Maritime medicine

• How much is charged for the medical fitness examination?

The examination of fitness for sea service is free of charge for young persons under the age of 18 and for employees and self-employed persons working in the shipping business and paying contributions for the occupational accident insurance to the BG Verkehr. Prior to the examination the recognized medical practitioners establish whether applicants are entitled to cost exemption. Click here for a specimen form of insurance facilitating cost exemption. For young persons it is sufficient to prove their age with their official identity card.
For everyone else the charge of an examination will be approximately €100, depending on the scope of the examination. Among others, seafarers under foreign flag or those who are only insured with either health or pension insurance have to pay the examination themselves.

• How long will my medical certificate be valid?

Medical certificates for sea service in the deck or engine department are usually valid for two years. For young persons under the age of 18 the period of validity is limited to one year.

• May also my family doctor carry out the medical fitness examination?

No, the medical fitness examinations may only be performed by physicians who have been authorized by the maritime medical service. Please find here the up-to-date list of recognized medical practitioners.

• I consume cannabis regularly. Does this make me unfit for sea-service?

Yes, the regular consumption of cannabis makes one unfit for sea-service. Smoking cannabis regularly leads directly to lesser performance in perception, attention and the capacity of reaction. In addition several substantial side effects can occur – among other things, sedation, sleepiness, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting or fever. There is a difference whether one consumes cannabis in a private setting (legally or illegally, is not relevant) or in a professional capacity on board a sea-going vessel, where an emergency or recues situation that requires a minimum degree of capability may occur at any time.