Nepal Issues First-Ever Seaman’s Record Book

Kathmandu: Nepal has officially issued its first Seaman’s Record Book (also known as the Seaman’s Service Book) on July 9 through the Department of Passports (DoP), marking a significant step in facilitating overseas employment for Nepali seafarers.

The first recipient of the document is Amit Kumar Sinha, a Nepali citizen employed by Delta Corp Ship Management DMCCO. With this new record book, Nepali citizens working in the maritime sector can now have official documentation recognized internationally, easing their movement and employment aboard ships.

This initiative follows the Government of Nepal’s decision in fiscal year 2022/23 to begin issuing the Seaman’s Record Book through the DoP. The system was launched after completing necessary technical and administrative preparations.

The introduction of Nepal’s own Seaman’s Record Book eliminates the need for Nepali workers to rely on foreign-issued documents, which were often difficult to obtain and not always recognized. The new record book is expected to simplify verification procedures and reduce travel and employment-related barriers for Nepali seafarers.

Tirtha Raj Aryal, Director General of the DoP, congratulated Amit Sinha as the first Nepali citizen to receive the Seaman’s Record Book and expressed confidence that the initiative will support many more in the future.

The Department expressed hope that the issuance of the Seaman’s Record Book will further empower Nepali citizens seeking maritime employment globally.