Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD on standards for maritime pilot training; issuance, revocation of professional certificates for maritime pilots and certificates of pilotage areas.

CIRCULAR

Regulations on standards for maritime pilot training; issuance and revocation of certificates of competency for maritime pilots and certificates of areas of operation for maritime pilots

On the basis of The Maritime Code of Vietnam dated November 25, 2015;

Decree No. Decree No. 33/2025/NĐ-CP dated February 25, 2025 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, authorities, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Construction;

At the proposal of the Director of the Department of Transport and Traffic Safety and the Director of the Vietnam Marine and Inland Waterway Administration,

The Minister of Construction issues this Circular to regulate standards for maritime pilot training; issuance and revocation of certificates of competency for maritime pilots and certificates of areas of operation for maritime pilots.

PART I
GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation and Applicability

1. This Circular regulates standards for maritime pilot training; issuance and revocation of certificates of competency for maritime pilots and certificates of areas of operation for maritime pilots.

2. This Circular applies to maritime pilots, ship captains, maritime pilot organizations, ship owners, and agencies, organizations, and individuals related to the use, training, issuance, and revocation of certificates of competency for maritime pilots and certificates of areas of operation for maritime pilots.

Article 2. Interpretation of Terms

1. Safe vessel maneuvering is the act of maritime pilots and ship captains performing their responsibilities and duties fully, completing safe vessel maneuvers into, out of, and within mandatory maritime pilotage areas without causing marine accidents, confirmed by port authorities.

2. Maritime pilot internship is the practice of vessel maneuvering under the guidance and supervision of a maritime pilot holding a Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilotage Skills suitable for the vessel being maneuvered.

3. Port authorities include maritime port authorities and inland waterway port authorities granted jurisdiction over navigable waters with designated vessel maneuvering routes.

4. The maritime pilot training program includes basic maritime pilot training programs, advanced maritime pilot training programs, and self-maneuvering ship captain training programs.

Article 3. Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots and Certificates of Areas of Operation for Maritime Pilots

1. Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilots

a) The Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilots (hereinafter referred to as the Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilotage Skills or GCNKNCMHTHH) is issued to Vietnamese citizens who meet the provisions of this Circular;

b) The GCNKNCMHTHH includes Class Three, Class Two, Class One, and First-Class (issued to maritime pilots) and GCNKNCMHTHH issued to self-maneuvering ship captains;

c) The GCNKNCMHTHH issued to maritime pilots has a validity period of five years from the date of issuance. The GCNKNCMHTHH issued to self-maneuvering ship captains has a validity period of two years from the date of issuance.

In cases where the GCNKNCMHTHH is reissued due to loss, damage, or changes in personal information recorded on the GCNKNCMHTHH, the validity period corresponds to the remaining validity period of the previously issued GCNKNCMHTHH.

d) The model of the GCNKNCMHTHH is specified in Appendix 1 attached to this Circular.

2. Certificate of Areas of Operation for Maritime Pilots:

a) The Certificate of Areas of Operation for Maritime Pilots (hereinafter referred to as the Certificate of Areas of Operation for Maritime Pilots or GCNVHĐHTHH) is a certificate issued to maritime pilots and ship captains specifying the areas of operation and routes where maritime pilots are permitted to operate or ship captains are permitted to self-manoeuvre vessels;

b) Maritime pilots and ship captains who have completed internship vessel maneuvering in specific areas of operation and routes shall be issued a GCNVHĐHTHH for those areas of operation and routes. In cases where maritime pilots and ship captains have completed internship vessel maneuvering in mandatory maritime pilotage areas in offshore oil and gas exploitation zones in Vietnam's territorial waters, they shall be issued a GCNVHĐHTHH for those areas of operation and all routes within them;

c) The validity period of the GCNVHĐHTHH corresponds to the validity period of the GCNKNCMHTHH;

d) The model of the GCNVHĐHTHH is specified in Appendix 2 attached to this Circular.

Article 4. Categories of Marine Pilots and Self-Navigating Ship Captains

1. Third-Class Marine Pilot is a pilot who has been granted a Third-Class Competence Certificate for Marine Pilot. A Third-Class Marine Pilot is permitted to guide ships with a total capacity up to 5,000 and a maximum length up to 115 meters.

2. Second-Class Marine Pilot is a pilot who has been granted a Second-Class Competence Certificate for Marine Pilot. A Second-Class Marine Pilot is permitted to guide ships with a total capacity up to 10,000 and a maximum length up to 145 meters.

3. First-Class Marine Pilot is a pilot who has been granted a First-Class Competence Certificate for Marine Pilot. A First-Class Marine Pilot is permitted to guide ships with a total capacity up to 20,000 and a maximum length up to 175 meters.

4. Elite-Class Marine Pilot is a pilot who has been granted an Elite-Class Competence Certificate for Marine Pilot. An Elite-Class Marine Pilot is permitted to guide all types of ships.

