:

182.1. has completed an accredited vocational education programme for engineer officers on ships, certified by the Ministry of Transport, on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 300 kW propulsion power, or an equivalent programme;

182.2. seagoing service - two months in the capacity of a trainee or a motorman on a ship;

182.3. has passed the qualification examination.

183. Requirements when applying for the qualification - seaman on inland waterway vessels:

183.1. has completed accredited courses for seamen, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or six-month practical work on ship;

183.2. seagoing service - month of work practice on ship;

183.3. has passed the qualification examination.

184. Requirements when applying for the qualification - motorman on inland waterway vessels:

184.1. has completed accredited courses for motormen, certified by the Ministry of Transport, or six-month practical work on ship;

184.2. seagoing service - month of work practice on ship;

184.3. has passed the qualification examination.

185. The Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled to issue the national certificate of competency, indicating therein a joint qualification of master-engineer officer, navigational watch officer-engineer, or seaman-motorman on inland waterway vessels to persons who have fulfilled the requirements for the relevant qualification.

[22 June 2021]

186. In order to receive the national certificate of competency with joint qualification, the master and navigational watch officer on an inland waterway vessel must complete special training courses for ship's engineers in compliance to a programme certified by the Ministry of Transport on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 300 kW propulsion power or more. Seamen-motormen must have the skills of practical work in both specialities.

[22 June 2021]

187. A certificate of competency, which has been issued in compliance with Part C of this Regulation, in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Convention shall grant the right to the holder thereof to hold a capacity on inland waterway vessels in compliance with the tonnage or propulsion power of the ship indicated in the certificate of competency.

27. Special Competency Requirements

188. The personnel of inland waterway vessels shall complete the basic safety training in compliance with the programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport.

189. In addition the personnel of inland waterway passenger vessels shall complete the crowd management according to the programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport.

190. In addition the personnel of inland tankers, taking into account the specificity of the tanker, shall complete the training programme "Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations" or "Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations", certified by the Ministry of Transport.

[23 April 2013]

191. In addition the master and officer on inland tankers shall complete advanced training for tankers and training in advanced fire-fighting in compliance with the programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport.

192. If a ship is involved in the port fire-fighting plan, in addition the master and officer thereof shall complete training in advanced fire-fighting according to the programmes certified by the Ministry of Transport.

193. The owner of the ship shall be responsible for the accordance with the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 189, 190, 191, and 192 of this Regulation.

28. Issuance of a Certificate of Competency

194. The competency of the seafarers referred to in Paragraphs 167, 168, and 169 of this Regulation shall be assessed by the assessment commission in accordance with the requirements of Part C of this Regulation. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a certificate of competency corresponding to the STCW Convention.

[8 August 2017]

195. The competency of the remaining personnel of inland waterway vessels shall be assessed by the port assessment commission which prior to the assessment of competency shall examine the documents submitted by the candidate and, if necessary, request that the Latvian Registry of Seamen verifies the authenticity of the documents.

[13 November 2007]

196. The port assessment commission shall submit a protocol of assessment to the Latvian Registry of Seamen. The port assessment commission shall indicate in the protocol of assessment the restrictions to be included in the certificate of competency in relation to the gross tonnage and propulsion power of a ship.

197. In order to receive the national certificate of competency, the candidate shall submit the application referred to in Paragraph 15.⁴ of this Regulation and the current certificate of competency to the Latvian Registry of Seamen and present the original of a personal identification document or a document certifying education or completion of training courses and also the originals of the following documents (if the document has not been registered in the database or its authenticity has not been verified):

197.1. [22 June 2021];

197.2. the certificate of proficiency in basic safety training;

197.3. an opinion on medical fitness of a seafarer for work on a ship;

197.4. a document certifying seagoing service. Seagoing service shall be assessed according to Paragraph 102 of this Regulation.

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

198. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall verify the authenticity and validity of the documents indicated in Paragraph 197 of this Regulation in accordance with the conditions of Paragraphs 100 and 101 of this Regulation.

199. If the results of verification confirm the conformity of the documents and the assessment protocol confirms the conformity of the competency of the candidate with the relevant qualification, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue the certificate of competency.

[21 November 2018]

29. Recognition of a Certificate of Competency Issued in a Foreign Country

[22 June 2021]

200. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall verify the authenticity of certificates of competency of the personnel of inland waterway vessels issued in accordance with the requirements of the legal acts of the European Union regarding recognition of professional qualification for voyages along inland waterways and also in a European Union Member State by officially requesting an endorsement of the issuing authority of the certificate. Masters of ships shall be required to have knowledge of the laws and regulations of Latvia in accordance with the competency thereof and the official language in accordance with the laws and regulations regarding the official language. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue an endorsement of the recognition of the certificate of competency (Annex 14) to masters and officers on inland waterway vessels whose foreign certificates are being recognised.

