Circular No. 37/2016/TT-BGTVT on the standards for professional qualifications, certificates, training, and minimum safety manning of Vietnamese seagoing vessels.

CIRCULAR

Regulations on professional standards, professional certificates, training, and crew member instruction for Vietnamese merchant ships

and the minimum safe manning of Vietnamese merchant ships

______________

 

Pursuant to the Vietnam Maritime Code on November 25, 2015;

Pursuant to Decree No. 107/2012/NĐ-CP dated December 20, 2012 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Transport;

BASED ON THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 2010 (STCW CONVENTION), TO WHICH VIETNAM IS A PARTY;

 At the proposal of the Director of the Cadre and Civil Servant Department and the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration;

The Minister of Transport issues this Circular to regulate professional standards, professional certificates, training, and crew member instruction for Vietnamese merchant ships and the minimum safe manning of Vietnamese merchant ships.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

||| 1. The STCW Convention is the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, and its amendments (STCW Convention).

||| 2. The STCW Code is the Code accompanying the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, and its amendments.

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to agencies, organizations, and individuals related to the professional standards, professional certificates of crew members, training, and crew member instruction for Vietnamese merchant ships and the minimum safe manning of Vietnamese merchant ships.

Article 3. Explanation of Terms

In this Circular, the following terms shall be understood as follows:

1. The STCW Convention is the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended in 2010.

||| 6. Deck Officer is an officer with the professional qualifications specified in Chapter II of the STCW Convention.

3. The Master is the person with the highest command authority on board the ship.

4. An officer is a member of the crew other than the Master who meets the conditions and standards to hold a position on a merchant ship.

5. The Chief Officer is the deck officer next in rank to the Master and is the person commanding the ship when the Master is unable to command the ship.

6. A deck officer is an officer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Chapter II of the STCW Convention.

7. An OS watchkeeper is a seafarer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulation II/4 of the STCW Convention and has completed specialized training as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

8. An AB watchkeeper is a seafarer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulations II/4 and II/5 of the STCW Convention and has completed specialized training as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

9. The Chief Engineer is a senior engineer responsible for the mechanical propulsion of the ship and operation and maintenance of electrical and mechanical equipment on board.

10. The Second Engineer is the engineer next in rank to the Chief Engineer, responsible for the mechanical propulsion of the ship and operation and maintenance of electrical and mechanical equipment on board when the Chief Engineer is unable to perform his duties.

11. An engineering officer is an officer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulations III/1, III/2, and III/3 of the STCW Convention.

12. An Oiler watchkeeper is a seafarer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulation III/4 of the STCW Convention and has completed specialized training as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

13. An AB watchkeeper is a seafarer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulations III/4 and III/5 of the STCW Convention and has completed specialized training as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

14. An electrical engineering officer is an officer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulation III/6 of the STCW Convention.

15. An electrical rating is a seafarer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Regulation III/7 of the STCW Convention.

16. A GMDSS radio officer is an officer with the professional expertise as stipulated in the relevant provisions of Chapter IV of the STCW Convention.

17. A marine security officer is a person working on board the ship responsible to the Master, appointed by the company to ensure the security of the ship including implementing and maintaining the ship's security plan and communicating with the company's security officer and port security officer.

18. Security duties include all tasks related to security on board the ship as defined in Chapter XI-2 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS 74 as amended) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code).

19. An oil tanker is a ship constructed or converted and used exclusively for the carriage of crude oil and petroleum products.

20. A chemical tanker is a ship constructed or converted and used for carrying liquid chemicals listed in Chapter 17 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code).

21. A liquefied gas carrier is a ship constructed or converted and used for carrying liquefied gases as specified in Chapter 19 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code).

22. A passenger ship is a ship as defined in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS 74 as amended).

23. A Ro-Ro passenger ship is a passenger ship with Ro-Ro spaces or special spaces as defined in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS 74 as amended).

24. Near-coastal voyage is the voyage of a ship with a gross tonnage under 500GT within the limits defined by straight lines connecting the following coordinates: 12⁰00’N, 100⁰00’E; 23⁰00’N, 100⁰00’E; 23⁰00’N, 114⁰20’E; 12⁰00’N, 114⁰00’E; 12⁰00’N, 116⁰00’E; 07⁰00’N, 116⁰00’E and 07⁰00’N, 102⁰30’E. Additionally, voyages of ships in waters under the sovereignty, sovereign rights, and continental shelf of Vietnam are also considered near-coastal voyages.

25. A training logbook is a logbook issued to university-level cadet officers on board ships of 500 GT or more, cadet engineers on ships with main engine power of 750 kW or more, or to students undergoing cadet officer training on board ships of 500 GT or more, cadet engineers on ships with main engine power of 750 kW or more according to the approved maritime officer training program by the Ministry of Transport; and to seafarers with college level or higher undergoing cadet electrical officer training as required in Table A-III/6 of the STCW Code.

26. Training period is the time a seafarer works on board a ship according to a training program consistent with the STCW Convention.

27. Probationary period is the time spent training in a position on a ship corresponding to the professional certificate under the supervision of an officer.

28. Period of service in a position is the time worked in a position consistent with the professional certificate issued.

29. Sea service time is the time a seafarer or student works or trains on board a ship.

30. Month means a calendar month or thirty days, composed of periods smaller than a month.

31. Function is a group of tasks, duties, and responsibilities specified in the STCW Convention necessary for the operation of a ship, safety of life at sea, or protection of the marine environment.

32. The company that is the shipowner or any other organization or individual such as the manager or bareboat charterer who undertakes responsibility for the operation of the vessel from the shipowner and those who agree to assume all such tasks and responsibilities for the company as provided for in the regulations.

33. Certificate of Competency (hereinafter referred to as "CC") is a certificate issued to seafarers according to the provisions of the STCW Convention.

34. Certificate of Training (hereinafter referred to as "CT") is a certificate issued to seafarers according to the provisions of the STCW Convention.

35. Recognition of Certificate of Competency is a document issued by the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration to foreign seafarers who have been granted a Certificate of Competency under the provisions of the STCW Convention to work on Vietnamese ships.

