The Malta Ship Registry has introduced a digital Seaman’s Record Book, replacing the physical document with a digital credential that seafarers can access through a personal mobile wallet.
The service is now live following the introduction of Merchant Shipping Notice 118 Rev.2, issued on 23 September 2026. Malta, which operates the largest ship register in the European Union and the sixth largest globally, will issue the record book exclusively in digital format.
Developed by Danish digital identity company IDsure.io in collaboration with Malta-based Galaxy Ltd, the system allows seafarers to apply through the Merchant Shipping Directorate’s Seafarer Portal before verifying their identity and receiving the credential through the IDsure app.
Seafarers can record their sea service digitally and submit entries for authentication by the Master or other authorised officials. Employers, Port State Control officers and authorities can verify the authenticity of records using a QR code, while the digital book remains accessible offline at sea.
Each credential is cryptographically signed by the issuing authority and anchored on the Concordium blockchain, allowing records to be independently verified and helping reduce the risk of document fraud. Seafarers retain control over how their personal data is shared, with the service designed to comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation.
“A seafarer should not have to depend on the physical delivery of an important professional document while moving between vessels, ports and countries,” said Ivan Tabone, Registrar General of Shipping and Seamen at Transport Malta.
