{"id":4520,"date":"2021-11-23T12:05:24","date_gmt":"2021-11-23T12:05:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/handleiding-vaarbevoegdheden\/"},"modified":"2025-11-27T08:12:57","modified_gmt":"2025-11-27T08:12:57","slug":"guidance-on-applications-for-certificates-of-competency","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/guidance-on-applications-for-certificates-of-competency\/","title":{"rendered":"GUIDANCE ON APPLICATIONS FOR CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row bg_type=&#8221;image&#8221; parallax_style=&#8221;vcpb-vz-jquery&#8221; bg_image_new=&#8221;id^622|url^https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/2000px_361428671-2.jpg|caption^null|alt^null|title^2000px_361428671-2|description^null&#8221; bg_image_repeat=&#8221;no-repeat&#8221; parallax_sense=&#8221;50&#8243; bg_override=&#8221;full&#8221; disable_on_mobile_img_parallax=&#8221;disable_on_mobile_img_parallax_value&#8221; parallax_content=&#8221;parallax_content_value&#8221; parallax_content_sense=&#8221;50&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591348794444{margin-top: -100px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;150px&#8221;][vc_row_inner css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591349349768{background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9) !important;*background-color: rgb(255,255,255) !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2>GUIDANCE ON APPLICATIONS<br \/>\nFOR CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY<\/h2>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;100px&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591695541854{margin-top: 50px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;1 Applying for a certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.1 Where to apply for a certificate of competency?&#8221; el_id=&#8221;test&#8221;][vc_column_text el_id=&#8221;kiwa&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Recognition of a certificate of competency refers to a certificate that allows you to serve on seagoing vessels. The authority that issues recognitions of certificates of competency in the Netherlands is the Kiwa Register. On their site <a href=\"http:\/\/www.kiwaregister.nl\"><span class=\"s1\">www.kiwaregister.nl<\/span><\/a>, you can submit an online application. In addition to recognitions of certificates of competency, the Kiwa Register also issues Seaman&#8217;s books.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Sailing licenses for the Dutch inland waterways &#8211; such as &#8216; het groot-vaarbewijs&#8217; or &#8216;het zeilbewijs&#8217; &#8211; are not issued by the Kiwa Register, but by the Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbr.nl\/nl.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.cbr.nl<\/a>)).<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.2 Types of certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">There are two types of certificate of competencies: certificate of competency as a <strong>rating<\/strong> and certificate of competency as an <strong>officer<\/strong>.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">It is theoretically possible to train to become a rating, but you can also become a rating by accumulating sufficient sailing time as an upcoming rating (apprentice). This is the usual route that is followed. From\u00a0rating you can progress to become an able seafarer (AB).<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">As a rating or able seafarer, you always work under the responsibility of an officer. An officer is a seafarer who is allowed to be in charge of a watch. To become an officer, maritime education is always required. Officers are educated to work on the bridge (chief officer or master), in the engine room (engineer), or both (&#8216;maritime officer&#8217;).<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/confusion-about-the-term-rating\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Confusion about the term &#8216;rating&#8217;<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\">Validity<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">An officer&#8217;s certificate of competency expires after 5 years. You must then apply for a renewal. A certificate of competency for rating does not have an expiry date.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">However, for both types of CoC&#8217;s, even if they have not (yet) expired, they may still be invalid. <em><span class=\"s1\">A recognised certificate of competency is only valid when you also have a valid maritime medical examination and valid training certificates.<\/span><\/em> If your maritime medical examination or training certificates are expired, you are not authorised to sail at that time.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.3 What do I need to apply for a certificate of competency?&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">To apply for a certificate of competency the following documents are <span class=\"s1\">mandatory<\/span>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">A valid maritime medical examination;<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">A valid STCW training certificate in Basic Safety Training<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\">A seafarer\u2019s medical examination is an examination that is carried out by a doctor who is recognised for this purpose. The list of recognised doctors in the Netherlands can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Aangewezen-keuringsartsen-voor-zee-en-binnenvaart-in-Nederland-v-07-2022.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Depending on the position you wish to sail in, you must also have:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">A <span class=\"s1\">certificate of knowledge<\/span> (i.e. An education certificate from a maritime higher education institution)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Sailing time<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">STCW training certificates (e.g. for fire-fighting or medical assistance)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">A radio operating certificate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\">Flowcharts explanation<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">Rood Boven Groen has detailed the requirements for sailing in a certain position in a series of flow charts. With the help of these charts, you can find the certificates of competency that you are eligible for and what you have to do to progress to a higher position.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The flow chart should be read from top to bottom and always starts from the certificate of knowledge (if required). You can see which certificates and\/or sailing time you have to obtain to qualify for a particular certificate of competency. The different certificates of competency are indicated in the dark blue boxes. The higher education qualifications are shown in green and the training\/courses\/sailing time is in light blue.