36. Confirmation of Issuance of Certificate is a document issued by the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration to seafarers who have been issued a certificate of completion of training courses by the training institution in accordance with Rule IV/2, Rule V/1-1, and Rule V/1-2 of the STCW Convention.

Chapter II

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS OF SEAFARERS

Article 4. Professional Standards of Masters and Chief Officers of Ships of 500 GT and Above

The master and chief officer of vessels of 500 GT and above must meet the professional standards set out in Sections A-II/1, A-II/2, A-IV/2, and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Code regarding the following functions:

1. Navigation Management Level.

2. Cargo Handling and Stowage Management Level.

3. Ship Operation Control and Crew Care Management Level.

4. Communication Operations Level.

Article 5. Professional Standards for the Master and Chief Officer of Vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT on Near Coastal Voyages and the Master of Vessels under 50 GT

The master and chief officer of vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT on near coastal voyages and the master of vessels under 50 GT must meet the professional standards set out in Sections A-II/3, A-IV/2, and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Code regarding the following functions:

1. Navigation Management Level.

2. Cargo Handling and Stowage Management Level.

3. Ship Operation Control and Crew Care Management Level.

4. Communication Operations Level.

Article 6. Professional Standards for Deck Officers of Vessels of 500 GT and Above

Deck officers on vessels of 500 GT and above must meet the professional standards specified in Sections A-II/1, A-IV/2, and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Convention regarding the following functions:

1. Navigation at operational level.

2. Cargo handling and stowage techniques at operational level.

3. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at operational level.

4. Communication Operations Level.

Article 7. Professional Standards for Deck Officers of Vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT on Near Coastal Voyages

Deck officers of vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT on near coastal voyages must meet the professional standards set out in Sections A-II/3, A-IV/2, and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Code regarding the following functions:

1. Navigation at operational level.

2. Cargo handling and stowage techniques at operational level.

3. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at operational level.

4. Communication Operations Level.

Article 8. Professional Standards for Ratings Forming Part of a Watch

1. Professional Standards for Able Seamen (OS)

Able Seamen (OS) must meet the professional standards set out in Section A-II/4 of the STCW Code regarding maritime functions at the level of assistance.

2. Professional Standards for Able Seamen (AB)

Able Seamen (AB) must meet the professional standards set out in Sections A-II/4 and A-II/5 of the STCW Code regarding the following functions:

a) Navigation at assistance level;

b) Cargo handling and stowage techniques at assistance level;

c) Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at assistance level;

d) Maintenance and repair at assistance level.

Article 9. Professional Standards for Chief Engineer and Second Engineer of Vessels with Main Propulsion Machinery of 750 kW and Above

Chief Engineer and Second Engineer of vessels with main propulsion machinery of 750 kW and above must meet the professional standards set out in Sections A-III/1, A-III/2, and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Code regarding the following functions:

1. Marine engineering technology at management level.

2. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at management level.

3. Maintenance and repair at management level.

4. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at management level.

Article 10. Professional Standards for Chief Engineer and Second Engineer of Vessels with Main Propulsion Machinery from 75 kW to less than 750 kW and Chief Engineer of Vessels with Main Propulsion Machinery under 75 kW

Chief Engineer and Second Engineer of vessels with main propulsion machinery from 75 kW to less than 750 kW and Chief Engineer of vessels with main propulsion machinery under 75 kW must meet the professional standards set out in the training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport regarding the following functions:

1. Marine engineering technology at management level.

2. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at management level.

3. Maintenance and repair at management level.

4. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at management level.

Article 11. Professional Standards for Engineering Officers of Vessels with Main Propulsion Machinery of 750 kW and Above

Engineering officers on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW and above must meet the professional standards specified in Sections A-III/1 and A-VIII/2 of the STCW Convention regarding the following functions:

1. Marine engineering technology at operational level.

2. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at operational level.

3. Maintenance and repair at operational level.

4. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at operational level.

Article 12. Professional Standards for Engineering Officers of Vessels with Main Propulsion Machinery from 75 kW to less than 750 kW

Engineering Officers of vessels with main propulsion machinery from 75 kW to less than 750 kW must meet the professional standards set out in the training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport regarding the following functions:

1. Marine engineering technology at operational level.

2. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at operational level.

3. Maintenance and repair at operational level.

4. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at operational level.

Article 13. Professional standards for on-duty engineers

1. Professional standards for on-duty Oiler engineers:

On-duty Oiler engineers must meet the professional standards specified in Section A-III/4 of the STCW Code concerning the technical functions of marine engine room machinery at the support level.

2. Professional standards for on-duty AB engineers:

On-duty engineer AB must meet the professional standards specified in Sections A-III/4 and A-III/5 of the STCW Code concerning the following functions:

a) Technical functions of marine engine room machinery at the support level;

b) Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at the support level;

c) Maintenance and repair at the support level;

d) Control of ship operations and care for persons on board at the support level.

Article 14. Professional standards for technical officers in charge of electrical operations

Electrical technical officers must meet the professional standards specified in Section A-III/6 of the STCW Code concerning the following functions:

1. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at the operational level.

2. Maintenance and repair at the operational level.

3. Control of vessel operations and care of persons on board at operational level.

Article 15. Professional standards for technical ratings in charge of electrical operations

Electrical technicians must meet the professional standards specified in Section A-III/7 of the STCW Code concerning the following functions:

1. Electrical, electronic, and machinery control technology at the support level.

2. Maintenance and repair at the support level.

3. Control of ship operations and care for persons on board at the support level.

Chapter III

PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES OF SEAFARERS

Section 1

TYPES OF PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES

Article 16. Classification of professional certificates

The professional certificates of Vietnamese seafarers include the following types:

1. GCNKNCM.

2. GCNHLNV:

a) Basic Vocational Training Certificate (hereinafter referred to as BVTC);

b) Specialized Vocational Training Certificate (hereinafter referred to as SVTC);

c) Professional Vocational Training Certificate (hereinafter referred to as PVTC).

3. The model of professional certificate as prescribed in Appendix I of this Circular.

Article 17. Certificate of Professional Competency

1. The Certificate of Professional Competency (hereinafter referred to as CPCC) is issued by the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration to seafarers to qualify them for positions as stipulated in this Circular, other relevant regulations of Vietnamese law, and in accordance with the provisions of the STCW Convention.

