Seafarers Identity Document: What is SID, How and why to get it?
Being a seafarer, you must have heard of the Seafarers Identity Document (SID). It is sort of an ID card that confirms that you are a genuine seafarer. But what is the Seafarers Identity Document, how is it made & what are its benefits? In this article, we will answer these questions and guide you through the step-by-step process to apply for SID in India. The entire process can be completed successfully by you and doesn't require any external help. Of course, on the condition that you must have the required documents with you.
What is the Seafarers Identity Document and Why do you need it?
The SID is a stand-alone identity document that is issued by the government of India. The SID contains information like your personal details, as well as your qualifications, such as your certifications and training courses completed. The document also includes a photograph and a unique identification number to ensure your identity can be verified. Check the image of the SID card issued by the government of India below. Technically it is Aadhaar Card for seafarers. You do not require any other document if you show your SID since all your information is stored in this card.
The SID is not a travel document, but it can help you to facilitate your shore leaves, transit, transfer, and repatriation to and from a foreign country. The SID can also prove your eligibility for certain rights and benefits under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), such as health care and welfare benefits that are entitled to a seafarer only.
How is the Seafarers Identity Document made and what are the requirements?
The Seafarers Identity Document is made using biometric technology, which means that it uses your your fingerprints, iris, or facial features like a mark on the face/body (eg; cut mark below the right eye), to identify you. The facial/body marks need to be filled up in the form online and will be verified at the center. The biometric data is encrypted and protected by a security code, stored in a chip embedded in the card, and can be accessed by a special reader. The encryption is done so that only authorized parties can access it.
To apply for a Seafarers Identity Document (SID), the following are the minimum requirements for you:
1. You must be a citizen or a resident of India.
2. You must have a valid Indian passport and a Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
3. You must have an INDOS number.
4. You must have an E-mail ID & an Indian mobile number.
How to apply online?
The process of applying for an SID online in India is really hassle free. Just follow the below steps:
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