Dutch Seafarer’s Passport for Ukrainians
The Dutch Seafarer’s Passport, also known as the “Monsterboekje” or “Seaman’s Discharge Book,” is a document designed to record a seafarer’s work and training history. This document is mandatory for all seafarers working on vessels under the flag of the Netherlands. However, since the Netherlands has not ratified ILO Conventions C108 and C185, this document is not recognized internationally as an identity document.
It is primarily used for tracking the work and training of the seafarer, rather than for identification purposes.
Requirements for Obtaining a Dutch Seafarer’s Passport
To obtain a Dutch Seafarer’s Passport, you must work on a vessel under the Dutch flag or on a vessel owned by a Dutch shipowner and provide the following documents:
- A copy of a valid identity document (passport or both sides of an ID card).
- A recent color passport-sized photo.
- A signed statement from the employer (dated within the last 2 months), confirming the need for the “Monsterboekje” for employment. The statement should include the seafarer’s position and the vessel’s details (name and IMO number).
Cost and Process for Obtaining the Dutch Seafarer’s Passport
The cost for processing the “Monsterboekje” is €111.32, and it is valid for 10 years. The processing time takes about five business days after submitting a complete application and payment.
More detailed information can be found on the Kiwa Register website.
Document Delivery
After completion and payment, the Dutch Seafarer’s Passport will be mailed to the provided address. Delivery typically takes five business days. Expedited services are available for an additional fee to receive the document more quickly. In some cases, services like Crewsupport can arrange direct delivery to an airport or another convenient location.
The Dutch “Monsterboekje” is a mandatory document for all seafarers working on vessels under the Dutch flag, requiring adherence to specific procedures and document submission, despite its limited international recognition.
There are many online offers for remote processing of the Dutch Seafarer’s Passport. However, it is important to understand that this document has a specific purpose and is not considered a full identity document internationally. Before ordering such a document, it is essential to review its use and limitations to avoid misunderstandings and misuse.
According to the latest reports, there are disruptions in the availability of Dutch seafarer passport forms due to increased demand.
There are also reports that Ukrainian seafarers use the company https://www.nscc.lt/ for remote processing of a Dutch seafarer’s passport.
There is information suggesting that if a Ukrainian seafarer has a Dutch seafarer’s passport, they may be denied a crew change or disembarkation at a Chinese port if their Ukrainian seafarer’s passport is expired or missing. This requirement is explained by local regulations and international agreements governing maritime transportation and seafarer employment.
Ukrainians can officially obtain a seafarer’s passport in Poland.