2. The CPCC has a validity period of five years from the date of issuance; in cases where the seafarer's working age does not allow for a full five-year period, the validity period of the CPCC corresponds to the remaining working age of the seafarer as provided for in labor laws.

Article 18. Basic Vocational Training Certificate

1. The BVTC is issued by training institutions to seafarers who have completed the basic vocational training program on survival techniques, fire prevention and extinguishing, basic medical first aid, life safety, social responsibility, and ship security awareness in compliance with the STCW Convention.

2. The BVTC has a validity period of five years from the date of issuance; in cases where the seafarer's working age does not allow for a full five-year period, the validity period of the BVTC corresponds to the remaining working age of the seafarer as provided for in labor laws.

Article 19. Specialized Vocational Training Certificate

1. The SVTC is issued by training institutions to seafarers who have successfully completed one of the specialized vocational training programs in compliance with the STCW Convention, including:

a) Basic oil tanker, chemical tanker, liquefied gas carrier;

b) Advanced oil tanker, chemical tanker, liquefied gas carrier;

c) Crowd management for passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships;

d) Safety training for staff directly serving passengers on passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships;

đ) Passenger safety, cargo safety, and hull integrity training for passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships;

e) Crisis management and human response on passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships.

2. The SVTC has a validity period of five years from the date of issuance; in cases where the seafarer's working age does not allow for a full five-year period, the validity period of the SVTC corresponds to the remaining working age of the seafarer as provided for in labor laws.

Article 20. Professional Vocational Training Certificate

1. The PVTC is issued by training institutions to seafarers who have successfully completed one of the vocational training programs in compliance with the STCW Convention, including:

a) Radar observation and plotting;

b) Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) equipment;

c) Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): General Operator’s Certificate (GOC), Restricted Operator’s Certificate (ROC);

d) Advanced firefighting;

đ) First aid;

e) Medical care;

g) Lifeboat and rescue boat;

h) High-speed rescue boat;

i) Seafarer with specific security duties on board ships;

k) Ship Security Officer;

l) Bridge Team Management;

m) Engine Room Team Management;

n) Maritime English;

o) Electronic navigation charts;

p) Ship safety management;

q) Chief Cook, Steward.

2. The PVTC has a validity period of five years from the date of issuance; in cases where the seafarer's working age does not allow for a full five-year period, the validity period of the PVTC corresponds to the remaining working age of the seafarer as provided for in labor laws.

Section 2

Article 21. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate

Article 21. General conditions

1. Meeting the required working age and health standards as prescribed.

2. Graduated from a specialized maritime training institution in marine engineering, marine machinery operation, or marine electrical engineering, or completed a seafarer officer training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

3. In the following cases, supplementary courses not previously studied or insufficiently studied must be completed:

a) Graduated from other institutions in the specified major under Clause 2 of this Article;

b) Graduated from a specialized maritime training institution in a major within the same field as specified under Clause 2 of this Article.

c) Graduating from a major in inland waterway vessel control, inland waterway vessel machinery, or inland waterway vessel electrical engineering from inland waterway training institutions.

4. Must meet the professional and experience requirements corresponding to each position as stipulated in Articles 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39 of this Circular.

Article 22. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 3,000 GT and above

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated with a bachelor's degree in marine engineering; in case of graduation with an associate degree in marine engineering, must complete the advanced training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 3;

c) Complete the vocational training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

d) Passed the examination for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 3,000 GT and above.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For Chief Officer: have at least 24 months of experience holding the position of Deck Officer on ships with a gross tonnage of 500 GT or more;

b) For Masters: at least 24 months of service as Chief Officer of vessels of 3,000 GT and above, or at least 12 months of service as Master of vessels of 500 GT to less than 3,000 GT and at least 12 months of service as Chief Officer of vessels of 3,000 GT and above.

Article 23. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 500 GT to less than 3,000 GT

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated with an associate degree or higher in marine engineering. In case of graduation with a secondary degree in marine engineering, must complete the advanced training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 2 or higher;

c) Complete the vocational training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

d) Pass the examination for Master and Chief Officer of ships with a gross tonnage of 500 GT to less than 3,000 GT.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For Chief Officer: have at least 24 months of experience holding the position of Deck Officer on ships with a gross tonnage of 500 GT or more;

b) For Masters: at least 24 months of service as Chief Officer of vessels of 500 GT to less than 3,000 GT, or at least 12 months of service as Master of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT nearshore and at least 12 months of service as Chief Officer of vessels of 500 GT to less than 3,000 GT.

Article 24. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT not nearshore

Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT not nearshore must hold a Professional Competence Certificate for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 500 GT and above.

Article 25. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate for Master and Chief Officer of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT nearshore

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a secondary-level or higher nautical control major;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 1 or higher;

c) Completed the short-term vocational training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For Chief Officers: at least 24 months of service as Deck Officer of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT nearshore;

b) For Masters: at least 24 months of service as Chief Officer of vessels of 50 GT to less than 500 GT nearshore.

Article 26. Conditions for Issuing Professional Competence Certificate for Master of vessels under 50 GT

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from junior high school;

b) Completed the short-term specialized training program in marine engineering and passed the examination as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of graduation with a primary degree in marine engineering, only passing the examination is required.

2. Sea Service Experience Condition: have at least 12 months of sea service experience.

Article 27. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Deck Officers on vessels of 500 GT and above

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a maritime navigation control major at a college level or higher, or completed a training program for deck officers in maritime navigation control as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of graduating from a maritime navigation control major at a secondary vocational school level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 2 or higher;

c) Pass the examination for Deck Officer of ships with a gross tonnage of 500 GT or more.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) Having a minimum of 12 months of recorded sea internship in the "Training Record Book" according to the training program meeting the requirements set out in Section A-II/1 of the STCW Convention, or having a minimum of 36 months of sea service on vessels of 500 GT and above, including at least 6 months serving in the capacity of watchkeeping seafarer;

b) In case of having served as a deck officer on vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT in near coastal waters, they must have a minimum of 6 months of sea service on vessels of 500 GT and above.

Article 28. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Deck Officers on vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT not operating in near coastal waters

Deck officers on vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT not operating in near coastal waters must hold a Certificate of Competency for Deck Officers on vessels of 500 GT and above as stipulated in Article 27 of this Circular.