5. Self-Navigating Ship Captain is a captain who has been granted a Competence Certificate for Marine Pilot. The Competence Certificate for Self-Navigating Ship Captain has limitations on total capacity and maximum length not exceeding those of the ship on which the captain has completed their marine pilot training.

6. Marine pilots are permitted to guide government vessels, fishing boats, inland waterway vessels, submarines, diving vessels, floating storage units, mobile platforms, seaplanes, and foreign military vessels entering Vietnam corresponding to the pilot's category as specified in Clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 of this Article.

Chapter II
TRAINING STANDARDS FOR MARINE PILOTS; ISSUANCE OF COMPETENCE CERTIFICATES FOR MARINE PILOT AND ZONE OF OPERATIONS CERTIFICATES FOR MARINE PILOT

Article 5. Training Institutions and Marine Pilot Training Programs

1. Training institutions for marine pilots are universities that offer a specialized program in Ship Navigation Control.

2. Responsibilities of training institutions:

a) Conducting training, issuing, and revoking certificates of completion of marine pilot training programs;

b) Organizing and managing training according to the marine pilot training program as prescribed;

c) Deciding on exemptions or reductions of course components in the marine pilot training program for Vietnamese citizens holding licenses or certificates issued by foreign authorities. Such exemptions or reductions are based on an assessment of the application for exemption or reduction and documentation proving the relevant training received abroad corresponding to the content of the marine pilot training program prescribed by the Minister of Construction. The volume of exempted or reduced course components shall not exceed 50% of the total volume of course components in the marine pilot training program;

d) Establishing a Marine Pilot Examination Board, recognizing the completion of marine pilot training courses;

e) Ensuring physical facilities and equipment for teaching and learning to enhance the quality of marine pilot training; using simulation software for traffic situations on channels to train marine pilots;

f) Building databases for student management, examination management, scheduling of marine pilot training courses, and management of certificates of completion of marine pilot training courses;

g) Storing marine pilot training records as prescribed.

3. Marine pilots and marine pilot trainees may undergo training at marine pilot organizations.

Article 6. Standards and Documents for Participation in Marine Pilot Training Courses

1. Students participating in marine pilot training courses must meet the standards and admission criteria set forth in the marine pilot training program issued by the Ministry of Construction.

2. The documents required for participation in marine pilot training courses include:

a) Application form (for self-applicants) or a recommendation letter from the managing agency or organization;

b) Certified true copy or original copy for verification of graduation certificate. For graduation certificates issued by foreign educational institutions, an additional certified true copy or original copy for verification of the recognition certificate of the qualification according to the regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training shall be submitted;

c) Certified true copy of English proficiency certificate or proof;

d) Health certificate in accordance with regulations;

đ) Curriculum vitae with confirmation from authorized agencies or organizations;

e) Certified true copy or original copy for verification: Seafarer’s Logbook (for cases registering to participate in basic marine pilot training courses or advanced marine pilot training courses for self-navigating ship captains);

g) Written confirmation of the number of safe navigation trips or apostilled written confirmation of the number of safe navigation trips by the agency or organization where the pilot, who is a Vietnamese citizen, works, holding a pilot license or certificate issued by an authorized foreign agency (for cases registering to participate in advanced marine pilot training courses);

h) Apostilled pilot license or certificate (for pilots who are Vietnamese citizens holding a pilot license or certificate issued by foreign organizations or agencies).

Article 7. Conditions for Issuing Class III and Class II Pilot Licenses for Those Without a Pilot License

1. Conditions for issuing a Class III Pilot License:

7. Supplementing Clause 3a after Clause 3 of Article 11 as follows:

b) Having at least 400 safe navigation practice trips or at least 200 safe navigation practice trips over a minimum period of 36 months, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority; in cases with a Certificate of Professional Competence for Ship Captains with a total gross tonnage of 500 or more, there must be at least 200 safe navigation practice trips or at least 100 safe navigation practice trips over a minimum period of 24 months, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority.

2. Conditions for issuing a Class II Pilot License for those without a Class III Pilot License:

7. Supplementing Clause 3a after Clause 3 of Article 11 as follows:

b) Having at least 200 safe navigation practice trips for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 5,000 and maximum length exceeding 115 meters; or having at least 100 safe navigation practice trips for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 5,000 and maximum length exceeding 115 meters over a minimum period of 12 months, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority;

c) Having a minimum of 36 months serving as captain of ships with a total gross tonnage of 3,000 or more.

Article 8. Conditions for Issuing Class II, Class I, and Extra-Class Pilot Licenses for Those Already Holding a Pilot License Issued by Authorized Vietnamese Agencies; Pilot License for Self-Navigating Ship Captains

1. Conditions for issuing a Class II Pilot License for marine pilots already holding a Class III Pilot License:

a) Having at least 300 safe navigation trips for ships with a total gross tonnage up to 5,000 and maximum length up to 115 meters, or at least 200 safe navigation trips over a minimum period of 24 months for ships with a total gross tonnage up to 5,000 and maximum length up to 115 meters, confirmed by the port authority;

b) Having at least 50 safe navigation practice trips for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 5,000 and maximum length exceeding 115 meters, or at least 30 safe navigation practice trips over a minimum period of 12 months for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 5,000 and maximum length exceeding 115 meters, under the guidance of a marine pilot holding a Class II Pilot License or higher, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority.

