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Declaration of unfitness

  • A seafarer's doctor's statement that you do not meet the requirements of a medical certificate during the medical examination. If you are medically unfit, the seafarer's doctor shall issue a declaration of unfitness. What kind depends on your health condition.

    Permanent declaration of unfitness
    If the seafarer's doctor finds it unlikely that your health will improve within two years, a permanent declaration of unfitness shall be issued.

    Temporary declaration of unfitness
    If you within two years will meet the requirements of a medical certificate, the seafarer's doctor issues a temporary declaration of unfitness.

    Provisional declaration of unfitness
    If the seafarer's doctor, without performing a medical examination, is made aware that there is every probability that you no longer satisfies the requirements for a medical certificate, a provisional declaration of unfitness shall be issued.

    In such case, the seafarer's doctor shall inform you, the shipping company and/or the master about the decision of a provisional declaration of unfitness. The decision stands until a new decision has been made.

  • None of the declarations of unfitness have an expiry date. This implies, that they are valid until a new medical certificate or declaration of unfitness has been made.

  • Upon receiving a declaration of unfitness, you are entitle to apply for exemption from health requirements and/or appeal the seafarer's doctor's decision.

    Here you will find further details.