Article 29. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Deck Officers on vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT operating in near coastal waters

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a secondary-level or higher nautical control major;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 1 or higher;

c) Passing the examination for Deck Officers on vessels from 50 GT to less than 500 GT.

2. Service time requirement for holding the position: having a minimum of 36 months of sea service on vessels of 50 GT and above.

Article 30. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Professional Competence for Chief Engineer and Second Engineer on vessels with main engine power of 3,000 kW or more

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a marine machinery operation major at a bachelor's degree level; in case of graduating from a marine machinery operation major at a college level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 3;

c) Completing the professional development program as prescribed by the Ministry of Transport;

d) Achieve the results of the Chief Engineer and Second Engineer examination for vessels with main engine power of 3,000 kW or more.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For Second Engineer: at least 24 months of experience in holding the position of Marine Machinery Officer on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more;

b) For chief engineers: having a minimum of 24 months of service in the position of second engineer on vessels with main engine power of 3000 kW and above, or having a minimum of 12 months of service in the position of chief engineer on vessels with main engine power from 750 kW to below 3000 kW and a minimum of 12 months of service in the position of second engineer on vessels with main engine power of 3000 kW and above.

Article 31. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Professional Competence for Chief Engineer and Second Engineer on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW to less than 3,000 kW

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a marine machinery operation major at a college level or higher. In case of graduating from a marine machinery operation major at a secondary vocational school level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 2 or higher;

c) Complete the vocational training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport;

d) Achieve the results of the Chief Engineer and Second Engineer examination for vessels with main engine power of 750 kW to less than 3,000 kW.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For Second Engineer: at least 24 months of experience in holding the position of Marine Machinery Officer on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more;

b) For chief engineers: having a minimum of 24 months of service in the position of second engineer on vessels with main engine power from 750 kW to below 3000 kW, or having a minimum of 12 months of service in the position of chief engineer on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to below 750 kW and a minimum of 12 months of service in the position of second engineer on vessels with main engine power from 750 kW to below 3000 kW.

Article 32. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Chief Engineers and Second Engineers on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to below 750 kW

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a major in marine machinery operation at the intermediate level or higher;

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 1 or higher;

c) Complete the vocational training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) For second engineers: having a minimum of 24 months of service in the position of marine engineer officer on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to below 750 kW;

b) For chief engineers: having a minimum of 24 months of service in the position of second engineer on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to below 750 kW, or having a minimum of 36 months of service in the position of marine engineer officer on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to below 750 kW.

Article 33. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Professional Competence for Chief Engineer on vessels with main engine power under 75 kW

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from junior high school;

b) Completing a short-term specialized training program in marine machinery operation and passing the examination as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of having graduated from a marine machinery operation major at a basic vocational school level, only passing the examination is required.

2. Sea Service Experience Condition: have at least 12 months of sea service experience.

Article 34. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Marine Engineer Officers on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a marine engineering operation major at a college level or higher, or completed a training program for Marine Engineer Officers in the marine engineering operation field as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of graduating from a marine engineering operation major at a vocational level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 2 or higher;

c) Achieved the results of the examination for Marine Engineer Officers on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more.

2. Conditions for Holding the Position:

a) Having a minimum of 12 months of internship recorded in the "Training Record Book" according to a training program meeting the requirements set out in Section A-III/1 of the STCW Convention, or having a minimum of 36 months of sea service on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more, including at least 6 months serving in the capacity of an engineer watchman.

b) In case they have served in the capacity of a Marine Engineer Officer on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to less than 750 kW, they must have at least 6 months of sea service on vessels with main engine power of 750 kW or more.

Article 35. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Marine Engineer Officers on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to less than 750 kW

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a marine engineering operation major at a secondary level or higher.

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 1 or higher;

c) Passing the examination for Marine Engineer Officers on vessels with main engine power from 75 kW to less than 750 kW.

2. Service time requirement for the position: having a minimum of 36 months of sea service on vessels with main engine power of 75 kW or more.

Article 36. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Watch Ratings

1. Ordinary Seaman (OS):

a) Graduated from a marine navigation control major at a vocational level or higher, or completed theoretical courses according to a training program for Marine Navigation Control Officers in the marine navigation control field as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of graduating from a marine navigation control major at a basic level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Hold a Basic Training Competency Certificate;

c) Having a minimum of 6 months of sea service or a 2-month probationary period as an ordinary seaman.

2. Able Seaman (AB):

a) Graduated from a marine navigation control major at a vocational level; in case of graduating from a marine navigation control major at a basic level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Hold a Basic Training Competency Certificate;

c) Having a minimum of 18 months of sea service or a 12-month probationary period as an able seaman.

Article 37. Conditions for issuing a Certificate of Competency for Engine Watchman (Oiler)

1. Engine Room Rating:

a) Graduated from a marine engineering operation major at a vocational level or higher, or completed theoretical courses according to a training program for Marine Engineer Officers in the marine engineering operation field as prescribed by the Minister of Transport. In case of graduating from a marine engineering operation major at a basic level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Hold a Basic Training Competency Certificate;

c) Having a minimum of 6 months of sea service or a 2-month probationary period as an engine room rating.

2. Engine Room Rating (AB):

a) Graduated from a marine engineering operation major at a vocational level or higher. In case of graduating from a marine engineering operation major at a basic level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Hold a Basic Training Competency Certificate;

c) Having a minimum of 18 months of sea service or a 12-month probationary period as an engine room rating.

Article 38. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Electrical Engineering Officers

1. Professional Conditions:

a) Graduated from a marine electrical engineering major at a college level or higher. In case of graduating from a marine electrical engineering major at a vocational level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

b) Possess Maritime English at Level 2 or higher;

c) Completed the business training program prescribed by the Minister of Transport and achieved the results of the examination for marine electrical engineering officers.

2. Duration of service requirement: Having a minimum of 12 months of internship recorded in the "Training Record Book" according to a training program meeting the requirements set out in Table A-III/6 of the STCW Convention, or having a minimum of 36 months of sea service.

Article 39. Conditions for issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence for Marine Electrical Engineering Technicians

1. Graduated from a marine electrical engineering major at a vocational level or higher. In case of graduating from a marine electrical engineering major at a basic level, they must complete an advanced training program as prescribed by the Minister of Transport.