2. Conditions for issuing a Class I Pilot License:

a) Having completed the advanced marine pilot training course;

b) Having at least 300 safe navigation trips, including at least 200 safe navigation trips for ships with a total gross tonnage between 5,000 and 10,000 and maximum length between 115 and 145 meters, or at least 200 safe navigation trips over a minimum period of 24 months, including at least 150 safe navigation trips for ships with a total gross tonnage between 5,000 and 10,000 and maximum length between 115 and 145 meters, confirmed by the port authority;

c) Having at least 50 safe navigation practice trips for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 10,000 and maximum length exceeding 145 meters, or at least 30 safe navigation practice trips over a minimum period of six months for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 10,000 and maximum length exceeding 145 meters, under the guidance of a marine pilot holding a Class I Pilot License or higher, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority.

3. Conditions for issuing an Extra-Class Pilot License:

a) Holding a Class I Pilot License;

b) Having at least 300 safe navigation trips, including at least 200 safe navigation trips for ships with a total gross tonnage between 10,000 and 20,000 and maximum length between 145 and 175 meters, or at least 200 safe navigation trips over a minimum period of 36 months, including at least 150 safe navigation trips for ships with a total gross tonnage between 10,000 and 20,000 and maximum length between 145 and 175 meters, confirmed by the port authority;

c) Having at least 50 safe navigation practice trips for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 20,000 and maximum length exceeding 175 meters, or at least 30 safe navigation practice trips over a minimum period of six months for ships with a total gross tonnage exceeding 20,000 and maximum length exceeding 175 meters, under the guidance of a marine pilot holding an Extra-Class Pilot License, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority.

4. Conditions for issuing a Pilot License for Self-Navigating Ship Captains:

a) Completion of the marine pilot training course for self-navigating ship captains;

b) Possession of a valid Certificate of Professional Competence for Ship Captains;

c) Having at least 12 safe navigation practice trips on the same ship over a period of six months immediately preceding the application for the Pilot License, confirmed by the pilot organization conducting the assessment and the port authority.

5. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH) where the existing certificate has less than three months remaining validity or has expired:

a) For marine pilots:

Have completed at least 200 safe pilotage operations within five years or at least 50 safe pilotage operations within twelve months immediately preceding the date of application (for offshore oil port pilots, at least 40 safe pilotage operations within five years or at least 10 safe pilotage operations within twelve months immediately preceding the date of application); confirmed by the pilot management organization and the port authority; or have completed at least 30 safe supervised pilotage training operations within three months immediately preceding the date of application, confirmed by the pilot management organization and the training organization (the training location may be different from the operational area recorded in the GCNKNCMHTHH), and confirmed by the port authority;

b) For self-piloting masters:

Have completed at least 12 safe self-pilotage operations during the validity period of the GCNKNCMHTHH, confirmed by the management organization and the port authority.

Article 9. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH) for cases with a pilot license or certificate issued by foreign authorities:

1. Conditions for issuing a Class III Pilot License:

a) Having completed basic marine pilot training in Vietnam;

b) Having completed at least 300 safe pilotage operations confirmed by foreign marine pilot management organizations, and having completed at least 100 safe supervised pilotage training operations confirmed by the training pilot organization and the port authority.

2. Conditions for issuing the Second Class Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH):

a) Having completed basic marine pilot training in Vietnam;

b) Having completed at least 200 safe pilotage operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 5,000 and a maximum length over 115 meters, confirmed by foreign marine pilot management organizations, and having completed at least 100 safe supervised pilotage training operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 5,000 and a maximum length over 115 meters, confirmed by the training pilot organization and the port authority.

3. Conditions for issuing the First Class Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH):

a) Having completed advanced marine pilot training in Vietnam;

b) Having completed at least 300 safe pilotage operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 10,000 and a maximum length over 145 meters, confirmed by foreign marine pilot management organizations, and having completed at least 100 safe supervised pilotage training operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 10,000 or a maximum length over 145 meters under the guidance of a marine pilot holding a First Class or higher GCNKNCMHTHH, confirmed by the training pilot organization and the port authority.

4. Conditions for issuing the Extraordinary Class Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH):

a) Having completed advanced marine pilot training in Vietnam;

b) Having completed at least 200 safe pilotage operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 20,000 and a maximum length over 175 meters, confirmed by foreign marine pilot management organizations, and having completed at least 100 safe supervised pilotage training operations for vessels with a gross tonnage over 20,000 or a maximum length over 175 meters under the guidance of an Extraordinary Class marine pilot, confirmed by the training pilot organization and the port authority.

