Requirements

ETCAea – Cruise Ship Employment Requirements

1. Age & Eligibility

• Minimum age: 21 years (some roles accept 18+ for entry-level hospitality jobs).

• Must hold a valid passport (minimum 2 years before expiration). • Able to travel internationally and pass visa screening.

• Must have no criminal record and be of good conduct.

2. Education & Experience

• Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent.

• Vocational training certificate or relevant diploma preferred for skilled roles. • Prior experience in hospitality, hotel, restaurant, or maritime industry is a plus.

• Fluent in English (spoken and written); additional languages are an advantage.

3. Medical Fitness

• Must pass an IMO-approved seafarer medical exam by an authorized doctor.

• Obtain a Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1 or equivalent).

• Must be free from communicable diseases and physically fit for ship duties.

4. Mandatory Maritime Certifications (STCW)

• Personal Survival Techniques (PST) • Fire Prevention and Firefighting (FPFF)

• Elementary First Aid (EFA) • Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)

5. Required Documents

• Valid Passport

• Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1 or equivalent)

• STCW Training Certificates

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Education / Training Certificates

• Police Clearance Certificate • Reference Letter s (if any)

• Passport-size Photo (white background)

6. Visa & Immigration

• C1/D Seafarer Visa (for U.S.-based ships – Royal Caribbean, Carnival, etc.)

• Schengen Visa (for European-based ships – MSC, Costa, etc.)

• Transit or Joining Visa for embarkation ports.

• ETCA will guide candidates through visa processing and sponsor documentation.

7. Professional Conduct

• Must follow company grooming and uniform standards.

• Demonstrate teamwork, punctuality, and discipline.

• Maintain a positive service attitude and represent Ethiopia with pride.

8. Commitment

• Contract durations are typically 6–8 months at sea, followed by a break.

• Must be willing to work long hours, share cabins, and adapt to multinational environments