2. Hold a basic business training certificate.

3. Having a minimum of 6 months of sea service or a 3-month probationary period as an electrical technician.

Section 3

ORGANIZATION OF OFFICER EXAMINATIONS

Article 40. Examination Board for Officers

1. The Examination Board for Officers (hereinafter referred to as the Examination Board) shall be established by the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration, consisting of from five to seven members: The Chairman of the Examination Board shall be a leader of the Vietnam Maritime Administration; other members shall be representatives of relevant functional departments of the Vietnam Maritime Administration, heads of training institutions, and instructors.

2. The Examination Board has the following tasks:

a) Advising the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration to decide on: the list of candidates; establishing the Examination Committee (hereinafter referred to as the Committee) to organize and grade the examination; selecting examination questions for each rank; recognizing the examination results;

b) Organizing, inspecting, and supervising the conduct of examinations;

c) Compiling and reporting examination results;

d) Handling violations of examination regulations.

Article 41. Examination Committee

1. The Examination Committee shall be established by the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration based on the recommendation of the Chairman of the Examination Board.

2. The number of members of the Examination Committee depends on the number of candidates but must have at least three members, of which at least one-third of the members must not directly participate in teaching. Members of the Examination Committee shall be captains, chief engineers, experts in maritime fields, management fields, teachers with pedagogical skills, competence, experience, and corresponding professional qualifications according to the requirements of each examination session.

3. Tasks of the Examination Committee:

a) Strictly, fairly, accurately assessing the candidates' abilities through questioning and grading;

b) Identifying errors in examination questions and promptly recommending adjustments to the Examination Board;

c) Detecting and promptly advising the Chairman of the Examination Board to handle negative phenomena during the examination period.

Section 4

TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION OF SEAFARERS

Article 42. Chief Instructor

1. Chief Instructors are those individuals who have been trained in instructional techniques according to a program prescribed by the Minister of Transport and have been issued a Chief Instructor Certificate.

2. A chief instructor must have experience, professional qualifications, and a training certificate appropriate to the corresponding course; in cases where simulation is used in the course, they must have a certificate appropriate to the simulation program they teach.

3. Only a chief instructor or a person holding a training certificate issued by a foreign country and corresponding to the STCW 1978 Convention as amended in 2010 may be assigned to train for the corresponding courses; instruct seafarers, record practical training logs on board ships.

Article 43. Basic Vocational Training

1. Graduates from maritime vocational training institutions shall be issued a Basic Vocational Training Certificate by such institutions.

2. In cases where seafarers have not undergone basic vocational training, they must complete the basic vocational training program as prescribed and obtain a certificate from the training institution.

Article 44. Specialized Vocational Training

1. Specialized vocational training shall apply to seafarers working on oil tankers, chemical carriers, liquefied gas carriers, passenger ships, and Ro-Ro passenger ships.

2. Specialized vocational training for seafarers working on oil tankers, chemical carriers, and liquefied gas carriers includes basic vocational training and advanced vocational training.

3. Specialized vocational training for seafarers working on passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships includes safety training for staff directly serving passengers in the passenger compartments; passenger safety, cargo safety, and hull integrity training; crowd management and crisis management.

4. For oil tankers, chemical carriers, and liquefied gas carriers, a Certificate of Familiarization Training shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the familiarization training program.

5. For oil tankers, chemical carriers, and liquefied gas carriers, a Certificate of Advanced Training shall be issued to captains, chief engineers, first officers, second engineers, officers, and other crew members responsible for loading/unloading and caring for cargo who have completed the advanced training program.

6. For passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships, a Certificate of Specialized Vocational Training shall be issued to individuals who have completed one or all of the following training programs:

a) Captains, first officers, officers, and other crew members tasked with assisting passengers in emergency situations have completed crowd management vocational training programs.

b) Captains, first officers, chief engineers, second engineers, and other crew members responsible for passenger embarkation/disembarkation, cargo handling, securing, opening/closing side doors, bow doors, and stern doors have completed the training program on passenger safety, cargo safety, and hull integrity;

c) Captains, first officers, chief engineers, second engineers, and other crew members responsible for passenger safety in emergency situations have completed the training program on crisis management and emergency response behavior.

d) Crew members directly serving passengers in passenger areas have completed safety vocational training programs.

Article 45. Professional Training

1. Radar Observation and Plotting: The certificate of professional training for radar observation and plotting shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers who have completed the radar observation and plotting course.

2. ARPA: The certificate of professional training for ARPA shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers who have completed the ARPA course.

3. GMDSS:

a) General Operator's Certificate (GOC) for GMDSS: This certificate shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers working on ships equipped with GMDSS operating in areas A2, A3, and A4 who have completed the general operator's course for GMDSS.

b) Restricted Operator's Certificate (ROC) for GMDSS: This certificate shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers working on ships equipped with GMDSS operating in area A1 who have completed the restricted operator's course for GMDSS.

4. Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS): The certificate of professional training on ECDIS shall be issued to captains, chief officers, and deck officers who have completed the ECDIS course.

5. Bridge Resource Management: The certificate of professional training for bridge resource management shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers who have completed the bridge resource management course.

6. Engine Room Resource Management: The certificate of professional training for engine room resource management shall be issued to chief engineers, second engineers, and engine officers who have completed the engine room resource management course.

7. Maritime Security Awareness: The certificate of professional training for maritime security awareness shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the maritime security awareness course.

8. Specific Security Duties Seafarer: The certificate of professional training for specific security duties seafarer shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the course for seafarers with specific security duties.

9. Marine Security Officer: The certificate of professional training for marine security officer shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and deck officers who have completed the marine security officer course.

10. Advanced Firefighting: The certificate of professional training for advanced firefighting shall be issued to deck officers, engine officers who have completed the advanced firefighting program.

11. First Aid: The certificate of professional training for first aid shall be issued to deck officers, engine officers who have completed the first aid program.

12. Medical Care: The certificate of professional training for medical care shall be issued to captains, chief mates, and seafarers responsible for medical care on board who have completed the medical care program.