Article 10. Procedures for Issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Pilot (GCNKNCMHTHH)

1. The initial issuance application package includes:

a) An original or electronically signed document according to the model specified in Appendix 3 issued together with this Circular from the marine pilot organization or the master management unit;

b) A copy of the Certificate confirming completion of marine pilot training or the Decision recognizing completion of marine pilot training issued by the marine pilot training institution;

c) Three assessment forms for three safe pilotage training operations for Third Class marine pilots, two assessment forms for two safe pilotage training operations for Second Class, First Class, and Extraordinary Class marine pilots, and one assessment form for self-piloting masters according to the model specified in Appendix 4 issued together with this Circular;

d) Legalized consular copies of the pilot license or certificate and legalized consular copies of the confirmation of the number of safe pilotage operations abroad according to the model specified in Appendix 3 issued together with this Circular for Vietnamese marine pilots holding a pilot license or certificate issued by foreign authorities;

đ) Two color photographs for direct submission or submission through postal service, one file photograph for online submission through the public service system, size 3cm x 4cm, white background, taken within the last six months;

e) An original or certified copy or an electronically certified copy from the original Health Certificate according to regulations.

2. The application package for issuing the GCNKNCMHTHH where the existing certificate has less than three months remaining validity or has expired includes: the components specified in points a, đ, e of Clause 1 of this Article.

3. The application package for issuing the GCNKNCMHTHH where the existing certificate is lost, damaged, or has changed personal information already recorded in the GCNKNCMHTHH includes the components specified in points a, đ of Clause 1 of this Article; an original or certified copy or an electronically certified copy from the original document proving the change (in case of changes to personal information already recorded in the GCNKNCMHTHH).

4. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents directly to the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterway Administration or send them through the postal service or the public service system. Electronic versions of the application documents and administrative procedure results have the same legal effect as paper versions.

5. The Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterway Administration receives the application documents, checks the components and quantity of documents according to regulations, registers them in the logbook, and schedules the return of the result according to regulations:

a) In the case of direct submission, if the documents are incomplete according to regulations, they will be returned and the organization or individual will be instructed to complete the documents according to regulations;

b) In the case of submission through the postal service or the public service system, if the documents are incomplete according to regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterway Administration will notify in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the documents.

6. Procedure for processing applications:

a) For initial issuance, where the certificate has less than three months remaining validity or has expired:

Within two working days from the date of receiving a complete dossier in accordance with the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue a document to the port authority requesting confirmation of the number of safe pilotage operations according to the form prescribed in Appendix 5 attached to this Circular; within three working days from the date of receipt of the document from the Vietnam Maritime Administration, the port authority shall issue a confirmation document to the Vietnam Maritime Administration according to the form prescribed in Appendix 6 attached to this Circular.

Within two working days from the date of receipt of the confirmation document from the port authority, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue the Pilot License according to the form prescribed in Appendix 1 attached to this Circular. In case the conditions for issuing the Pilot License are not met as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

b) In case the Pilot License is lost, damaged, or personal information recorded therein has changed, within three working days from the date of receipt of a complete dossier in accordance with the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue the Pilot License according to the form prescribed in Appendix 1 attached to this Circular. In case the conditions for issuing the Pilot License are not met as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

7. The Pilot License shall be issued in electronic form; except in cases where citizens or organizations request a paper copy.

Article 11. Conditions for Issuing the Pilot License

1. Having a valid Pilot License in accordance with point c, Clause 1 of Article 3 of this Circular.

2. Specifically, for marine pilots leading vessels at offshore oil ports, to be eligible for issuance of the Pilot License, they must have completed a minimum of 18 safe pilotage operations at that pilotage area and been examined and confirmed by the pilot organization where the training took place and the port authority.

Article 12. Procedures for Issuing the Pilot License

1. Cases eligible for issuance of the Pilot License:

a) For the first issuance of the Pilot License, it must meet the conditions stipulated in Clauses 1 and 2 of Article 11 of this Circular;

b) For the issuance of the Pilot License due to changes in the Pilot License;

c) For the Pilot License that is lost, damaged, or has personal information or workplace information recorded therein changed.

2. The dossier for issuing the Pilot License includes:

a) An original or electronically signed document according to the model specified in Appendix 3 issued together with this Circular from the marine pilot organization or the master management unit;

b) An original or certified copy or an electronically certified copy from the original of documents having legal value proving the adjustment for cases of changes in personal information or workplace information recorded in the Pilot License;

c) Two color photographs measuring 3cm x 4cm on a white background, taken within the last six months, for cases submitted directly or through postal service, or one file photograph for cases submitted through the online public service system.

Organizations and individuals submit one set of dossiers directly to the Vietnam Maritime Administration or send them through the postal service or the online public service system. Electronic dossiers and administrative procedure results have the same legal effect as paper copies.

4. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives the dossier, checks the components and quantity of the dossier in accordance with the regulations, registers it in the logbook, and schedules the return of the result in accordance with the regulations:

a) In the case of direct submission, if the documents are incomplete according to regulations, they will be returned and the organization or individual will be instructed to complete the documents according to regulations;

b) In the case of receiving the dossier through the postal service or the online public service system, if the dossier is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall notify in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the dossier.

