Sources last checked 2026-11-05. This guide explains published requirements and is not legal advice; NIMASA’s current instructions always come first.
Your rights under the Convention
- A safe and secure workplace that meets safety standards
- Fair terms of employment
- Decent working and living conditions on board
- Health protection, medical care, welfare and social protection
Your employment agreement
Every seafarer must have a signed seafarer employment agreement setting out the terms of the job (MLC 2006, Regulation 2.1). Read it before you sign, and keep a copy.
Certificates the ship must carry
Under Article V of the Convention, a ship that flies the flag of a country that has ratified it must carry a Maritime Labour Certificate and a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance. Ships can be inspected by the flag State, and by other countries when they are in port.
Who counts as the shipowner
The Convention treats the manager, agent or bareboat charterer who has taken over responsibility for operating the ship as the shipowner. That is the company responsible for your conditions on board.
Complaints
If your rights are not respected, raise it on board first, then with NIMASA. NIMASA’s Maritime Labour Convention page is the place to start.