If you want to work on a commercial ship, cruise ship, ferry, or Superyacht, you need more than a passport. There’s another little book that you need: Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) popularly known as Seaman’s Book.
Here in the Philippines, you can get a seaman’s book after you pass the Basic Safety Training. Seaman’s Book is a major requirement for all seafarers and the sole agency that issues this is the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
With the advancement of digital technology, it’s now easy to get a seaman’s book using MARINA’s online system called MISMO.
Gone are those days when people seafarers had to endure long lines. Thanks to the internet, MARINA has now found a way to computerize the application.
You can just use your phone or computer to apply and set an appointment at your most convenient time. Let’s see how to get a seaman’s book using the Marina Integrated Seafarers Management Online (MISMO) system.
Create your MISMO account
1. Open your browser and go to https://online-appointment.marina.gov.ph/
2. Click the Sign Up button if you’re a new applicant. If you have an existing SCS account, sign in using your SCS username and password. You can also choose to sign in via SIRB.
3. Register a new account
4. Fill out the required information. Accept the Terms and Conditions. Then click the Register button.
5. Verify your email account to complete your registration. Once verified, you can start setting an appointment for your SIRB application or renewal.
Update your profile information
1. Go back to the MARINA-MISMO homepage to sign in. Tick the reCAPTCHA box to confirm that you are not a robot.
2. Fill out the needed information. Upload a valid profile picture. According to Marina’s standard, the picture should be taken on a white background with the applicant wearing a plain white polo.
3. Make sure all information is correct before hitting the “Save Changes” button on the screen.
Select your transaction
1. Click the Transaction button. Choose “SIRB”. The processing time can either be regular or expedited. Choose your preferred MARINA office and the type of transaction whether first-time application or renewal.
2. Remember to tick the box to declare that your profile records are updated and then click “Proceed“
3. MARINA will send you a text message reminding you to bring the original copies of the documents you need to upload. You will be directed to the “Application Information” window showing the details of your application including the requirements.
Complete the documentary requirements
Prepare the documentary requirements before getting an appointment. Doing so will ensure faster and hassle-free processing.
For new applicants for seaman’s book
Regular seafarers who want to apply for the Seaman’s Book must prepare a photocopy of the following documents:
- Birth Certificate on Security Paper issued by Philippine Statistics Authority or Passport issued by the DFA;
- If you are female and applying for a change of surname, bring a Marriage Contract;
- NBI Clearance (Purpose: VISA SEAMAN)
- Valid Basic Training (If BST, include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher)
- Documentary stamp
If you are a cadet applying for issuance of SIRB for a shipboard apprenticeship, prepare the photocopy of the following documents:
- Birth Certificate on SECPA issued by Philippine Statistics Authority or Passport
- Transcript of Records from MARINA-accredited Maritime Higher Education Institution or MHEI;
- NBI Clearance (Purpose: VISA SEAMAN)
- Valid Basic Training (If BST, include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher)
- Documentary stamp
For SIRP Renewal
Regular seafarers who are renewing their Seaman’s Book must submit a photocopy of the following documentary requirements:
- Expired or Expiring SIRB;
- If you are a female and applying for a change in name, please present a marriage certificate;
- Valid NBI Clearance (Purpose: VISA SEAMAN);
- Valid Basic Training (If BST, include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher)
- MARINA Computerized photograph; and
- Documentary stamp;
If you are a licensed officer, bring these additional documents along with the above-mentioned requirements during your scheduled date and time.
- MARINA ID
- Certificate of Proficiency
- Certificate of Endorsement
- You can bring your uniform for picture taking or you may opt to rent one in MARINA for a fee.
Do not forget to bring the original documents (for verification purposes) when you apply or renew for the SIRB. The MARINA Computerized photograph is strictly availed inside the MARINA office only. You can buy the documentary stamp inside the MARINA Office for about P20.
Review the required documents and upload scanned copies of them. Keep the file less than 1 MB. Otherwise, they will not be accepted. You can simply use your phone to take pictures. Click “Submit” when you’re finished.
Once you submitted your application, your profile will be checked and verified by the “MARINA Online Evaluating Team”. It may take 24 hours, sometimes even more. It’s important that your profile photo is appropriate and the required documents are complete for a faster review and response from them. You can review the status of your application by signing in to your MISMO account.
If your application has been approved, you will receive a text message informing you that you can now set an “Online Appointment” through your MISMO account. If it has been denied, you can view the details by logging in to your account and clicking the “Application” tab.
Set your SIRP appointment
1. Log in to your MISMO account. Click the “Application” tab then click the “For Appointment” button.
2. You will be directed to the “Slot Locator” Tab. Here you can choose your desired time and date for your final evaluation. Select the MARINA branch near you.
3. Lastly, click “Proceed”. A confirmation will appear that says: Appointment set successfully!
Pay the fee within 18 hours
1. After clicking “Proceed”, you will be directed to the “Payment” page. Read the guidelines on how you can pay for your transaction.
2. Click the “Proceed” button again then click “Confirm”. MARINA will send you a text message with your payment reference number.
3. Pay the fee in any of MARINA’s partner payment centers. You only have 18 hours to pay. Beyond that time, your transaction will lapse and you have to reset your appointment.
4. Once the fee was settled, this will show in your MISMO account.
Show for final evaluation
1. Take note of your appointment date and do not forget about it. Show up early, at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Don’t be late.
2. Finally, go to your selected MARINA office and bring original, and photocopies of your documents.
3. Your seaman’s book will be released after everything has been checked and verified.
Final thoughts
That’s it! That’s how easy it is to get a seaman’s book using MISMO. Once it lands on your hands open the book quickly. Contemplate the empty pages that are all looking bare and dull. Now imagine the many stamps soon this tiny book will have.
Above all, imagine the countless places it will take you to. It’s your ticket to a grand adventure. Maybe, your doorway to the world.