Within two working days from the date of receipt of a complete dossier in accordance with the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue the Pilot License according to the form prescribed in Appendix 2 attached to this Circular. In case the conditions for issuing the Pilot License are not met as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

6. The Pilot License shall be issued in electronic form; except in cases where citizens or organizations request a paper copy.

Article 13. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area for marine pilots transferring to a new area of operation; marine pilots leading ships on new routes within the pilotage area.

1. Marine pilots transferring to a new area of operation must have at least six months of practical training leading ships in the new pilotage area with a minimum number of safe ship leadings (certified by the pilot organization where the training takes place and the port authority) as stipulated below:

a) One hundred ship leadings for the following pilotage areas: Quang Ninh (excluding the route leading ships into Van Gia transshipment zone); Hai Phong - Hung Yen - Ninh Binh (excluding the routes leading ships into Hung Yen and Ninh Binh seaports); Ho Chi Minh City - Dong Nai - Tay Ninh and the Mekong River (excluding the route leading ships through the Mekong River).

Clause 4. Within no more than two working days from the date of receiving all required documents, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue the Certificate of Navigation Area for Marine Pilots for those transferring navigation areas. In cases where the conditions for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Area for Marine Pilots for those transferring navigation areas are not met, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

2. Marine pilots transferring to offshore oil ports must have at least three months of practical training leading ships and eighteen safe ship leadings (certified by the pilot organization where the training takes place and the port authority).

3. For marine pilots who are issued the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area in two or more areas, if they return to their previous area of operation after more than twelve months, they must undergo training with a minimum number of safe ship leadings (certified by the pilot organization where the training takes place and the port authority) as follows:

a) Six ship leadings for marine pilots leading ships at offshore oil ports.

Clause 4. Within no more than two working days from the date of receiving all required documents, the Vietnam Maritime Administration shall issue the Certificate of Navigation Area for Marine Pilots for those transferring navigation areas. In cases where the conditions for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Area for Marine Pilots for those transferring navigation areas are not met, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

4. Marine pilots leading ships on new routes within the pilotage area:

a) Must have a document from the competent authority assigning the provision of pilotage services on the new route within the pilotage area;

b) Must hold the Certificate of Competency for Marine Pilots and one hundred safe ship leadings in the pilotage area (certified by the pilot organization and the port authority).

Article 14. Procedures for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area for marine pilots transferring to a new area of operation; marine pilots leading ships on new routes within the pilotage area.

1. The application dossier for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area for marine pilots transferring to a new area of operation; marine pilots leading ships on new routes within the pilotage area includes:

a) An original or electronically signed document in accordance with the model prescribed in Appendix 3 attached to this Circular;

b) Two color photographs for cases submitted directly or via postal service, one file (3cm x 4cm) photograph for cases submitted online, taken against a white background within the last six months.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application dossiers directly to the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration or send them via postal service or online public service system. Electronic application dossiers and administrative procedure results have the same legal effect as paper versions.

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration receives the dossiers, checks the components and quantity of dossiers in accordance with regulations, registers them in the logbook, and schedules the result delivery as prescribed:

a) In the case of direct submission, if the documents are incomplete according to regulations, they will be returned and the organization or individual will be instructed to complete the documents according to regulations;

b) In cases where dossiers are received via postal service or online public service system, if the dossiers are incomplete according to regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration will notify in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the dossiers;

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving complete dossiers according to regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration will issue a written request to the port authority to confirm the number of safe ship leadings in accordance with the model prescribed in Appendix 5 attached to this Circular. Within three working days from the date of receipt of the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration's document, the port authority will issue a confirmation document sent to the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration in accordance with the model prescribed in Appendix 6 attached to this Circular.

4. Within two working days from the date of receiving the port authority's confirmation, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration will issue the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area in accordance with the model prescribed in Appendix 2 attached to this Circular. In cases where the conditions for issuing the Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area are not met, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration must respond in writing and specify the reasons.

5. The Certificate of Navigation Pilotage Area is issued in electronic form; except when citizens or organizations request a paper version.

