Bahamas: notice on the validation of discharge certificates

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has issued an information notice about the validation of discharge certificates.

Purpose

This Information Notice is provided by the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) to advise all parties of the process for validation of Bahamas issued Discharge Certificates.

Application

Applies to sea time on board Bahamas flagged vessels.

Validation of sea time services (Seafarer)

Standard – 30 business days – 60EUR each certificate or entry
In-office of (The Bahamas Maritime Authority and The Bahamas High Commission London) – 125EUR plus 60EUR each certificate or entry
Fast Track – 5 business days – 250EUR plus 60EUR each certificate or entry

Validation of sea time process

Step 1 – Emailing The Bahamas Maritime Authority

Step 2 – Receiving the Confirmation email

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the fastest service? The five (5) business days service, which costs an additional 250EUR.
When should I receive my documents? It can take up to thirty (30) business days/6 weeks from the date documents are received at our office but may be returned sooner. Seafarers should note this timescale includes the documents being signed by The BMA and Diplomatic Office.
Will I obtain confirmation that my documents are in process? No, you will not. Seafarers should use a postal service that tracks and confirms delivery of their documents to our office. Once you have received your payment receipt by email and your courier has confirmed delivery, this is confirmation that the process of your certificates has started.
It has been 5 weeks since I have received my receipt by email but have not received documents. Email dsc@bahamasmaritime.com for an update.
I will be in London and will like to use the ‘In Office’ service? You should visit The Bahamas Maritime Authority office first, to have your documents stamped and signed by a member of the STCW Department Contacts & Locations - Bahamas Maritime Authority. The date and time that you will be visiting our office should be confirmed by email at dsc@bahamasmaritime.com. The certificates must also be stamped and signed by a Diplomatic Officer at The Bahamas High Commission London Office. The Bahamas High Commission London Office should be contacted directly to confirm if a Diplomatic Officer is available for counter stamping and signing.
Is there an additional fee to return my documents? No, there is not.
Do I need to send original documents? Yes and no other documents.
What should I do if my documents have been lost in transit to The Bahamas Maritime Authority? The high definition professional quality scanned copies submitted will be similar to the original documents and can be used for processing or alternatively, you can advise if you would prefer to organize another set of documents from your Employer.
Can I pay in cash? Only in person at our office.
Can I use the fast track service if you have my documents but they are unexpectedly needed quickly? Yes, you can. An email should be sent to dsc@bahamasmaritime.com.
How will my documents be returned? By courier service.
Can I track my documents being returned? Only using the five business days fast track service.

Validation of sea time services (Corporate Clients)

High definition professional quality scanned copy of discharge certificate, pdf file.
Subject Line to read – Val DC (STANDARD/OFFICE/FAST TRACK)
In the body of the email the draw down account number to be debited.

This notice was issued on 21 June 2023.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):