(www.MaritimeCyprus.com)Â The Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry (Cyprus Flag Administration) has released an updated official list of approved medical practitioners authorized to conduct seafarer medical examinations and issue medical fitness certificates.
This update falls under Circular 12/2026 — The Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination of Seafarers and Issue of Certificates) (List of Approved Doctors) Notification of 2026 (P.I. 153/2026), issued in March 2026.
Who Can Perform Seafarers’ Medical Examinations in Cyprus?
Seafarers requiring a Cyprus medical certificate (in compliance with the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination of Seafarers and Issue of Certificates) Laws 2000 and 2014, as well as STCW and MLC 2006 requirements) must undergo their examination at one of the following:
- A Government General Hospital in Cyprus (Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta/Ammochostos, or Paphos), OR
- A private sector doctor whose name appears on the official List of Approved Doctors published by the Cyprus Flag Administration.
Only examinations carried out by these authorized practitioners are accepted for the issuance of valid seafarer medical fitness certificates for Cyprus-flagged vessels.
Why This Update Matters
- Ensures compliance with international standards (STCW Convention Regulation I/9 and MLC, 2006).
- Helps shipowners, manning agents, and seafarers avoid invalid certificates that could lead to port state control detentions or crew changes issues.
- Provides clarity on authorized medical practitioners for both Cypriot and foreign seafarers serving on Cyprus ships.
How to Access the Latest List
Download the official Circular 12/2026 and the complete updated list of approved doctors here below.
Ship managers and seafarers are strongly advised to:
- Always verify the doctor’s name against the most recent approved list before booking an appointment.
- Use only government hospitals or listed private practitioners to ensure the medical certificate is fully recognized.
Important Note: The list is periodically updated. Always refer to the latest circular issued by the Shipping Deputy Ministry for the current version.
Stay compliant with Cyprus flag requirements — a valid seafarer medical certificate is mandatory for all crew members serving on board Cyprus-registered vessels.
For the official circular and downloadable list of approved doctors, visit the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry website or refer to Circular 12/2026 (March 2026).
This updated information is essential for shipowners, operators, crewing agencies, and seafarers planning medical examinations for Cyprus flag ships. Keep your documentation up to date to maintain full regulatory compliance.
Click on the below image to download the relevant Cyprus circular.