Article 15. Extension of Time and Additional Voyages for Promotion and Revocation of GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH

1. During the tenure of their position, if a marine pilot causes a maritime accident due to negligence, they shall be subject to an extension of time and additional safe voyage requirements as follows:

a) For less serious maritime accidents, in addition to meeting the conditions for issuing GCNKNCMHTHH as stipulated in point a, Clause 1, point b, Clause 2, and point b, Clause 3 of Article 8 of this Circular, the marine pilot must complete an additional 25 safe voyages compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (excluding time) or have their promotion period extended by an additional three months compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (including the minimum time);

b) For serious maritime accidents, in addition to meeting the conditions for issuing GCNKNCMHTHH as stipulated in point a, Clause 1, point b, Clause 2, and point b, Clause 3 of Article 8 of this Circular, the marine pilot must complete an additional 50 safe voyages compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (excluding time) or have their promotion period extended by an additional six months compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (including the minimum time);

c) For particularly serious maritime accidents, in addition to meeting the conditions for issuing GCNKNCMHTHH as stipulated in point a, Clause 1, point b, Clause 2, and point b, Clause 3 of Article 8 of this Circular, the marine pilot must complete an additional 100 safe voyages compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (excluding time) or have their promotion period extended by an additional twelve months compared to the minimum number of safe voyages required (including the minimum time);

2. GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH already issued will be revoked when it is discovered that false or altered documents were used or incorrect information was reported in the administrative procedure application file for GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH;

3. The authority issuing GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH has the power to revoke GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH upon discovering violations as stipulated in Clause 2 of this Article.

Article 16. Fees and Charges for Issuing Various Certificates

Fees and charges for issuing GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH shall be implemented in accordance with the laws on fees and charges and the guidance of the Ministry of Finance.

Chapter III
RESPONSIBILITIES OF AUTHORITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS

Article 17. Responsibilities of the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Administration

Organize inspections of marine pilot training at training institutions.

Article 18. Responsibilities of Marine Pilot Organizations

1. Organize internships for marine pilots; examine marine pilots during their internship period; confirm the actual time spent on ship piloting and the number of safe voyages for marine pilots or marine pilot trainees.

2. Assign marine pilots according to their GCNKNCMHTHH and GCNVHĐHTHH.

3. In cases where Extraordinary Class marine pilots pilot ships with a total tonnage exceeding 40,000 and a maximum length over 225 meters, the head of the marine pilot organization is responsible for assigning marine pilots who have completed a minimum of 30 safe voyages for ships with lengths between 175 and 225 meters.

4. Temporarily suspend work and impose disciplinary actions in accordance with the law when a marine pilot causes a maritime accident due to negligence.

5. Regularly provide professional training, update English language skills, maritime safety, maritime security, and environmental pollution prevention knowledge for marine pilots.

6. Promptly propose rewards to competent authorities for collectives and individuals with outstanding achievements in marine pilot operations.

7. Monitor and confirm the internship piloting process of marine pilots or self-piloted captains.

8. Develop, manage, update, and maintain a database of marine pilot voyages.

Article 19. Responsibilities of the Port Control Authority

1. Supervise the activities of maritime pilots leading ships into and out of ports and their operations at sea to ensure maritime safety, maritime security, and environmental protection.

2. Confirm the number of safe ship-leading trips of maritime pilots and captains who lead their own ships.

3. The Director of the Port Control Authority shall not permit captains to lead their own ships when weather conditions are poor or there is a risk of affecting maritime safety, maritime security, and preventing environmental pollution.

4. Take the lead and coordinate with units responsible for ensuring maritime safety, port enterprises, ship owners, and maritime pilot organizations to conduct surveys, evaluations, and propose ship-leading plans on new routes within the maritime pilot's operational area.

Chapter IV
IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 20. Implementation Provisions

1. This Circular takes effect from December 30, 2025.

2. Abolish the following Circulars:

a) Circular No. 27/2016/TT-BGTVT dated October 12, 2016 issued by the Minister of Transport regarding training, issuance, and revocation of Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots and Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots;

b) Circular No. 54/2023/TT-BGTVT dated December 31, 2023 issued by the Minister of Transport amending and supplementing certain provisions of Circular No. 27/2016/TT-BGTVT dated October 12, 2016 issued by the Minister of Transport.

Article 21. Transitional Provisions

1. Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots and Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots issued according to Circular No. 27/2016/TT-BGTVT on training, issuance, and revocation of Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots and Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots, and Circular No. 54/2023/TT-BGTVT amending and supplementing certain provisions of Circular No. 27/2016/TT-BGTVT remain valid until the expiration date stated on the certificates.

2. The number of ship-leading trips and ship-leading internships conducted by maritime pilots and captains before this Circular takes effect will continue to be counted towards the total number of ship-leading trips and ship-leading internships for issuing Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots, Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots, and participating in maritime pilot training courses if they comply with the provisions of this Circular.

3. Applications for Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots, Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots, and applications for participation in maritime pilot training courses submitted before this Circular takes effect will continue to be processed in accordance with the laws in effect at the time of submission.

4. Pilot organizations shall develop databases to manage the number of ship-leading trips of maritime pilots, completing them before January 1, 2027./.