[19 January 2016; 22 June 2021]

201. For the receipt of an endorsement of the recognition of the certificate of competency the candidate or representative of the owner of the ship shall submit the documents indicated in Paragraph 114 of this Regulation.

30. Revalidation of a National Certificate of Competency

202. A master, officer, and rating personnel which has been certified in accordance with the requirements of this Part, of inland waterway vessels shall, not less than once every five years certify the conformity of their professional competency with the requirements of this Regulation, attesting their qualification for work on inland waterway vessels and receiving a revalidation of certificate of competency.

203. The requirements of Chapter 28 of this Regulation shall be applied to the revalidation of the national certificate of competency.

Part F. Detention, Suspension of Operation, Renewal of Operation, Cancellation, Recognition as Invalid and Refusal of Issuance of Documents

[23 April 2013]

31. Detention and Suspension of Operation

204. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall detain a qualification certificate if:

204.1. there are suspicions that amendments or unauthorised entries have been made or false information has been provided in the qualification certificate or the document, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued - for the time of investigation, but not more than for four months;

204.2. the qualification certificate or the document, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued, has not been registered in the register of the issuing authority indicated therein and the issuing authority does not confirm the issuance thereof - for the time of investigation, but not more than for four months;

204.3. the qualification certificate or the document, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued, contains signs of forgery or false information - for the time of investigation, but not more than for one year;

204.4. it has been requested by a law enforcement institution in writing - for the time period indicated in the request or, if any, for one year;

204.5. if the report referred to in Chapter 34 of this Regulation has been received and the Latvian Registry of Seamen has initiated an investigation - for the time of investigation, but not more than for four months;

204.6. the seafarer is a suspect or accused in a criminal case in an accident at sea - for the time period up to the moment when the final ruling in the criminal case enters into effect;

204.7. [8 August 2017];

204.8. the information has been received that the seafarer has infringed the restrictions for the use of alcohol or the prohibition of the use of narcotic and psychotropic substances laid down in laws and regulations while on board the ship - for the time of investigation, but not more than for four months;

204.9. there are suspicions of intentional damaging or negligent storage of the qualification certificate - for the time of investigation, but not more than for four months.

[8 August 2017]

204.¹ In the cases and within the time period referred to in Sub-paragraphs 204.1, 204.2, 204.3 and 204.4 of this Regulation the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall also detain documents, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued.

205. If the qualification certificate has not been submitted to the Latvian Registry of Seamen, in the cases referred to in Paragraph 204 of this Regulation the operation of the qualification certificate shall be suspended for the referred to time period.

205.¹ The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall request the issuing authority of the qualification certificate to suspend the operation of the qualification certificate issued in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 2020/182 or the requirements of the legal acts of the European Union regarding recognition of professional qualification for voyages along inland waterways if a non-conformity with the requirements of the legal acts of the European Union regarding recognition of professional qualification for voyages along inland waterways has been detected or its owner causes circumstances endangering public order or safety. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall inform the Ministry of Transport thereof and the Ministry of Transport shall inform the European Commission.

[22 June 2021]

32. Cancellation

206. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall cancel a qualification certificate or a certificate of receipt of application (Annex 11) (hereinafter - the certificate of receipt of application) if:

206.1. incompetency, act, or omission by the holder of the qualification certificate or the certificate of receipt of application which poses a threat to life or property at sea or to the marine environment, or may pose a direct threat to life or property at sea or to the marine environment has been detected;

206.2. forgery of the qualification certificate has been detected or any of the documents, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued, has been forged;

206.3. it has been detected that corrections or unauthorised entries have been made or false information has been provided in the qualification certificate, certificate of receipt of application or any of the documents, without which the relevant qualification certificate or certificate of receipt of application could not be issued;

206.4. the seafarer has worked on a ship using a qualification certificate, the operation of which has been suspended;

206.5. the operation of the qualification certificate has not been renewed within the time period referred to in Paragraph 204 of this Regulation;

206.6. it has been detected that the seafarer has infringed the restrictions for the use of alcohol or the prohibition of the use of narcotic and psychotropic substances laid down in laws and regulations while on board the ship;

206.7. intentional damaging or negligent storage of the qualification certificate has been detected;

206.8. it has been established that the qualification certificate or the document, without which the relevant qualification certificate could not be issued, has not been registered in the register of the issuing authority indicated therein and the issuing authority does not confirm the issuance thereof.

[8 August 2017]

207. In case of cancellation of an endorsement only the endorsement shall cease to be in effect. The seafarer shall receive a new endorsement after successful passing of the assessment of competency examination.

