Seafarer's Identity Documents

Seafarer's Identity Documents (SIDs) are a form of identification for mariners that are recognized internationally. These documents are issued by a country's maritime authority, and they serve as proof that the holder is a seafarer as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO). SIDs are crucial for the facilitation of travel for seafarers, as they often need to cross international borders for their work. They are also used for security purposes, as they can help to prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access to ships. The documents contain personal details of the seafarer, including their name, nationality, date of birth, and a photograph. They also include details about the seafarer's professional qualifications and experience. The ILO's Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), sets out the standards for the issue of SIDs, including the requirement for them to incorporate biometric data to prevent fraud.