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: 

1. Visit the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) official website for SID. 

Note: Visit it ONLY on Mozilla or on any older version of Internet Explorer.

2. Log in with your INDOS number & password. This password is the same as your INDOS password for your DGS profile.

 3. Click “Apply for SID” & check your personal details in the form. If there are any errors or changes, you can edit them by clicking on “Edit Profile”.

 4. Fill in your address details, other details, and emergency contact details. Make sure you enter the correct information, as it will be printed on your SID.

5. Make the payment of Rs. 500 through the e-payment portal. You can pay by credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI. You will receive a receipt of payment by email and SMS. 

6. Submit your application and schedule an appointment. You can choose the collection centre, date, and time from the available slots. You will receive a confirmation of your appointment by email and SMS. 

7. Visit the collection centre at the appointed date and time. Bring the printout of the acknowledgment report, original passport, original CDC, and the copy of the payment receipt for verification. The data capturing personnel will examine your documents, return them to you, and capture your biometric data, such as your photograph and fingerprints.

8. Wait for the verification and issuance of your SID. Your application will be transmitted online to the verification officer, who will check your application and approve or reject it. You will receive a notification of the verification result by email within 10 days of submission. If your application is approved, your Seafarers Identity Document will be issued and printed. It will be dispatched to you by speed post within two working days.

Also Read : MUI: How to Join the Maritime Union of India

Advantages of having a Seafarers Identity Document

Having a Seafarers Identity Document will have multiple advantages as a seafarer, such as:

1. You can enjoy facilitated shore leave, transit, transfer and repatriation to and from foreign countries as the SID is recognized by many countries as a valid identity document for seafarers. 

2.  You can prove your eligibility for certain rights and benefits under the MLC, such health care, and welfare, as the SID confirms your status as a genuine seafarer.

3.  The SID prevents identity theft, fraud, and terrorism, as the biometric data can verify your identity and prevent impersonation.

Check out this video on How to apply for SID?

 Conclusion: Should you apply for an SID in India?  

 The Seafarers Identity Document is a valuable identity document for seafarers, as it can facilitate your shore leaves and much more, prove your eligibility for rights and benefits, enhance your security and safety. Therefore, if you are a mariner, you should definitely apply for an SID online, as it can make your life easier and better. To apply for an SID, you just need to visit the DGS website, log in to the SID portal, fill in the application form, make the payment, schedule an appointment, visit the collection center, and wait for the verification and issuance of your SID. The whole process is simple and convenient as is described above, and you can get your SID within a few days. Many thanks for reading this through and do let us know your thoughts about the entire SID process and if we got something wrong or we missed anything.