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Panama maritime flag representing vessel registration and COC endorsement

Belize Flag Seafarer Services

Panama Maritime Authority Endorsements via Global Consulates

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The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) issues seafarer endorsements and Seaman Books through its extensive network of consulates around the world. Every application is first issued a Certified Receipt of Application (CRA), which is valid for 90 days, allowing seafarers to work while awaiting full-term documents.

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TIRM is a trusted facilitator of Panama flag documentation. All applications should be submitted by email to 👉 panama@tirm.me, along with a signed company letter outlining the job details for which the documentation is being requested.

Panama Endorsement Processing Time

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Panama full-term endorsements are valid for 5 years and typically take 3–4 weeks to be issued. The process is consistent and reliable, with the CRA provided shortly after submission, ensuring minimal delays for deployment.

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We recommend submitting a complete application pack, including all supporting documents and the required company letter, to prevent any hold-ups.

Panama Officer Endorsement Requirements​

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To apply for a Panama officer endorsement, please include:

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  • Recent colour passport-sized photo

  • Valid passport copy

  • Company letter stating the purpose of the application

  • Completed Panama Medical Form (see Application Form page)

  • Certificate of Competency (COC)

  • Supporting STCW certificates

  • Copy of CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate)

Panama Rating Application Requirements

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Applicants for rating endorsements or Watchkeeping roles must provide:

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  • Recent colour passport-sized photo

  • Valid passport copy

  • Company letter stating vessel and job details

  • Completed Panama Medical Form

  • Certificate of Competency (COC), if applicable

  • Supporting STCW certificates

  • Copy of CDC

Not Sure Where to Start?

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For a more detailed breakdown of requirements by rank, vessel type, or endorsement type, please get in touch or download our guidance pack from the Seafarers General Requirements section.

Panama Flag

The Panama Maritime Authority operates via their consulates spread around the world. Each endorsement or seaman book application is issued a CRA (certified receipt of application) valid for 90 days. The processing time to obtain the 5 year full term is normally 3-4 weeks and is quite reliable. 

As usual we accept applications via email to panama@tirm.me and request that you attach a company letter with the application requesting the specifics of the job. 

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The general requirements for officer endorsements are as follows:

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  • Colour photo

  • Valid passport copy

  • Company letter

  • Panama Medical form (see application form page)

  • Certificate of Competency (COC)

  • Any supporting STCW certificates and copy of CDC

The general requirements for rating applications are as follows:

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  • Colour photo

  • Valid passport copy

  • Company letter

  • Panama Medical form (see application form page)

  • Certificate of Competency (COC) (in the case of Watchkeeping holders)

  • Any supporting STCW certificates and copy of CDC

As usual for a more detailed view of requirements for various ranks please contact us and download a copy of our Seafarers General Requirements, thank you.

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