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Requirements

Filling Out Tax Form

ETCAEA – Cruise Ship Employment Requirements. A,B,C,D,E

A. Age & Eligibility

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

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

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

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B. Education & Experience

  1. • Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent.

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

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

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C. Medical Fitness

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

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

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

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D. Mandatory Maritime Certifications (STCW)

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

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

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E. Required Documents

  1. • Valid Passport

  2. • Seafarer Medical Certificate (ENG1 or equivalent)

  3. • STCW Training Certificates

  4. • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  5. • Education / Training Certificates

  6. • Police Clearance Certificate • Reference Letters (if any)

  7. • Passport-size Photo (white background)

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F. Visa & Immigration

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

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

  3. • Transit or Joining Visa for embarkation ports.

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

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G. Professional Conduct

  1. • Must follow company grooming and uniform standards.

  2. • Demonstrate teamwork, punctuality, and discipline.

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

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E. Commitment

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

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

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