13. Lifeboat and Rescue Boat: The certificate of professional training for lifeboat and rescue boat shall be issued to deck officers, engine officers, sailors, and mechanics who have completed the lifeboat and rescue boat program.

14. High-Speed Rescue Boat: The certificate of professional training for high-speed rescue boat shall be issued to deck officers, engine officers, boatswains, and mechanics working on ships equipped with high-speed rescue boats who have completed the high-speed rescue boat program.

Seafarers wishing to obtain the certificate of professional training for high-speed rescue boat must hold the certificate of professional training for lifeboat and rescue boat.

15. Ship Safety Management: The certificate of professional training for ship safety management shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the ship safety management course.

16. Maritime English: The certificate of maritime English shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the maritime English course.

17. Chief Cook and Steward: The certificate of professional training for chief cook and steward shall be issued to seafarers who have completed the chief cook and steward course.

Article 46. Training and instruction facilities for seafarers

Training and instruction facilities for seafarers must ensure material conditions and lecturers in accordance with the regulations of the Government.

Article 47. Training and instruction programs for seafarers

1. The maritime crew training program includes:

a) A specialized vocational training program to issue the Certificate of Competency (CoC);

b) A vocational training program to issue the Certificate of Proficiency (CoP).

2. Based on the professional standards and certificates of seafarers specified in Chapter II and Chapter III of this Circular and the International Maritime Organization's model courses (IMO Model Course), training and instruction facilities shall develop training and instruction programs to be promulgated by the Minister of Transport.

3. Based on the approved training programs, training and crew training bases shall develop detailed programs, textbooks, and teaching materials.

Section 5

ISSUANCE, REISSUANCE, RECOGNITION, AND VERIFICATION

PROFESSIONAL CAPABILITY CERTIFICATE, INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING CERTIFICATE

Article 48. Issuance of Certificate Recognizing Professional Capability Certificate

1. The recipients are foreign seafarers working on Vietnamese-flagged vessels.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents for recognition of the Professional Capability Certificate directly, through postal services, or by other appropriate means to the Vietnam Maritime Administration. The application includes:

a) A request letter from the crew management organization according to the form specified in Appendix II of this Circular;

b) A copy of the Professional Capability Certificate;

c) Two color photographs, size 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to identity card photos, taken within the last six months.

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives the application, checks the components and quantity of the application in accordance with the regulations, registers it in the logbook, and schedules the issuance of the result within the prescribed time limit:

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration returns the application and immediately guides organizations and individuals to complete the application in accordance with the regulations;

b) In cases where the application is received through postal services or by other appropriate means, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration notifies in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the application;

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving a complete application according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration issues the Certificate Recognizing the Professional Capability Certificate according to the model specified in Appendix I of this Circular; in cases where the certificate is not issued, a written response must be provided with clear reasons.

4. Fees and charges: fees and charges for issuing the Certificate Recognizing the Professional Capability Certificate are implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 49. Issuance of Professional Capability Certificates for Watch Ratings, Engine Room Ratings, and Electrical Technicians

1. The recipients are seafarers holding the positions of watch ratings, engine room ratings, and electrical technicians as stipulated in this Circular and the STCW Convention.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents for the issuance of the Professional Capability Certificate for watch ratings, engine room ratings, and electrical technicians directly or by mail or by other appropriate means to the Vietnam Maritime Administration. The application includes:

a) Application form of the seafarer according to the model prescribed in Appendix III or the application document of the school or management organization of seafarers according to the model prescribed in Appendix IV of this Circular;

b) A certified copy or a copy with the original for comparison: graduation diploma or Graduation Certificate or Graduation Decision; Certificate of supplementary training or advanced training (if applicable); Basic Competence Training Certificate;

c) Original or certified copy of health examination certificate according to the regulations of the Ministry of Health;

d) Two color photographs, size 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to identity card photos, taken within the last six months;

đ) Certificate confirming the period of probationary watchkeeping (for cases of supplementary training, advanced training, or only having a basic vocational qualification) according to the model specified in Appendix XV of this Circular.

e) For cases applying for the issuance of the Professional Capability Certificate for Able Seamen (AB) and Able Engineers (AB) who already have the Professional Capability Certificate for Ordinary Seamen (OS) and Oilers, they must submit the application components specified in point a, c, d of this clause and a certified copy or a copy with the original for comparison of the Seaman’s Book.

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives the application, checks the components and quantity of the application in accordance with the regulations, registers it in the logbook, and schedules the issuance of the result within the prescribed time limit:

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration returns the application and immediately guides organizations and individuals to complete the application in accordance with the regulations;

b) In cases where the application is received through postal services or by other appropriate means, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration notifies in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the application;

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving a complete application according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration issues the Professional Capability Certificate for watch ratings, engine room ratings, and electrical technicians on board ships according to the model specified in Appendix I of this Circular; in cases where the certificate is not issued, a written response must be provided with clear reasons.

4. Fees and charges: fees and charges for issuing the Professional Capability Certificate are implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 50. Issuance of Certificate of Issuance of Certificate

1. Vietnamese radio operators who have been issued General Operator's Certificate (GOC), Restricted Operator's Certificate (ROC), and Oil Tanker, Chemical Tanker, or Liquefied Gas Ship Competency Training Certificate by training institutions shall be issued a Certificate of Issuance of Certificate by the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents for confirmation of issuance of certificates directly or through postal services or other appropriate means to the Vietnam Maritime Administration. The application includes:

a) Application form of seafarers according to the model prescribed in Appendix V or the request document of seafarer management organizations according to the model at Appendix VI of this Circular;

b) Certified copy or original copy with original for comparison: GOC, ROC, Oil Tanker, Chemical Tanker, or Liquefied Gas Ship Competency Training Certificate;

c) Two color photographs measuring 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to identity card photos taken within the last six months.

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives applications, checks the components and quantity of documents in accordance with regulations, registers them in the logbook, and schedules the return of results within the stipulated time limit.

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration returns the application and immediately guides organizations and individuals to complete the application in accordance with the regulations;

b) In cases where the application is received through postal services or by other appropriate means, if the application is incomplete according to the regulations, the Vietnam Maritime Administration notifies in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the application;

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving complete documents as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration issues a Certificate of Issuance of Certificate according to the model prescribed in Appendix I of this Circular. In case of non-issuance, a written response must be provided with clear reasons stated.

