What medical certificate and vaccinations do I need to work at sea?
You need a valid medical fitness certificate from a pre-employment medical exam (PEME) done by a DOH / MARINA-accredited clinic, and — when your ship or route requires it — vaccinations such as yellow fever or polio with an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) issued by the Bureau of Quarantine.
STCW and MLC 2006 require seafarers to hold a valid medical fitness certificate. This comes from a pre-employment medical exam (PEME) carried out by a clinic accredited for seafarers — using an accredited clinic matters, because a certificate from a non-accredited provider may not be accepted.
Depending on the flag state, vessel, and trading route, you may also need specific vaccinations. Yellow fever and polio vaccination, and the corresponding International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis (ICV / 'yellow card'), are issued by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) under the Department of Health.
BOQ vaccination and ICV issuance is appointment-based with a published fee. Confirm exactly what your principal or vessel requires, and book through the official Bureau of Quarantine system rather than paying a fixer.
Official link
Official Philippine government portal. Eagle Intelligence is independent and not affiliated with this agency.
Frequently asked questions
Who can do my seafarer medical (PEME)?
A clinic accredited for seafarer medical examinations (DOH / MARINA-recognised). A certificate from a non-accredited clinic may be rejected.
Is yellow fever vaccination always required?
No — it depends on your vessel and trading route. It is required when travelling to or through countries with yellow-fever risk, or when your company requires it. Confirm with your principal.
Where do I get the yellow-fever / polio ICV ('yellow card')?
From the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) under the Department of Health. Appointments and fees are handled through the official BOQ system at quarantine.doh.gov.ph.
How long is my medical certificate valid?
Medical fitness certificates have a limited validity (commonly up to two years under STCW, or less if a condition requires it). Always check the expiry against your contract dates.
Key references: Bureau of Quarantine (DOH) · STCW Convention · MLC 2006. This is general guidance, not legal advice — verify current rules with the issuing authority or a qualified professional. Last reviewed 2026-06-28 by the EAGLE Intelligence Unit.