Starting today, electronic certificates for seafarers are fully available online, with the same legal effect as paper certificates.

According to the Maritime Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Transport, starting from August 1st, China will fully implement the use of electronic crew certificates, which have the same legal effect as paper certificates. Crew members can apply for relevant certificates online, without the need for on-site application or waiting for certificates to be mailed. Shipping companies can query and download electronic certificates in real time through the Maritime Affairs App or the Maritime Affairs "One-Stop" platform, thus avoiding the risks associated with certificate forgery.