4. Fees and charges: fees and charges for confirming the issuance of GOC, ROC, and Oil Tanker, Chemical Tanker, or Liquefied Gas Ship Competency Training Certificates shall be implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 51. Issuance of Chief Instructor Certificate

1. The subjects to be issued are trainers and seafarers who meet the conditions stipulated in this Circular and the STCW Convention.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents for issuance of Chief Instructor Certificate directly or through postal services or other appropriate means to the Vietnam Maritime Administration. The application includes:

a) Application form for Chief Instructor Certificate of instructors according to the model prescribed in Appendix VII of this Circular or the request document of schools or training institutions according to the model prescribed in Appendix VIII of this Circular;

b) Original or certified copy or copy with original for comparison confirming completion of the chief instructor course or graduation decision for the chief instructor course.

c) Two color photographs measuring 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to identity card photos taken within the last six months.

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives applications, checks the components and quantity of documents in accordance with regulations, registers them in the logbook, and schedules the return of results within the stipulated time limit.

a) In case of direct submission, if the application is not complete as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will return the application and immediately guide the organization or individual to complete it according to the regulations.

b) In case of receipt of applications through postal services or other appropriate means, if the application is not complete as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will notify in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the application.

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving complete documents as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration issues a Chief Instructor Certificate according to the model prescribed in Appendix I of this Circular. In case of non-issuance, a written response must be provided with clear reasons stated.

4. Fees and charges: fees and charges for issuing the Chief Trainer Certificate shall be implemented according to the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 52. Reissuance of Professional Competence Certificate, Certificate of Issuance of Certificate, Recognition of Professional Competence Certificate, and Chief Instructor Certificate

1. The reissuance targets are seafarers whose Professional Competence Certificate (PCC), Certificate of Issuance of Certificate, Recognition of PCC, and Chief Instructor Certificate are lost, damaged, contain incorrect information, or have expired. For PCCs that have expired, the seafarer must have held a position corresponding to the PCC for a total of twelve months or more within five years from the date of requesting reissuance; if this period is not met, the seafarer must undergo three months of probation in the corresponding position within six months prior to requesting reissuance.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application documents for reissuance of certificates directly or through postal services or other appropriate means to the Vietnam Maritime Administration. The application includes:

a) Original certificate, certificate of issuance, or recognition document for cases where the certificate has expired, contains incorrect information, or is damaged (in cases where seafarers on distant assignments cannot submit the original PCC, they must submit it within seven days from the date of returning to Vietnam);

b) Legal documents proving corrections for cases of incorrect information;

c) Two color photographs measuring 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to identity card photos, taken within the last six months;

d) Certified copy or original copy of health examination certificate according to the regulations of the Ministry of Health (for reissuance of PCC);

đ) Certified copy or original copy of seafarer’s logbook (for reissuance of PCC).

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives applications, checks the components and quantity of documents in accordance with regulations, registers them in the logbook, and schedules the return of results within the stipulated time limit.

a) In case of direct submission, if the application is not complete as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will return the application and immediately guide the organization or individual to complete it according to the regulations.

b) In case of receipt of applications through postal services or other appropriate means, if the application is not complete as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration will notify in writing within two working days from the date of receipt of the application.

c) Within two working days from the date of receiving complete documents as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration reissues the Certificate according to the model prescribed in Appendix I of this Circular. In case of non-reissuance, a written response must be provided with clear reasons stated.

4. Fees and charges: fees and charges for reissuing certificates shall be implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 53. Procedures for Unlocking Training Courses and Issuing Certificates of Professional Competence for Officers, Masters, and Chief Engineers

1. Organizations and individuals submit one set of application files for each trainee participating in the training course or refresher course; directly take the examination for officers, masters, and chief engineers or send the files through postal service or other appropriate means to the training and education institution. The file includes:

a) The application form according to the model prescribed in Appendix XI of this Circular;

b) A certified copy or a copy with the original for verification of the Graduation Certificate or Completion Certificate of the maritime officer training program, or the Advanced Training Certificate (if applicable);

c) A certified copy of the Certificate of Professional Competence and the Seafarer's English Language Certificate;

d) The original or a certified copy of the Health Examination Certificate according to the regulations of the Ministry of Health;

đ) A declaration of sea service time (no confirmation from the seafarer management organization is required) according to the model prescribed in Appendix XII of this Circular;

e) A certified copy of the Seafarer’s Record Book;

g) Two color photographs, size 3 cm x 4 cm, similar to the identification card, taken within the last six months.

2. The training and education institution receives and checks the files. In cases where the files do not comply with regulations, the training and education institution immediately guides organizations and individuals to complete the files according to the regulations.

3. Within two working days from the date of receiving all required files, the training and education institution submits one set of files directly to the Vietnam Maritime Administration or sends them through postal service or other appropriate means. The file includes:

a) A request letter from the training and education institution regarding the review of the list of trainees participating in the advanced training course, refresher course, and examination for officers, masters, and chief engineers, following the model specified in Appendix XIII of this Circular;

b) One set of trainee's application documents (to be submitted together);

4. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives, checks, reviews the files, and issues a decision recognizing the list of persons eligible to participate in the training and education courses and examinations within five working days from the date of receiving all required files. If the conditions are not met, a written notice must be issued along with the specific reasons.

5. Based on the report of the examination results for officers, masters, and chief engineers by the Examination Board, the Vietnam Maritime Administration issues a decision recognizing the examination results and issuing the Certificate of Professional Competence within five working days from the date of receiving the examination reports.

Article 54. Revocation of Seafarers' Professional Certificates

Seafarers' professional certificates will be revoked if the seafarer falsifies documents, alters, forges, buys, rents, or lends their professional certificate. The authority responsible for issuing and reissuing professional certificates shall be responsible for revoking them.

Chapter IV

MINIMUM SAFE MANPOWER FOR SHIPS

Article 55. Minimum Crewing Levels for Safety

1. General Provisions for Vietnamese Ships

a) Minimum safe manning for deck department based on gross tonnage (GT):

(*) In case the Deck Officer holds a professional certificate suitable for operating the GMDSS radio equipment on board, there is no need to assign the position of GMDSS Radio Operator Officer.

b) Minimum safe manning for engine department based on main engine power (kW):

2. For vessels equipped with complex and diverse electrical systems, the shipowner may arrange for an Electrical Officer and an Electrical Rating.

