The Manila Amendments continue to evolve. From January 2025 and throughout 2026 a new set of requirements enters into force worldwide. Many seafarers panic when they hear “new STCW rules,” but in reality only a few things will affect most certificates. Here is exactly what you need to know to stay legal.

1. Electronic Certificates Are Now Mandatory After 1 January 2026

From 1 January 2026 all new and revalidated certificates of competency and proficiency must be issued in electronic format by flag states that have completed the IMO whitelist process (most major flags already have).

Paper certificates issued before that date remain valid until their expiry, but once you go for renewal or revalidation you will receive only an e-certificate.

What you must do: make sure your personal email and phone number are updated in the administration system. You will receive a secure link and QR code instead of a paper booklet.

2. Security Training: New Code 2024 Requirements Fully Enforced

The 2024 updates to Section A-VI/6 (Security) are now compulsory.

Every seafarer needs either:

- Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) or

- Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) + new 2024 online refresher every 5 years.

If your current security endorsement was issued before 2024 and has no expiry date, you must complete the short online 2024 refresher before 1 July 2026 or it becomes invalid.

3. High-Voltage Systems Above 1000 V: New Mandatory Training

From 1 January 2025 every engineer officer on ships with HV systems (most new container ships, LNG carriers, cruise ships) must hold the approved High-Voltage (HV) training at operational or management level.

Old “HV familiarization” given onboard is no longer accepted for new contracts.

4. ECDIS Generic Training: One-Time Rule Ends

After 31 December 2025 you must refresh ECDIS generic training every 5 years if you serve on ECDIS-fitted ships. A short 8-hour online update course is enough. Many flags already demand it during CoC revalidation.

5. GMDSS GOC/ROC Revalidation Simplified

From 2026 you can revalidate GMDSS certificates by:

- 1 year sea service in the last 5 years OR

- 2-month refresher course (classroom or online with practical assessment).

The old requirement of 12 months sea service using GMDSS equipment is reduced.

6. Mental Health and Leadership Modules Added to All Refresher Courses

Basic Training (PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR) and Proficiency in Survival Craft refreshers now include a mandatory 2-hour module on mental health and non-technical skills. You cannot get the sticker without it.

Quick Checklist to Stay Legal in 2026

- Update your contact details with your flag administration for e-certificate delivery

- Complete 2024 Security refresher before July 2026 if you have an old endorsement

- Take approved High-Voltage course if you sail on ships >1000 V

- Plan ECDIS 5-year refresher before end of 2025

- Do the new mental health module during your next BT or PSCR refresh

Nothing dramatic happened, but ignoring these small changes can block your next sign-on. Book the required courses early because training centers are already full for the first half of 2026.