MCA Update – Important News for Seafarers

Following the publication of MGN 718 (M+F): 2026 IMO Amendment to PSSR. If you did your PSSR before 1 January 2026 you are required to update before 31 March 2027.

STCW Update – Basic Safety Training Course (U-BSTC)

The STCW Refresher (Update) Basic Safety Training Course (U-BSTC) must be completed by seafarers every five years and provides vital safety-at-sea refresher training. For any seafarers revalidating their UK Certificate of Competency after January 1, 2017, documentary evidence of completing a U-BSTC within the last five years must be provided.

Please note: First Aid is not included in the compulsory Refresher (Update) training. However, the STCW Elementary First Aid certificate remains the basic qualification required for all seafarers. It is strongly recommended to renew this certification every five years, as it may be required by certain vessels or employers.

If you are using your STCW Elementary First Aid certificate to authorise you to skipper small vessels under an RYA Commercial Endorsement or as part of an instructor qualification, you must renew your STCW First Aid certificate every five years.