Apostille for STCW Certificates

"Do all STCW certificates need to be apostilled?"

"Not all STCW certificates require apostilles for every purpose. However, most foreign flag states and port state control authorities require apostilled STCW certificates for crew working on internationally flagged vessels. We advise on the specific requirements for your flag state."

"Who issues and apostilles STCW certificates in the U.S.?"

"STCW certificates in the U.S. are issued by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and approved training providers. USCG-issued certificates are federal documents apostilled by the U.S. Department of State. Training provider certificates may be apostilled by the state secretary of state."

"Can I apostille STCW certificates issued by a private training center?"

"Yes. STCW certificates issued by USCG-approved training centers are notarized and then apostilled by the Secretary of State of the state where the training center is located. If the training center is in Florida, we can apostille same-day."

"How long are apostilled STCW certificates valid?"

"The apostille itself does not expire, but STCW certificates have their own validity periods (typically 5 years for most endorsements). You should apostille a currently valid certificate. We recommend checking your certificate expiry dates before starting the apostille process."