ANNEX 1

MODEL OF CERTIFICATE OF MARITIME PILOTAGE COMPETENCY
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

1. Model of Certificate of Maritime Pilotage Competency (front side)

(Size: 14 cm x 20 cm)

2. Model of Certificate of Maritime Pilotage Competency (back side)

(Size: 14 cm x 20 cm)

ANNEX 2

MODEL OF CERTIFICATE OF OPERATIONAL AREAS FOR MARITIME PILOTS
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

1. Model of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots (front side)

(Size: 14 cm x 20 cm)

2. Model of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots (back side)

(Size: 14 cm x 20 cm)

ANNEX 3

MODEL OF LETTER REQUESTING ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF MARITIME PILOTAGE COMPETENCY AND CERTIFICATE OF OPERATIONAL AREAS FOR MARITIME PILOTS
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

Respected Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration,

Based on Circular No. / /TT-BXD dated …issued by the Minister of Construction regarding standards for maritime pilot training; issuance, and revocation of certificates of competency for maritime pilots and certificates of operational areas for maritime pilots, Company …requests Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration to consider and issue Certificates of Competency for Maritime Pilots and Certificates of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots for the following individuals:

1. For Third-Class Maritime Pilots

Full name…Born on……/……./…

Personal Identification Number: …

Completed Basic Maritime Pilot Training Course on day…month...year…

Certificate of Competency/Recognition Decision No:…

Certificate of Competency for Master of Seagoing Vessels (if applicable):…

Time served as Master of Seagoing Vessels (if applicable): …months.

Time spent on Third-Class Maritime Pilot Internship:…….months; number of safe ship-leading internships:………

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilots: Third Class.

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots: (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes)…

List of safe ship-leading trips and internships (Attached).

2. For Second-Class Maritime Pilots

Full name…Born on……/……./…

Personal Identification Number: …

Certificate of Competency for Third-Class Maritime Pilots No: …

Current Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots No: …

Led ships on the following routes in the operational areas: … (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes).

Time led ships using Certificate of Competency for Third-Class Maritime Pilots:…months; number of safe ship-leading trips:…

Certificate of Competency for Master of Seagoing Vessels:…

Time served as Master of Seagoing Vessels: …months.

Time spent on Second-Class Maritime Pilot Internship:…months; number of safe ship-leading internship trips:…

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilots: Second Class.

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots: (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes)…

List of safe ship-leading trips and internships (Attached).

3. For First-Class Maritime Pilots

Full name…Born on……/……./…

Personal Identification Number: …

Completed Advanced Maritime Pilot Training Course on day….month...year...

Certificate of Competency/Recognition Decision No…

Certificate of Competency for Second-Class Maritime Pilots: …

Current Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots No: …

Led ships on the following routes in the operational areas: … (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes)

Number of safe ship-leading trips using Certificate of Competency for Second-Class Maritime Pilots:….. trips, during the period:….. months; number of safe ship-leading trips for vessels with gross tonnage over 5,000 to 10,000 and maximum length over 115 meters to 145 meters:….. trips.

Time spent on First-Class Maritime Pilot Internship: …months; number of safe ship-leading internship trips: ……trips.

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Competency for Maritime Pilots: First Class

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots: (specify the name of the area and the routes for guiding ships) ………

List of safe ship-leading trips and internships (Attached).

4. For Extraordinary Marine Pilots

Full name…Born on……/……./…

Personal Identification Number: …

Number of Extraordinary Marine Pilot License Grade One: …

Current Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots No: …

Led ships on the following routes in the operational areas: … (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes).

Number of safe ship guiding trips using Extraordinary Marine Pilot License Grade One:….. trips, within the period:… months; number of safe ship guiding trips for vessels with total displacement from 10,000 to 20,000 and maximum length from 145 meters to 175 meters:….. trips.

Duration of Extraordinary Marine Pilot internship: ……. months; number of internship ship guiding trips…

□ Application for Extraordinary Marine Pilot License

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots: (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes)…

List of safe ship-leading trips and internships (Attached).

5. For Self-Guiding Ship Captains

Full name…Born on……/……./…

Personal Identification Number: …

Completed Marine Pilot Training Course for Self-Guiding Ship Captains on …day….month....year...

Certificate of Competency/Recognition Decision No…

Number of Marine Captain License: …

Duration serving as ship captain: …months

Duration of internship ship guiding: …….months; number of safe internship ship guiding trips:……trips; on ships with total displacement:…, maximum length:…. meters.

□ Application for Self-Guiding Ship Captain Marine Pilot License.

□ Request issuance of Certificate of Operational Areas for Maritime Pilots: (Specify the specific name of the operational area and routes).

List of safe ship-leading trips and internships (Attached).

The accompanying documents include:

.......................................................…………………………….……………........

(Reason: … (applicable for cases other than first-time issuance)).

I hereby commit that the information provided above and attached documents are true, and I will bear legal responsibility if they are incorrect.

Request the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Bureau to consider and resolve./.

Note:

- Provide all necessary information corresponding to the requested pilot grade.

- (1) Head of the pilot organization or management unit for captains.

LIST OF SAFE PILOTED MOVEMENTS

(Attached to Circular No.: …, dated ... month ... year ... of …)

Full name of Marine Pilot/Captain: …

Date of birth: …day…month…year…

Personal Identification Number: …

Attended specialized training on... day... month... year:

Number of Marine Pilot License (if applicable):…

Number of Marine Pilot Training Certificate (if applicable):…

Number of Marine Captain License (if applicable):…

Below is the list of ships, safe guiding times of Marine Pilot/Captain …: □

In the Area …, on (the) routes for guiding ships …

…………………………..……………………………………………………………….............