[19 January 2016]

33. Recognition as Invalid

208. If the qualification certificate is lost, destroyed, or stolen the seafarer shall inform the Latvian Registry of Seamen thereof in writing. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall recognise the qualification certificate as invalid. In case of theft, the seafarer shall additionally submit to the Latvian Registry of Seamen the notice of the law enforcement authority.

[21 November 2018]

209. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall also deem invalid a qualification certificate in case of death of the seafarer and a qualification certificate which has not been submitted by the seafarer to the Latvian Registry of Seamen according to Paragraph 216 of this Regulation.

34. Investigation of a Report

210. In compliance with the requirements of Regulation I/5, paragraphs 1 and 3 of the STCW Convention, and also the requirements of section 7.1 of the STWCW-F Convention the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall investigate a reported incompetency, act or omission, that poses a direct threat to safety of life or property at sea or to the marine environment, or may pose a direct threat to safety of life or property at sea or to the marine environment, if the person continues carrying out of the duties according to the qualification specified in the qualification certificate.

[19 January 2016]

211. If during an investigation of a report a potentially serious lack of competency (for example, causing of emergency situation, inability to carry out the direct service duties, infringement has been committed under the influence of alcohol) is detected, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall initiate an investigation and take a decision to detain or suspend operation of the qualification certificate of the seafarer. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall invite three independent experts that have been included in the list approved by the Minister of Transport referred to in Paragraph 7 of this Regulation.

[8 August 2017]

212. During an investigation the Latvian Registry of Seamen and the invited independent experts shall assess the conformity of the competency of the seafarer with the qualification certificate received thereby and the capacity and draw up a deed of investigation.

213. A representative of the owner of the ship and the seafarer whose case is being reviewed shall be invited to participate in review of the report. Failure to arrive of such persons shall not affect taking of the decision of the Latvian Registry of Seamen in the particular case - renewal of the operation of the qualification certificate or cancellation thereof according to Sub-paragraph 206.1 of this Regulation.

35. Decision to Detain, Suspend the Operation, Renew, Cancel, Recognise as Invalid a Qualification Certificate and Refuse to Issue a Qualification Certificate

214. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall take the decision to renew the operation of the qualification certificate or to cancel it within the time period referred to in Sub-paragraphs 204.1, 204.2, 204.3, 204.4, 204.5, 204.8, and 204.9 of this Regulation, but in Sub-paragraph 204.6 of this Regulation - after setting in of the abovementioned time period.

[21 November 2018]

215. The Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled to notify a decision to detain, suspend the operation, renew the operation, cancel or recognise as invalid a qualification certificate, or a decision to cancel a certificate of receipt of application to the owner of the ship or the operator, on ship of which the seafarer is working, and to merchants which provide recruitment and placement services in manning the ship's crew.

216. A seafarer shall, within 15 days from the date when the decision to cancel a qualification certificate or certificate of receipt of application has entered into effect, hand the qualification certificate or certificate of receipt of application over to the Latvian Registry of Seamen.

217. After a decision to detain, suspend the operation, cancel, or recognise as invalid a qualification certificate has entered into effect, the seafarer does not have the right to hold a relevant capacity or to carry out work duties on a ship on the basis of such document, as well as to use the qualification certificate in any other way.

218. After a decision to cancel a certificate of receipt of application or to cancel an endorsement of the recognition of the foreign certificate of competency has entered into effect, the seafarer does not have the right to hold a relevant capacity on a ship flying the flag of Latvia and to repeatedly apply to endorsement of the recognition of the certificate of competency.

219. The Latvian Registry of Seamen has the right, in the decision to cancel a qualification certificate, to impose a prohibition to the seafarer to apply for the qualifications specified in this Regulation for a time period up to three years.

219.¹ The Latvian Registry of Seamen is entitled not to recognise the seagoing service and to cancel entries of the database if the seagoing service has been obtained unlawfully, working with an invalid qualification certificate or with a qualification certificate the operation of which was suspended, and also if the qualification certificate bears indications of falsification, corrections, or unsanctioned entries.

[22 June 2021]

220. Information regarding the decision to recognise a qualification certificate as invalid shall be published in the official gazette Latvijas Vēstnesis. In the case referred to in Paragraph 208 of this Regulation the publication shall be ensured by the seafarer, but in the case referred to in Paragraph 209 of this Regulation - by the Latvian Registry of Seamen. After publication and receipt of an application of the seafarer if the qualification certificate has not been cancelled, the Latvian Registry of Seamen shall issue a new qualification certificate with new registration number, retaining the term of validity of the previous qualification certificate. Expenditure related to the issuance of a new qualification certificate shall be covered by the seafarer.

221. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall refuse to issue a qualification certificate or certificate of receipt of application if:

221.1. a non-conformity of the documents submitted or presented by the candidate for the qualification certificate or certificate of receipt of application has been detected;

221.2. the requirements referred to in this Regulation for the receipt of the relevant qualification have not been met;

221.3. the non-conformity of the competency of the candidate with the relevant qualification has been indicated in the protocol of the assessment commission or the port assessment commission.

222. The Latvian Registry of Seamen shall enter information regarding detention, suspension of operation, renewal of operation, cancellation or recognition as invalid of a qualification certificate, cancellation of certificate of receipt of application and refusal to issue a qualification certificate or a certificate of receipt of application in the database.

223. The decisions taken by the Latvian Registry of Seamen may be contested in accordance with the procedures laid down in the Administrative Procedure Law, submitting a relevant submission to the Director of the State limited liability company Maritime Administration of Latvia. Decision of the Director of the State limited liability company Maritime Administration of Latvia may be appealed to a court.

[22 June 2021]

Part G. Closing Provisions

224. The secondary vocational education programmes (naval school programmes) completed until the date of coming into force of this Regulation with the qualification to be granted "technician shipsʼ navigator" shall be deemed corresponding to the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code, and the programmes with the qualification to be granted "technician shipsʼ engineer" shall be deemed corresponding to the requirements of section A-III/1 of the STCW Code, if it has not been specified otherwise in the document certifying education.

225. The vocational education programmes completed until the date of coming into force of this Regulation in higher education institutions of merchant fleet with the qualification to be granted "shipsʼ navigator engineer" shall be deemed corresponding to the requirements of section A-II/2 of the STCW Code, and the programmes with the qualification to be granted "shipsʼ mechanic engineer" shall be deemed corresponding to the requirements of section A-III/2 of the STCW Code, if it has not been specified otherwise in the document certifying education.

226. A person who has received a certificate of competency prior to the coming into force of this Regulation and whose vocational education does not conform to that provided for in this Regulation is entitled to receive a revalidation of certificate of competency or an endorsement thereof without additional conditions, if it conforms to the requirements laid down in Paragraphs 104 and 105 of this Regulation.

[19 January 2016]

227. The certificates of competency which have been issued until the time of the coming into force of this Regulation shall be valid until the expiry of the term of validity indicated therein, but if the term of validity has not been indicated, not more than five years from the date of issuance.

228. Ship security officers who have a documentary evidence issued until 1 January 2008 that their qualification conforms to the requirements existing prior to the coming into force of Regulation VI/5 of the STCW Convention, may carry out their functions on a ship until 1 July 2009 without receipt of the certificate of proficiency of a ship security officer.

[10 June 2008]

229. The certificates of competency of the STCW Convention and endorsements, which have been issued after the coming into force of this Regulation and in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention, which were in force until 31 December 2011, shall be valid until the expiry of the term of validity indicated therein, however, not longer than until 31 December 2016.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

230. A seafarer who has received a certificate of competency of the STCW Convention until 1 May 2013 is entitled, until 1 January 2014, to receive a repeated certificate of competency or endorsement, the term of validity of which is not longer than 31 December 2016, without meeting the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraphs 97.³ 1, 97.³ 2 and 97.³ 3 of this Regulation if the seafarer conforms to the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 104 and 105 of this Regulation.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

231. A seafarer who has received a certificate of competency of the STCW Convention, which has been issued in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention which were in force until 31 January 2011, upon receipt of a new endorsement with a term of validity after 31 December 2016, shall concurrently receive a new certificate of competency, meeting the requirements referred to in this Regulation for the receipt of the relevant qualification.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

232. The training programme referred to in Sub-paragraph 97.³ 2 of this Regulation in accordance with the requirements referred to in Annex 9 to this Regulation shall be completed by ships' engineers who by 1 September 2012 have commenced studies in a vocational education programme conforming to the requirements of section A-III/1 or A-III/2 of the STCW Code, or the requirements of section A-III/1 or A-III/2.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

233. The training programme referred to in Sub-paragraph 97.³ 4 of this Regulation in accordance with the requirements referred to in Annex 9 to this Regulation shall be completed by electro-technical officers on ships who have completed a vocational education programme not conforming to the requirements of section A-III/6 of the STCW Code.

[23 April 2013; 8 August 2017]

234. Certificates of Tanker Familiarization Courses, which have been issued in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention which were in force until 31 December 2011, shall be valid for work on ships until receipt of a new qualification certificate, however, not longer than until 31 December 2016.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

235. Certificates of advanced training courses to tankers for work on oil, chemical or gas tankers, which have been issued in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention which were in force until 31 December 2011, shall be valid for work on ships until receipt of a new qualification certificate, however, not longer than until 31 December 2016.

