Indian seafarers have faced long-standing issues at airports, including repeated questioning, document doubts, and even denial of boarding. These challenges became more common at major airports over the past year, especially in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi. To address this growing problem, the Directorate General of Shipping has officially introduced a new secure format of Form-1, Form-1A, and Form-1B.
This step aims to ensure uniform verification at immigration points, providing safer and smoother airport clearance for all Indian seafarers and marine-support staff. The new forms also strengthen the authenticity of travel documents linked with the official e-Migrate system.
DDG (Crew) Capt. P.C. Meena explained that this major change was urgently needed because airlines and immigration officers frequently doubted the old Form-1, which was editable and prone to misuse. Even when seafarers carried all valid documents, visas, OKTB, CDC, employment letters, and e-Migrate system ARN records, airline staff often questioned the authenticity of their Form-1 due to its editable nature.
This created unnecessary stress moments before boarding and sometimes resulted in the heartbreaking situation of a crew member being denied boarding despite having a valid job assignment abroad.
The new forms provide a complete solution.
Why the New Form-1 System Was Necessary
The older version of Form-1 was not secure. It could be edited, modified, or altered in common software. Because of this, airlines became suspicious of whether the document was real or not. This caused doubt and slowed the movement of Indian seafarers, directly affecting ship-joining schedules and international crew changes.
Airports officially reported multiple cases to DG Shipping, which highlighted the need for a secure document for smooth airport clearance. The final decision was made after observing repeated issues across different airports.
To remove these obstacles permanently, DG Shipping redesigned the system to make the documents tamper-proof and directly traceable through the e-Migrate system.
Categories of New Forms: Who Needs Which Form?
The new circular clearly explains which professionals must use which form. This ensures uniform documentation and easier airport clearance.
1. Form-1 — For Indian Seafarers on Foreign-Flag Vessels
Every Indian joining a foreign-registered vessel must carry this new secure version of Form-1. This category includes officers and ratings sailing on cargo ships, tankers, offshore vessels, bulk carriers, cruise ships, and other foreign-flag operations.
2. Form-1A — For Indian Seafarers on Indian-Flag Vessels
This document is strictly for seafarers joining vessels registered under the Indian flag. Even if a company operates international routes, the form depends on vessel flag, not voyage area.
3. Form-1B — For Non-Seafarer Marine Support Staff
This form covers those who are not seafarers but still travel internationally for maritime work. This includes:
- Technicians
- Marine engineers on temporary duty
- Surveyors
- OEM specialists
- Hotel crew for cruise ships
- Ship repair teams
- Maritime trainers travelling to vessels
- Other marine professionals on short-term tasks
All older forms are now invalid. No editable version or older template of Form-1 is accepted at any immigration checkpoint.
Security Features Added to the New Forms
The newly introduced forms come with strong built-in security features to ensure that no one can alter or misuse them. This also gives airlines and immigration officers confidence during the verification process.
✔ Non-Editable PDF Format
The new Form-1 cannot be edited. Once generated through the official portal, it stays locked. This resolves the biggest issue with the earlier form.
✔ DGS Logo Watermark
The embedded watermark ensures authenticity and confirms direct issuance from DG Shipping.
✔ e-Migrate ARN Watermark
Each form is tied to the traveller’s e-Migrate system ARN number. This links the form to the official recruitment and approval process.
✔ Auto-Generated Serial Number
Every form is issued with a unique system-generated ID. This helps in real-time verification and prevents duplicate or fake documents.
These features provide a reliable foundation for uniform checking at immigration desks and speed up airport clearance for Indian seafarers.
Strict Directions to All Airlines and Immigration Authorities
To avoid any future harassment or confusion, DG Shipping has issued strict instructions to:
- Airlines
- Immigration officers
- Ground handling teams
- Airport security staff
- Seaport immigration checkpoints
They have been told to immediately start accepting the updated Form-1, Form-1A, and Form-1B as official documents. Airlines cannot hold back any Indian seafarers due to documentation doubts as long as the new forms and standard travel papers are carried.
Capt. Meena has clearly stated that no seafarer should be delayed or stopped merely because an officer is unfamiliar with the new format. All relevant agencies must update their internal procedures to align with the new standard.
Indian Seafarers Recognised as Key Workers
Under the Merchant Shipping Act 2025, Indian seafarers have been officially recognised as Key Workers. This recognition ensures smooth movement at all times and protects their rights during:
- Joining a vessel
- Signing off from ships
- Emergency travel
- Medical evacuation
- Shore leave
The key-worker status reinforces the responsibility of airlines and immigration authorities to support hassle-free movement.
Responsibilities of RPSL and Non-RPSL Companies
All companies involved in the recruitment and placement of seafarers must:
- Issue the correct type of form
- Generate documents only from the DG Shipping online portal
- Ensure all security features are present
- Provide full travel documentation including ticket, visa, CDC, OKTB, and e-Migrate system records
This ensures the seafarer faces no hurdles at airports.
Also read: Cochin Port to Lease 140 Acres and Tamil Nadu Plans ₹1.2 Lakh Crore Port Expansion
24×7 Helpline for Immediate Support
If any seafarer faces an issue despite holding the new secure forms, they may contact DG Shipping directly:
📧 support.dgs@gov.in
📧 crews-dgs@gov.in
📞 9004048406
📞 8657549760
The helpline is available 24×7 for urgent assistance.
Effective Date of the New Circular
The new secure Form-1 system becomes effective from 1 December 2025.
From this date onwards, only the new forms will be accepted during airport clearance at all immigration points.