3. For certain special cases (short-sea routes, high levels of automation...), based on the technical characteristics, level of automation, and operating area of the vessel, the Ship Registration Authority decides on the minimum safe crewing levels suitable for the actual operation and utilization of the vessel.

4. For passenger ships and Ro-Ro passenger ships, based on the technical characteristics, number of passengers, and operating area of the vessel, the Ship Registration Authority decides on the minimum safe crewing levels but must allocate at least one additional crew member responsible for passengers compared to the provisions of Clause 1 of this Article.

5. For public service vessels, based on the size of the vessel, technical characteristics, and operating area, the Ship Registration Authority decides on the minimum safe crewing levels.

6. The Certificate of Minimum Safe Manning according to the model specified in Appendix XIV of this Circular.

Article 56. Crewing Arrangements on Vietnamese Vessels

1. The ship owner shall be responsible for allocating crew members to work on Vietnamese ships in accordance with the conditions stipulated in Article 59 of the Vietnamese Maritime Code.

2. Crew allocation to assume positions on Vietnamese ships must meet the following requirements:

a) Must hold a Certificate of Professional Competence and a Certificate of Competency in Navigation and Seamanship corresponding to the position they undertake;

b) Crew members assigned to work on oil tankers, chemical carriers, liquefied gas carriers, passenger ships, and Ro-Ro passenger ships, in addition to the Certificate of Professional Competence and the Certificates of Competency in Navigation and Seamanship required for general vessels, must also have Certificates of Competency in Navigation and Seamanship corresponding to their positions on these types of vessels.

3. Principles for Position Allocation in Certain Special Cases:

a) Regarding the arrangement of the positions of Master, Chief Mate, Chief Engineer, Second Engineer, Boatswain, and Engine Officer working on tugboats, construction vessels, search and rescue vessels, and other public service vessels, the Vietnam Maritime Administration bases on the size of the vessel, technical characteristics, and operating area to guide the Ship Registration Authority to implement;

b) In cases where the Master or Chief Engineer cannot continue to perform their duties while the vessel is underway at sea, the shipowner or the vessel operator can assign the Chief Mate or Second Engineer to replace the Master or Chief Engineer to continue the voyage but only until the first port of call;

c) The Master of a passenger ship must have at least 24 months of experience serving as Master of a non-passenger ship of the same class or at least 24 months of experience serving as Chief Mate of a passenger ship.

Chapter V

TRAINING ON BOARD SHIPS

Article 57. Responsibilities of Training and Education Institutions for Seafarers

1. Training institutions for seafarers must develop plans for trainees to undergo practical training on board ships according to the requirements of the training program.

2. If training institutions for seafarers do not have training ships, they must cooperate with other training institutions or ship owners to obtain ships for training purposes.

3. Contact ship owners to accept trainees for practical training on board ships as required by the training program.

Article 58. Responsibilities of the Ship Owner for Accepting Trainees on Board Seagoing Vessels

1. Provide information on annual training needs, crew usage, and recruitment to the competent maritime management authority.

2. Organize orders with training institutions for seafarers to train and recruit personnel to work at enterprises.

3. Participate in building training programs and curricula; organize guidance for internships, evaluate the results of trainees at enterprises; accept trainees, lecturers, trainers to visit, practice, and enhance their skills through contracts with training and training institutions.

4. Accept, arrange accommodation and meals, create conditions for trainees, lecturers, and trainers to intern on board seagoing vessels. Pay wages and fees to trainees, lecturers, and trainers who directly work or participate in work on the vessel during training and internship according to the level agreed upon in the contract.

Article 59. Responsibilities of the Master, Chief Engineer, and Marine Officers towards Trainees on Board Seagoing Vessels

1. The ship owner assigns the master, chief engineer, and marine officers to undertake the responsibility of guiding trainees, lecturers, and trainers during their internships on board.

2. The master, chief engineer, and marine officers have the responsibility to guide, train, instruct, confirm, and assess the contents and results of trainees' internships on board seagoing vessels according to the internship schedule.

3. The master and chief engineer are responsible for confirming the time of disembarkation of trainees from the vessel in the Crew Logbook and bear responsibility for their confirmation.

Article 60. Responsibilities of Trainees on Board Seagoing Vessels

1. Trainees on board ships must have a Seafarer's Logbook and a certificate of vocational training appropriate to the type of ship they are training on.

2. Trainees must comply with the internal regulations and rules of the ship owner, perform tasks as directed by the master, chief engineer, marine officers, lecturers, and trainers.

3. The system and benefits of trainees working on Vietnamese seagoing vessels are implemented in accordance with Vietnamese laws and relevant international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a member.

Chapter VI

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 61. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from July 1, 2017.

2. Abolish the following Circulars:

a) Circular No. 11/2012/TT-BGTVT dated April 12, 2012, issued by the Minister of Transport regarding the professional standards, professional certificates of seafarers, and the minimum safety manning levels of Vietnamese seagoing vessels;

b) Circular No. 51/2013/TT-BGTVT dated December 11, 2013, issued by the Minister of Transport amending and supplementing certain articles of Circular No. 11/2012/TT-BGTVT dated April 12, 2012, issued by the Minister of Transport regarding the professional standards, professional certificates of seafarers, and the minimum safety manning levels of Vietnamese seagoing vessels;

c) Circular No. 52/2014/TT-BGTVT dated October 20, 2014, issued by the Minister of Transport amending and supplementing certain articles of Circular No. 11/2012/TT-BGTVT dated April 12, 2012, issued by the Minister of Transport regarding the professional standards, professional certificates of seafarers, and the minimum safety manning levels of Vietnamese seagoing vessels.

Article 62. Implementation Organization

1. The Vietnam Maritime Administration is responsible for organizing the implementation of this Circular in coordination with related agencies and organizations.

2. The Director of the Ministry's Office, the Inspector General of the Ministry, the Heads of Departments, the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration, the heads of agencies, organizations, and individuals related to this Circular shall be responsible for its implementation./.