[23 April 2013; 19 January 2016]

236. A person who prior to 1 September 2012 has commenced the completion of an accredited vocational education programme certified by the Ministry of Transport and meeting the requirements of section A-III/1 or A-III/2 of the STCW Code, and is applying for qualification - officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, shall be applied a requirement for the seagoing service until 31 December 2016 at least six months in the composition of the engine department on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more, carrying out watchkeeping duties in the engine-room under the supervision of an officer in charge of an engineering watch, complying with the practice programme and documenting it in the training record book.

[23 April 2013]

237. A person who prior to 1 September 2012 has commenced the an accredited electronics automation engineer or an equivalent programme and is applying for the qualification of an electro-technical officer on ships, shall be applied a requirement regarding seagoing service until 31 December 2016 - at least six months as electro-technical rating or trainee of electro-technical officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more.

[23 April 2013]

238. Training certificates issued in accordance with the requirements of Chapter VI of the STCW Convention which were in force until 31 December 2011 shall not be valid for the purpose of certifying the personnel in accordance with Part C of this Regulation.

[8 August 2017]

239. Paragraph 73.² of this Regulation shall come into force on 1 June 2018.

[8 August 2017 / Paragraph shall come into force on 1 June 2018]

240. Sub-paragraphs 53.1.2, 62.1.2, and 66.1.2 of this Regulation shall come into force on 1 July 2019.

[21 November 2018]

Informative Reference to the European Union Directives

[15 September 2009; 23 April 2013; 22 June 2021]

This Regulation transposes:

1) Directive 2002/84/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 November 2002 amending the Directives on maritime safety and the prevention of pollution from ships;

2) Directive 2005/45/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005 on the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by the Member States and amending Directive 2001/25/EC;

3) Directive 2008/106/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on the minimum level of training of seafarers;

4) Council Directive 92/29/EEC of 31 March 1992 on the minimum safety and health requirements for improved medical treatment on board vessels;

5) Directive 2012/35/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 November 2012 amending Directive 2008/106/EC on the minimum level of training of seafarers;

6) Directive (EU) 2019/1159 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 amending Directive 2008/106/EC on the minimum level of training of seafarers and repealing Directive 2005/45/EC on the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates issued by the Member States;

7) Directive (EU) 2017/2397 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2017 on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation and repealing Council Directives 91/672/EEC and 96/50/EC.

Acting for the Prime Minister -
Minister for the Interior Dz. Jaundžeikars

Minister for Transport A.Šlesers

 

Annex 1
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[21 November 2018]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 2
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[23 April 2013]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 3
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[22 June 2021]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

Annex 4
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Sample of the Application for the Receipt of the Qualification Certificate

[21 November 2018]

 

Annex 5
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[23 April 2013]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 6
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 7
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[23 April 2013]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 8
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[13 November 2007]

Sample of the Assessment Protocol

Annex 9
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Special Competency Requirements According to the Qualification of the Seafarer

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

1. Requirements for receipt of the relevant qualification certificate for mandatory additional training of masters of ships, deck officers, and deck rating personnel.

Table 1

No.

Qualification certificate

Name of the mandatory additional training programmes and section of the STCW Code

Basic safety training (A-VI/1)

Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats (other than fast rescue boats) (A-VI/2)

Advanced Training in fire-fighting (A-VI/3)

Medical first aid (A-VI/4)

Medical care (A-VI/4)

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) general operator (A-IV/2)

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) restricted operator (A-IV/2)

Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting and Use of ARPA at operational level (A-II/1,2,3)

Use of RADAR, ARPA, Bridge Teamwork and Search and Rescue at management level (A-II/1,2,3)

ECDIS (A-II/1, A-II/2)

Bridge resource management (A-II/1, A-II/2)

1.

Master on ships of 3000 GT or more

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

2.

Master on ships of less than 3000 GT

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

3.

Master on ships of less than 3000 GT, in near-coastal voyages

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

4.

Master on ships of less than 500 GT, in near-coastal voyages

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

5.

Master on ships of less than 200 GT, in near-coastal voyages

+

+

+

+

+

+*

6.

Boatmaster on ships of less than 50 GT

+

+

+

7.

Chief mate on ships of 3000 GT or more

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

8.

Chief mate on ships of less than 3000 GT

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

9.

Officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

+

10.

Officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT, in near-coastal voyages

+

+

+

+

+

+

+*

11.

Boatswain

+

+

12.

Able seafarer deck

+

+

13.

