MCA Endorsement in Malta — Transfer Your CoC to an EU Flag

Malta offers one of the fastest routes to convert a non-EU Certificate of Competency (CoC) into an EU-recognised maritime qualification. Through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) endorsement process administered by Transport Malta, seafarers with valid CoCs from ILO Convention 108/185 countries can work on EU-flagged vessels within weeks.

Why choose Malta for your MCA endorsement?

Malta is the largest EU flag state by vessel count. Transport Malta administers the endorsement process for seafarers holding CoCs from countries with bilateral recognition agreements.

Key advantages:

• Fast processing: Endorsement typically completed in 2–4 weeks
• EU flag benefits: Work on any EU-flagged vessel, access EU waters without additional documentation
• Cost-effective: Lower fees than UK MCA direct endorsement
• Recognised globally: Malta CoC accepted by Port State Control in all major maritime regions

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for a Malta MCA endorsement if you hold a valid CoC from:

• ILO Convention 108 countries — seafarer identity documents recognised by Malta
• ILO Convention 185 countries — updated seafarer identity document standard
• STCW Convention parties — countries that are signatories to the STCW Convention
• Bilateral recognition countries — countries with specific maritime training agreements with Malta

Your CoC must be current and valid. Expired certificates are not accepted for endorsement.

The endorsement process

The Malta endorsement process involves three main steps:

1. Application submission

Submit your application to Transport Malta with your original CoC, passport, medical certificate (ENG1 or equivalent), and proof of sea service. Applications can be submitted online or in person at the Maritime Safety Directorate.

2. Document verification

Transport Malta verifies your CoC against the list of recognised qualifications. If your CoC is from a Convention 108/185 country, verification is typically straightforward. Additional assessments may be required for CoCs not on the standard list.

3. Certificate issuance

Upon approval, Transport Malta issues a Malta Certificate of Competency bearing the EU flag endorsement. This certificate is valid for the same period as your original CoC and must be renewed through the same process.

Required documents

• Original Certificate of Competency (and certified translation if not in English)
• Valid passport or national ID
• Medical certificate (ENG1 or equivalent from your flag state)
• Proof of sea service (discharge book or seaman’s book)
• Passport-size photographs
• Application fee (varies by rank — contact Transport Malta for current schedule)

Training requirements

In some cases, additional training may be required before endorsement. This typically includes:

• GMDSS operator certificate (if applicable to your rank)
• STCW Basic Safety Training (if your original CoC does not include BST)
• Flag state-specific regulations course

For the STCW training components (BST, GMDSS, advanced courses), Transport Malta accepts online courses from approved providers recognised by the STCW Convention parties. One such provider is Marine Pro Academy (MPA), which offers the full STCW Basic Safety Training bundle required for entry-level maritime roles. Note that a flag-state-specific regulations course is delivered by Transport Malta or its recognised training centres, not by online providers.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Malta endorsement take?

Typically 2–4 weeks from application to certificate issuance, provided all documents are in order and your CoC is from a recognised country.

Can I work on UK vessels with a Malta endorsement?

Yes. Malta is an EU flag state and its CoCs are recognised internationally. However, some UK operators may require additional documentation depending on the specific operation.

Do I need to surrender my original CoC?

No. Transport Malta returns your original CoC after verification. The Malta endorsement is an additional certificate, not a replacement.

What ranks can be endorsed?

All ranks from Master to ratings can apply for endorsement, provided their original CoC meets the STCW Convention standards for their level.

See also: Malta maritime employment guide | STCW Basic Safety Training | Compare flag states