C2.1.j. Does the MLC, 2006 set a maximum limit on the length of an employment agreement? Can I have a SEA for a period longer than 12 months?

The MLC, 2006 does not set a maximum period for a contract of employment. In fact Standard A2.1 envisages SEAs of an indefinite period. However, the duration of a SEA and the maximum period of continuous service on board are two different concepts. The interaction between the right of a seafarer to be repatriated after a maximum period of service on board (a period less than 12 months) under Standard A2.5.1 [see C2.5.1.a.] and the obligation of the flag State under Regulation 2.4 and the Code to require that seafarers be given the minimum paid annual leave [see C2.4.a.] establishes limitations on the period of continuous service on board a ship or ships, which should be, in principle, of 11 months. The specific limits will include questions such as whether the competent authority has decided in some specific cases to permit seafarers to forgo their minimum paid annual leave [see C2.4.b.].

Seafarers’ employment agreements