Rating forming part of a navigational watch

+

14.

Ship's cook

+

15.

Steward

+

Note. * If a seafarer has not completed the ECDIS training programme and has not received a documentary evidence, an entry "not valid for work on ships equipped with ECDIS" shall be made in the qualification certificate.

2. Requirements for receipt of the relevant qualification certificate for dedicated additional training of masters of ships, deck officers and deck rating personnel.

Table 2

No.	Qualification certificate	Name of the dedicated additional ship training programmes and section of the STCW Code
		Basic training for oil and chemical tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-1)	Basic training for liquefied gas tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-2-1)	Advanced training for oil tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-2)	Advanced training for chemical tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-3)	Advanced training for gas tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-2-2)	Safety training for personnel providing direct service to passenger spaces (A-V/2.2)	Crowd management training (A-V/2.3)	Crisis management and human behaviour training (A-V/2.4)	Passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity training (A-V/2.5)
1.	Master on ships of 3000 GT or more	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
2.	Master on ships of less than 3000 GT	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
3.	Master on ships of less than 3000 GT, in near-coastal voyages	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
4.	Master on ships of less than 500 GT, in near-coastal voyages	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
5.	Master on ships of less than 200 GT, in near-coastal voyages	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
6.	Boatmaster on ships of less than 50 GT						+***	+	+*	+**
7.	Chief mate on ships of 3000 GT and more	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
8.	Chief mate on ships of less than 3000 GT	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
9.	Officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT and more	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
10.	Officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT, in near-coastal voyages	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
11.	Boatswain	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
12.	Able seafarer deck	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
13.	Rating forming part of a navigational watch	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
14.	Ship's cook	+	+				+***	+	+*
15.	Steward	+	+				+***	+	+*
Notes. 1. * If the seafarer is designated on the muster list of having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations. 2. ** If the seafarer is responsible for embarking and disembarking passengers, for loading, discharging or securing cargo, or for closing hull openings on board ro-ro passenger ships. 3. *** If the seafarer has been appointed to providing direct service in passenger spaces.

3. Requirements for receipt of the relevant qualification certificate for mandatory additional training of officers of the engine-room crew and rating personnel of the engine-room crew of ships.

Table 3

No.	Qualification certificate	Name of the mandatory additional training programmes and section of the STCW Code
		Basic safety training (A-VI/1)	Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats (other than fast rescue boats) (A-VI/2)	Training in advanced fire-fighting (A-VI/3)	Medical first aid (A-VI/4)	Competency upgrading course for engineer officers (A-III/1)	Engine-room resource management (A-III/1, A-III/2)	Updating Training for Ship Electro-technical Engineers (A-III/6)
1.	Chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW or more	+	+	+	+		+
2.	Chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power	+	+	+	+		+
3.	Second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power and more	+	+	+	+		+
4.	Second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power	+	+	+	+		+
5.	Officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power and more	+	+	+	+	+*	+
6.	Engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power	+
7.	Refrigeration engineer on ships	+
8.	Electro-technical officer on ships	+	+	+	+			+*
9.	Electro-technical rating	+
10.	Ship's technician	+
11.	Pumpman	+
12.	Able seafarer engine	+
13.	Rating forming part of an engine-room watch	+
14.	Turner, welder, fitter	+

Note. * If the training programme has not been completed within the framework of the educational programme.

4. Requirements for receipt of the relevant qualification certificate for dedicated additional training of officers of the engine-room crew and rating personnel of the engine-room crew of ships of specific type.

Table 4

No.	Qualification certificate	Name of the dedicated additional ship training programmes and section of the STCW Code
		Basic training for oil and chemical tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-1)	Basic training for liquefied gas tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-2-1)	Advanced training for oil tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-2)	Advanced training for chemical tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-1-3)	Advanced training for gas tanker cargo operations (A-V/1-2-2)	Safety training for personnel providing direct service to passenger spaces (A-V/2.2)	Crowd management training (A-V/2.3)	Crisis management and human behaviour training (A-V/2.4)	Passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity training (A-V/2.5)
1.	Chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW or more	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
2.	Chief engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
3.	Second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3000 kW propulsion power and more	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
4.	Second engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3000 kW propulsion power	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+	+
5.	Officer in charge of an engineering watch on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power and more	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
6.	Engineer officer on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 750 kW propulsion power	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
7.	Refrigeration engineer on ships	+	+			+	+***	+	+*	+**
8.	Electro-technical officer on ships	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
9.	Electro-technical rating	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
10.	Ship's technician	+	+				+***	+	+*	+**
11.	Pumpman	+	+	+	+	+	+***	+	+*
12.	Able seafarer engine	+	+				+***	+	+*
13.	Rating forming part of an engine-room watch	+	+				+***	+	+*
14.	Turner, welder, repair fitter	+	+				+***	+	+*

Notes.

