Navigating seafarers health: ENG1 and other certificates

Medical certificates such as ENG1 or those deemed equivalent are mandatory for individuals seeking employment on commercial vessels regulated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Some exceptions apply for smaller and private vessels, but it is a valuable certificate to have if you hope to be employed on any yacht. Many vessels that are regulated by flag registries other than the MCA still request this highly regarded health certification.  Additionally, MCA-recognized medical certificates are prerequisites for many yachting licenses and for endorsing MCA Certificates of Competency.

The MCA regularly issues updates to its amendments concerning the acceptability of seafarer certificates from other countries as ENG1 equivalents, understanding that an ENG1 certificate cannot be obtained in many ports outside the UK.

There are recent listings regarding ENG1 that you can check online.

Visit the official website of the UK government for more information regarding countries that can issue ENG 1 equivalents or to find countries whose certificates are accepted on UK flag vessels.

Given the limited availability of ENG1 doctors outside the UK, finding an alternative seafarer medical certificate is often more feasible.

While ENG1 medical certificates have a validity period of two years, equivalent certificates may not share the same duration. It is crucial to verify the validity period with the issuing authority, as the MCA does not recognize any period exceeding two years.

If you do require an ENG1 or equivalent, when securing an appointment for your medical certificate do check that the doctor issuing the national seafarer certificate is approved by the Maritime Authority of that country, not all doctors are.

Finally, if the vessel employing you is not a British registry vessel it is always worth checking in advance if certificates other than MCA approved certificates are valid, this may open up more options for you. 

Here in, Spain, Evolution works with medical centres that can issue both ENG1 certificates and valid equivalents. Ask us about our packs to organize your hotel, travel, and medical appointments for a smooth and stress-free way to obtain the certificate you need.

We also offer full medical concierge services, from general health checks to nutritional, hormone, cardio, or other specialist consultations, for further information get in touch at hola@evolutionagents.com.