Seafarer documentsPersonal documents
Seafarer identity document (SID)
SID
- Full entry
- Checked 6 October 2026
- Document type
- Personal document
- Validity
- As shown on the issued document
Contents3
1 What it covers
Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID) identifies a seafarer for shore leave, joining a vessel and repatriation procedures covered by the applicable agreement. It is needed by seafarers holding a seafarer identity document. Validity: as shown on the issued document.1–4
2 Validity and renewal
Document validity. The expiry date, if the issuing system sets one, is shown on the document itself. This reference does not calculate personal expiry dates.
Maximum period. Under ILO Convention No. 185 the issuing State sets the validity period, but it may not exceed 10 years, with renewal after the first 5 years. Under the earlier Convention No. 108 the period is set by national rules.3,4
Maintaining competence. There is no international renewal interval for this document.3,4
3 Frequently asked questions
How long is the Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID) valid?
The expiry date, if the issuing system sets one, is shown on the document itself. This reference does not calculate personal expiry dates. Under ILO Convention No. 185 the issuing State sets the validity period, but it may not exceed 10 years, with renewal after the first 5 years. Under the earlier Convention No. 108 the period is set by national rules. There is no international renewal interval for this document.3,4
What else is the Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID) called?
Also known as Seaman's Identity Document (SID).