When a shipping company like Anglo Eastern or Synergy Marine calls you for an interview, or you land that coveted spot with Fleet Management or MOL, the first thing they'll ask for, after your basic details, is your INDoS number. Without it, your journey as an Indian seafarer simply cannot begin. It's not just a formality; it's your official identity in the Indian maritime system, a crucial prerequisite for everything from pre-sea training to your Certificate of Competency (COC) and Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
This article will guide you through the process of obtaining your INDoS (Indian National Database of Seafarers) number, ensuring you're well-prepared for your career at sea.
What is an INDoS Number and Why is it Essential?
The INDoS number is an eight-character alphanumeric unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, to every Indian seafarer. It's a permanent identifier, much like your Aadhaar or PAN, but specifically for your maritime career.
The primary objective of INDoS is to maintain a computerized national database of seafarers. This database serves as a quick reference for statutory authorities such as flag states, port states, and immigration, as well as for employers of seafarers. It stores verified identity details, including your name, photograph, signature, qualifications, and employment history, playing a crucial role in preventing the use of fraudulent certificates at sea.
Your INDoS number is mandatory for:
* Admission to all DGS-approved pre-sea and modular courses.
* Applying for your Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
* Appearing for Certificate of Competency (COC) examinations.
* Updating your seafarer profile on the DGS e-governance portal.
* Any official interaction with the DGS or Mercantile Marine Departments (MMDs).
Without an INDoS number, you simply cannot progress in your maritime career in India.
Eligibility and Prerequisites for INDoS Application
To be eligible for an INDoS number, you must be an Indian national with a valid Indian passport. While there isn't a strict minimum age for the INDoS itself, it's typically obtained when you enroll in a DGS-approved pre-sea training course.
Here's a breakdown of the general prerequisites and documents you'll need:
1. Valid Indian Passport: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your passport is valid and that all names and dates match across your other documents.
2. 10th Class Pass Certificate/Marksheet: This is generally required, unless specifically exempted by a DGS Circular.
3. Passport-sized Photograph: A recent, clear passport-sized photograph with a white background is essential. Ensure your face is clearly visible (70% face coverage) and you are wearing a formal shirt.
4. Scanned Signature: A clear scan of your signature.
5. Proof of Address: Documents like your Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving license, or electricity bill can serve as address proof.
6. Medical Fitness Certificate (Optional for initial INDoS, but mandatory for courses/CDC): While not strictly required for the initial INDoS application, you will need a medical fitness certificate from a DGS-approved doctor for any subsequent DGS-approved courses and for your CDC application. It's good practice to be aware of this.
It's crucial to have all these documents ready in scanned format (JPG, JPEG, or PDF as specified) before you begin the application process.
The Step-by-Step Application Process (Via Maritime Training Institutes)
As of 2025, the process for obtaining an INDoS number for fresh seafarers is primarily facilitated through DGS-approved Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs). You cannot directly apply for an INDoS number as an individual without enrolling in a course at an MTI.
Here's the typical procedure:
1. Enroll in a DGS-Approved Maritime Training Institute (MTI): This is the first and most critical step. When you register for admission to a pre-sea course (like DNS, GME, GP Rating, or any Basic STCW course), the MTI will assist you with your INDoS application.
2. Online Registration and Reference Number Generation: The MTI will guide you through the initial online registration on the DGS e-governance portal ([dgshipping.gov.in](https://dgshipping.gov.in)). During this process, a Reference Number will be generated, which is valid for three months. You must seek admission to an MTI within this period.
3. Physical Presence and Document Verification at MTI: You must be physically present at the MTI with all your original documents (passport, 10th mark sheet, photograph, signature). The MTI staff will verify the accuracy of your data against your original documents.
4. Document Upload and Application Submission: The MTI will then upload scanned copies of your verified documents (passport, 10th mark sheet, photograph, signature) to the DGS e-governance system.
5. Fee Payment: While there is no registration fee for admission to an MTI, a fee is applicable for INDoS processing as per DGS norms. The MTI will facilitate the online payment of this fee directly on the DGS payment portal. Always verify the current fee structure on the DGS website or with your MTI. (As of recent information, the fee for an Indian seafarer's INDoS application is around INR 500, but some MTIs might charge a processing fee on top of this. For instance, some MTIs have mentioned charges around INR 2000 for INDoS processing if not combined with specific courses.)
6. INDoS Number Generation: Once the application is successfully submitted and the payment is processed, your unique INDoS number will be generated. It is typically displayed instantly and sent to your registered email ID and mobile number via SMS. The processing time is generally quick if all documents are correct.
Specific Indian Detail: When your documents are verified, the MTI acts as the initial point of contact, and the data is ultimately processed and maintained by the Directorate General of Shipping, with oversight from various Mercantile Marine Departments (MMDs) located in cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, and Visakhapatnam.
Post-INDoS: What's Next and How to Maintain Your Profile
Once you have your INDoS number, it becomes your permanent identity in the Indian maritime sector. It's crucial to understand how to manage and maintain your INDoS profile.
* Seafarer Profile Registration: After receiving your INDoS number, you can register on the DGS e-governance system using your INDoS number as your User ID to create a password. This allows you to access and manage your profile.
* Linking to Certificates: Your INDoS number will be linked to all your DGS-approved certificates, including your CDC, COC, and course completion certificates. This centralized system ensures the authenticity of your qualifications.
* Updating Passport Details: If you get a new passport, it is mandatory to update your passport details in your DGS seafarer profile. You can do this by logging into the DGS portal, navigating to the "Upload Documents" section, and updating your passport number, issue date, validity, and place of issue, along with uploading a scanned copy of your new passport. This is critical for immigration checks when joining a vessel.
* Updating Photo and Signature: You can also update your photograph and signature in your INDoS profile through the DGS portal. This often involves a live webcam verification and uploading multiple photos to ensure facial recognition accuracy.
* Corrections in Personal Details: In case of any discrepancies or errors in your personal details (name, date of birth, address), you can request corrections through the "Request for Corrections in Personal Details Profile" section under the Seafarer module on the DGS e-governance portal. You will need to enter the correct "New Value" and upload supporting documents like your passport, 10th mark sheet, or birth certificate.
* Password Retrieval: If you forget your password, you can use the "Forget Password" utility on the DGS e-governance portal. You'll need your INDoS number and registered email ID.
Shipping companies like Anglo Eastern, Synergy Marine, Wallem, Bernhard Schulte, Fleet Management, and MOL rely on the DGS database and your INDoS number for verification of your credentials and sea service, making it an indispensable part of your professional life at sea.
Your Next Step
Your INDoS number is the cornerstone of your maritime career in India. Ensure you obtain it correctly and keep your profile updated. This foundational step will pave the way for all your future certifications and employment opportunities.
As you navigate your career, remember that Sailrnetwork.com is here to support you. Utilize our tools to stay ahead:
* SailrAI: Get instant, accurate answers to your maritime queries.
* Exam Prep Module: Prepare effectively for your COC exams, building on the foundation of your INDoS.
* CII Calculator: Stay informed about crucial industry regulations like the Carbon Intensity Indicator.
* SailrQ: Connect with fellow seafarers, share experiences, and gain insights from the community.
Always verify current requirements and procedures at [dgshipping.gov.in](https://dgshipping.gov.in)