………….........................................................................................................................

Below is the list of ships, internship guiding times of Marine Pilot/Captain …: □

In the Area …, on (the) routes for guiding ships …

…………………………..………………………………………………………………................

…………...........................................................................................................................

Port Management Area:…

List of safe guided ship movements abroad for Vietnamese citizens holding Marine Pilot License issued by foreign agencies or organizations (if applicable).

LIST OF SAFE PILOTED MOVEMENTS

LIST OF SAFE PILOTED MOVEMENTS

Full name: …

Full name :…

Date of birth: …day…month…year…

Date of birth: …

Personal Identification Number: …

Personal identification number:…

Name of pilot organization where the pilot works:…

Pilot’s Organization/Company name:…

Number of Marine Pilot License:…

Pilot License Number:…

Guiding area:…

Pilotage area: …

Limitation of Marine Pilot License:…

Limitation of Pilot License:…

Below is the list of safe ship guiding trips conducted by the Marine Pilot:

The list of safe piloted movements conducted by the marine pilot is shown below:

I hereby confirm that the above information is accurate and true.

I hereby confirm that the above information is true and correct.

Note: (1) Representative of the Head of the Organization.

ANNEX 4

SAMPLE APPLICATION FOR PROFESSIONAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT/ EVALUATION OF MARINE PILOTS
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

SKILLS ASSESSMENT FORM

Full name of the assessed Marine Pilot: …

Personal Identification Number: …

Position: …

Number of Marine Pilot License of the assessed Marine Pilot: …

Number of Marine Pilot Training Certificate of the assessed Marine Pilot:…

Full name of the person being assessed: …

Date of birth: …day…month…year…

Personal Identification Number: …

Attended specialized training on... day... month... year:

Position: …

Number of Marine Pilot License (if applicable):…

Number of Marine Pilot Training Certificate (if applicable):…

Number of Marine Captain License (if applicable)…

Date of assessment/guiding trip:…time from:…to: ……

Ship name: …GT:…LOA:…m

Assessment/guiding trip route: …

..................................................................................................................................

Assessment result:

Communication skills: Vietnamese:…points; English:…points (1)

Compliance with International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea: …points (1)

Ship maneuvering skills: …points (1)

Posture, demeanor: (Pass/Fail)…

Other comments: …

Note:

- (1) Scale of 10 points;

- (2) Head of the Marine Pilot organization.

ANNEX 5

SAMPLE DOCUMENT REQUESTING PORT AUTHORITY TO CONFIRM SAFE SHIP GUIDING TRIPS
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

Dear Port Authority …

The Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Bureau has received the application for issuing …of ………(1). Based on the provisions of Circular No...issued by the Minister of Construction regarding standards for training Marine Pilots; issuing, revoking Marine Pilot Professional Certificates and Pilot Activity Areas, the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Bureau requests the Port Authority …to confirm the number of …safe ship guiding trips of the following individuals:

Name: ……………..

Date of birth:……/……/…

Personal Identification Number: …

Number of Marine Pilot License (if applicable):…Issued on …

Number of Marine Pilot Training Certificate (if applicable): …Issued on …

Request to confirm for issuance of Marine Pilot License Grade ….

Attended specialized training on... day... month... year:

(List of …safe ship guiding trips attached)

Confirmation by the Port Authority…, please send back to the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Bureau (through Room ………) before …./……to process administrative procedures as prescribed./.

Note: (1) Marine Pilot organization or management unit for captains.

ANNEX 6

SAMPLE DOCUMENT CONFIRMING SAFE SHIP GUIDING TRIPS
(Annexed to Circular No. 31/2025/TT-BXD dated October 31, 2025 issued by the Minister of Construction)

Respected Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration,

The Port Authority …has received Document No...dated …from the Vietnam Maritime Administration and Inland Waterways Bureau regarding confirmation …, after reviewing and cross-checking, the Port Authority …confirms:

Name: ……………..

Date of birth:……/……/…

Personal Identification Number:…

Confirm for issuance of Marine Pilot License Grade…/ Marine Pilot Training Certificate …

- There are …safe ship guiding trips, including …safe ship guiding trips for vessels of type……; duration …months, from month… year… to month … year …..; in the Marine Pilot area:…, on the guiding routes: …

- There are……safe internship ship guiding trips for vessels of type…; duration …months, from month… year… to month … year …..; in the Marine Pilot area:…, on the guiding routes: …

- Number of ship guiding trips, internship ship guiding trips not confirmed (if any):…

- Number of ship guiding trips with errors made by Marine Pilots leading to maritime accidents (if any):…(Penalty decision attached).

…………………………………………………………………………..../.

Note: (1) Name of agency confirming safe ship guiding trips, internship ship guiding trips.