Do I need to speak and understand English to apply? Yes, it is essential to understand and to be able to communicate in the English language. English is the official language in the maritime industry.
After passing the interview, what requirements do I need to be able to embark?
STCW courses and certifications
Seaman's Book
Medical exams
Vaccinations
C1/D visa
Ministry of Labor certificate to work abroad.
What does STCW stand for? Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping.
What are the STCW courses in Guatemala?
Basic First Aid Training
Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
Personal Safety and Social Responsibility
Personal Survival Techniques
Crowd Management
Proficiency in Crisis Management and Human Behavior
Security Awareness
Fast Rescue Boats
Who can provide the STCW training in Guatemala? The only entity authorized to provide the STCW courses in Guatemala is the Naval School of Guatemala (Escuela Naval de Guatemala).
What is the cost of the STCW courses? The eight courses listed above have an approximate cost of Q1,800.00.
To whom do I pay the STCW course fees? The fees are paid to the Naval School of Guatemala.
How many years are the STCW certificates and Seaman´s book valid for? The STCW certificates and the Seaman´s book are valid for 5 years.
How much time is needed to complete the STCW training courses? The training is from Monday to Friday and it takes three weeks to complete all eight courses. The courses are conducted in person only.
How do I get the STCW certifications and the Seaman's Book? After satisfactorily completing the STCW courses you must request the corresponding certifications and the Seaman´s book at DIGEMAR (Dirección General de Asuntos Marítimos).
Do I have to pay for the STCW certifications and the Seaman´s Book? Yes. The cost for each STCW course certification is Q50.00 and for the Seaman´s book it is Q300.00. You will also be required to obtain a medical certificate at a cost of Q100.00. The above fees must be paid to DIGEMAR.
What is a Seaman's Book? The Seaman´s Book is the official/legal record of the seaman's career experience and certifications. Every seafarer must carry this document while working on board a vessel.
Where can I get the medical exams done? The Maritime Department has generated a list of approved doctors. Embárcate Guate can guide you in selecting a doctor that has been approved by the Maritime Department and the cruise line you are applying to.
What are the costs of the medical exams and who pays for them? The costs will vary depending on the doctor you select and are paid directly to the doctor at the time of service. Each individual seafarer is responsible for paying the costs for their medical exams.
What is a C1/D visa? A C1 visa is a transit visa. A crewmember (D) visa is a nonimmigrant visa for a person working on board commercial sea vessels or international airlines in the United States, providing services required for normal operation and intending to depart the United States on the same vessel or any other vessel within 29 days. The C1/D crewmember visa is a combination nonimmigrant visa for persons desiring to travel the United States to join a vessel or aircraft they will work on.
Where do I get the C1/D visa in Guatemala? You apply for the C1/D visa at the United States Embassy in Guatemala.
How much does the C1/D visa cost? The C1/D visa costs $160.00.
What is the Ministry of Labor certificate? It is a certificate given by the Ministry of Labor that enables you to travel to work abroad.
How can I get the Ministry of Labor certificate? If you are applying through a recruiter, the recruiter has to request the certificate from the Ministry of Labor on your behalf.
Do I really need the Ministry of Labor certificate? Yes. It is a requirement for you to exit the country to work abroad.
How long is a contract with MSC? A contract usually lasts 7 to 9 months.
Who pays for food and lodging while I am working on board? The cruise line provides food and lodging for the crewmember during their time on board the vessel.