Seafarer Medical Requirements in South Africa
In South Africa, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is responsible for seafarer certification. Medical fitness examinations are performed by medical practitioners approved by SAMSA.
This record has not yet been fully checked against the official source. Requirements change — always confirm with the maritime authority before your examination.
Applicable standards
South African merchant shipping regulations implementing MLC, 2006 and STCW set seafarer medical requirements. Check SAMSA for current standards.
Examination information
The examination must be carried out by a SAMSA-approved medical practitioner.
Approved / authorized medical examiners
Confirm a practitioner's current approval with SAMSA before booking.
Medical certificate
International minimums (MLC, 2006 Standard A1.2 and STCW Regulation I/9) cap medical certificates at two years (one year for seafarers under 18) and colour-vision certification at six years. National rules may be stricter.
Vision
See SAMSA requirements for eyesight and colour vision.
Hearing
See SAMSA requirements for hearing.
Renewal
Renew with a SAMSA-approved practitioner before expiry.
Sources
- South African Maritime Safety Authority — SAMSA (official website) (opens in a new tab)
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