1. * If the seafarer is designated on the muster list of having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations.

2. ** If the seafarer is responsible for embarking and disembarking passengers, for loading, discharging or securing cargo, or for closing hull openings on board ro-ro passenger ships.

3. *** If the seafarer has been appointed to providing direct service in passenger spaces.

 

Annex 10
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[23 April 2013]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 11
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[19 January 2016; 21 November 2018]

Sample Certificate of Receipt of Application

LATVIJAS REPUBLIKA
REPUBLIC OF LATVIA
Mazais Latvijas valsts ģerbonis

IZZIŅA PAR IESNIEGUMA PIEŅEMŠANU CERTIFICATE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION				Nr._______
UZVĀRDS SURNAME		VĀRDS NAME
DZIMŠANAS DATUMS (D.M.G.) DATE OF BIRTH (D.M.Y.)		PILSONĪBA CITIZENSHIP
IZZIŅAS ĪPAŠNIEKA PARAKSTS SIGNATURE OF THE HOLDER OF CERTIFICATE		IZZIŅAS ĪPAŠNIEKA ADRESE HOLDER'S PERMANENT ADDRESS
Šī izziņa apliecina, ka minētā persona, kurai ir _____________________1 valdības vārdā izdots STCW/STCW-F2 konvencijai atbilstošs ___________ sertifikāts3 Nr. _____, iesniedza Latvijas Jūras administrācijai dokumentus ārvalsts sertifikāta3 atzīšanai atbilstoši STCW konvencijas I/10 noteikuma/STCW-F konvencijas I/7 noteikuma2 prasībām. Šīs izziņas īpašnieks ir tiesīgs ieņemt amatu uz Latvijas karoga kuģiem atbilstoši viņa sertifikātam3 uz laiku līdz 3 (trim) mēnešiem, sākot ar šīs izziņas izsniegšanas datumu. It is hereby certified that the above person, who holds STCW/STCW-F2 Convention Certificate3 No. _______ as ____________ issued on behalf of Government of ___________1 has submitted documents to the authorities of the Republic of Latvia for the recognition of a foreign certificate3 in accordance with the provisions of regulation I/10 of STCW Convention/ the provisions of regulation I/7 of STCW-F Convention. The lawful holder of this certificate may serve on the Latvian flag vessels in a capacity as defined in his certificate3 for a period not exceeding 3 (three) months from the date of issue of this certificate.
Iesniegtie dokumenti: 1. Iesniegums 2. Personu apliecinošs dokuments 3. Kompetences sertifikāts un apstiprinājums 4. Prasmju sertifikāts (ja tāds ir), izsniegts saskaņā ar STCW V/1-1 vai V/1-2 noteikumu 5. Viena fotogrāfija 3,5 x 4,5 cm vai personas sejas digitālais attēls 6. Atzinums par jūrnieka veselības atbilstību 7. Apstiprinājuma samaksas kvīts	Documentation presented: 1. Application form 2. Identification document 3. Certificate of competency & endorsement 4. Certificate of proficiency (if applicable), issued according to STCW regulation V/1-1 or V/1-2 5. One photography 3.5x4.5 cm or personʼs face digital image 6. Medical fitness certificate 7. Payment confirmation receipt
Izsniegšanas vieta un datums: Place and date of issue	Izsniedzējiestāde un pilnvarotas personas paraksts: Issuing authority and signature of duly authorized person
			Zīmogs/Official seal
Riga, Registry of Seamen   Izziņas derīguma termiņš Date of expiry of certificate paraksts/signature paraksta atšifrējums/ name of duly authorized official
LATVIJAS JŪRNIEKU REĢISTRS/LATVIAN REGISTRY OF SEAMEN: Katrīnas iela 2a, Rīga LV-1045, Latvija tālrunis/phone +371 67099419, fakss/fax +371 67323100 e-pasts/e-mail: jr@lja.lv; verify@lja.lv

Notes.

¹ Norāda valsti/indicate the country.

² Izvēlas atbilstošo konvenciju, saskaņā ar kuru izdots kompetences sertifikāts vai prasmju sertifikāts/choose Convention according to which certificate of competency or certificate of proficiency has been issued.

³ Kompetences sertifikāts vai prasmju sertifikāts/certificate of competency or certificate of proficiency.

Annex 12
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[19 January 2016]

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 13
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Minister for Transport A. Šlesers

 

Annex 14
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[8 August 2017]

Minister for Transport A.Šlesers

 

Annex 15
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

[21 November 2018; 22 June 2021]

Sample Application for the Receipt of the Endorsement of Recognition of the Qualification Certificate

Latvijas Jūras administrācijas Jūrnieku reģistram
Maritime Administration of Latvia, Registry of Seamen

Iesniegums kvalifikācijas sertifikāta atzīšanas apstiprinājuma saņemšanai
Application for an Endorsement Attesting the Recognition of a Certificate

Ziņas par pretendentu Candidate's information	Vārds Name	Uzvārds Surname
	Jūrnieka grāmatiņas numurs Seaman's book No.	Dzimšanas datums Date of birth
	Dzīvesvietas adrese, tālruņa numurs Home address, phone number

Lūdzu izsniegt kompetences sertifikāta vai prasmju sertifikāta, kurš izsniegts
I hereby apply for Endorsement attesting the recognition of a certificate issued by

	, atzīšanas apstiprinājumu
(izdevējvalsts/issuing State)
(kompetences sertifikātā vai prasmju sertifikātā norādītā kvalifikācija/ capacity of the certificate of competency or the certificate of proficiency)

Pievienoju šādus dokumentus vai to kopijas:
The following documents or their copies are enclosed:

Nr. p. k.	Dokuments/Document	Dokumenta reģistrācijas numurs/ No. of document	Kopija/ Copy - K Oriģināls/ Original - O
1.	Personu apliecinošs dokuments/Personal Identity document		K
2.	Kompetences sertifikāts un apstiprinājums/Certificate of Competency and Endorsement		K
3.	Prasmju sertifikāts, izsniegts saskaņā ar STCW not. V/1-1 un V/1-2 (ja tāds ir)/ Certificate of Proficiency, issued according to STCW reg. V/1-1 and V/1-2 (if applicable)		K
4.	Jūrnieka medicīniskais sertifikāts/Seafarer's Medical Certificate		K
5.	Viena fotogrāfija (3,5 x 4,5 cm) vai pretendenta sejas digitālais attēls/ One photo (3,5 x 4,5 cm) or face digital image
6.	Citi dokumenti/Other documents

Nepatiesu ziņu sniegšanas gadījumā paredzēta atbildība saskaņā ar Latvijas Republikas normatīvajiem aktiem. In case of untruthful information the responsibility is provided by the laws and regulations of the Republic of Latvia. Latvijas Jūras administrācijas Jūrnieku reģistrs, pārbaudot pretendenta dokumentu autentiskumu un derīgumu, pieprasa informāciju dokumentu izdevējiestādēm un citu valstu kompetentajām iestādēm, izmantojot elektronisko pastu. The Registry of Seamen of the Maritime Administration of Latvia verifying the authenticity and validity of candidate's documents, requests information from the issuing authorities of documents and competent authorities of other countries via electronic mail.

Pretendents vai kuģa īpašnieka pārstāvis ar savu parakstu apliecina, ka ārvalstī sertificēts kuģa kapteinis, vecākais stūrmanis, vecākais mehāniķis, kā arī otrais mehāniķis, kurš pretendē uz kompetences sertifikāta atzīšanas apstiprinājuma saņemšanu, pārzina Latvijas Republikas tiesību normas jūrniecības nozarē.

By signing this application, the candidate or the ship-owner's representative confirms that the ship's master, chief officer, chief engineer officer and second engineer officer certified abroad (in a foreign country) and applying for the issue of Endorsement attesting the recognition of a certificate of competency has a good knowledge of maritime legislation norms of the Republic of Latvia.

Iesniegšanas datums*/ Date of application		Pretendenta vai kuģa īpašnieka pārstāvja vārds, uzvārds un paraksts*/ Name, surname and signature of the candidate or the ship-owner's representative

Piezīme. * Dokumenta rekvizītus "iesniegšanas datums" un "paraksts" neaizpilda, ja elektroniskais dokuments ir sagatavots atbilstoši normatīvajiem aktiem par elektronisko dokumentu noformēšanu.

Note: * the document particulars 'date of application' and 'signature' shall not be completed, if the electronic document has been drawn up in accordance with the laws and regulations regarding the drawing up of electronic documents.

Latvijas Jūrnieku reģistra ieraksti For remarks of personnel of Latvian Registry of Seamen

Endorsement of recognition issued No.

Date of issuance

Term of validity

Inspector of the certification division
	(signature)		(given name, surname)

Date

No.

Statement: date

No.

 

Annex 16
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Instructions Regarding Photographs for Drawing up of Qualification Certificates

[21 November 2018]

 

Annex 17
Cabinet Regulation No. 895
22 November 2005

Sample Certificate of Proficiency

[19 January 2016]

---

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