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/vaarbevoegdheden\/\">flowcharts<\/a> can be found on our website and are divided into:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\">Flowchart Rating forming part of a navigational watch &amp; Able seafarer;<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Flowchart sailing sailing ships<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Flowchart merchant ships &lt; 3000 GT<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Flowchart merchant navy all vessels<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Flowchart officer-engineer limited working area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.4 Applying for a seaman\u2019s book&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">To apply for a Dutch Seaman\u2019s Book, you must be able to provide one of the following written statements or declarations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">a statement indicating that you are enrolled at a nautical training institute (nautical college)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">a statement indicating that you are employed by a Dutch shipping company<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\">The statement must be drawn up and signed by the training institute or by the employer. In addition to the contents of the statement, it must state:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\">date of issue<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">the company\u2019s name, address, Chamber of Commerce registration number and institution code<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">(highly desirable) a company logo or stamp<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">signature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.5 The first application for a certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you are applying for a certificate of competency for the first time, it is important to know the requirements. You can use our flowcharts to find out what qualifications (college exam certificates) and training certificates are required for each certificate of competency. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/vaarbevoegdheden\/\">flowcharts<\/a> are available to view and free to download on the website under the heading &#8216;Help yourself&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>Certificates of knowledge from a training institute or college:<\/strong> If you wish to apply for a certificate of competency for the first time based on an exam certificate, <span class=\"s1\">it must not be older than four years at the time of application.<\/span><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.6 Renewal of your certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>Sailing time:<\/strong> To renew a CoC, it must be demonstrated that sufficient competent sailing time has taken place in a relevant position within the last five years.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><em>Sufficient<\/em> means:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">at least 360 days in the 5 years preceding the application, OR<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">at least 90 days in the 6 months preceding the application.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\n<\/strong>A <em>relevant function<\/em> means:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">The function you wish to renew or a lower relevant function.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><em>Competent<\/em> means:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">That you sailed in that function while holding a valid certificate of competency for it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\nException:<\/strong> On <em>sailing<\/em> vessels below 500GT, only 180 days in the last 5 years need to be demonstrated instead of 360 days.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">For more information on permitted sailing time, see the section on &#8216;Sailing time&#8217; later in this manual.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\nTraining certificates:<\/strong> When renewing, only training certificates with an expiry date need to be included as they must be refreshed to remain valid.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><br \/>\nRadio Operator Certificate:<\/strong> Nautical officers need to send their radio operating certificate with each renewal application. Although the Dutch certificate does not have an expiry date, foreign certificates that do are also required to be sent.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.7 Upgrade your certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Often, you can upgrade your certificate of competency as you gain more experience. and sailing time. For example, you could be promoted from an officer to master. To upgrade your certificate of competency, sailing time is always required. You may also need to follow additional training courses.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">It is recommended to be fully aware of the requirements of upgrading your CoC so as not to miss any opportunity.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Qualifications\/certificates of knowledge:<\/b> The maximum certificate of competency you can obtain is determined by the qualification or certificate of knowledge you have attained.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Sailing time:<\/b> The sailing time that counts for upgrading your certificate of competency is the sailing time that has been noted in the seaman&#8217;s book since you obtained your initial certificate of competency. For example, if three years sailing time as officer is required for an upgrade to the function of master, then all the days you have sailed as an officer since you obtained your first officer certificate of competency will count.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you have already sailed in a higher position, it may be possible to upgrade your CoC with less sailing time. For example, as an alternative to 3 years sailing time as officer, 2 years of experience may be sufficient, providing 1 of those years was sailed as chief mate (certified!). Use our flow charts or the Kiwa Register assessment matrix to see what applies.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.8 Dutch endorsement of a foreign CoC&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you have a foreign CoC as an officer, you will need a Dutch endorsement of your CoC to sail on a ship under the Dutch flag. The Netherlands only recognises CoC&#8217;s from <a title=\"Acceptance of STCW certificates issued by the Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate\" href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/acceptance-stcw-certificates-issued-netherlands-shipping-inspectorate\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">countries<\/a> with which an agreement has been made.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Validity<\/b>: An endorsement is not a stand-alone document and is only valid as long as the underlying CoC is valid. The CoC must be kept on board with the endorsement. When the CoC is renewed, a new endorsement must also be applied for.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Radio operating certificate<\/b>: In the case of nautical officers such as officer in charge of a navigational watch, chief-mates and masters, the expiry dates of the GMDSS certificate and the CoC may not be the same. In this case, the expiry date is the same as the earliest expiry date of the two.<\/p>\n<p class=\"null\"><strong>GMDSS certificate issued in a country other than the national CoC: <\/strong>It is becoming increasingly common for foreign seafarers to have a GMDSS certificate issued by a different country than where their national CoC has been issued. If this applies to you, you will need to request recognition for both documents. This also applies to seafarers with a Dutch diploma and a GMDSS issued by a country other than the Netherlands. In this case, separate recognition must be requested for the GMDSS certificate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Certificate of Legislation and Public Authority<\/b>: This is issued after completion of a &#8216;Dutch law assessment&#8217;. Masters who wish to apply for Dutch endorsement must have this certificate. Two training institutes offer this law test: STC in Rotterdam and DRTC in Groningen and Vlissingen. It is now possible to take the examination online.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\">As a rating<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p2\">Seafarers with a foreign rating certificate of competency are allowed to sail on Dutch ships with their foreign CoC, assuming that the STCW standards are met and the issuing country has an agreement with the Netherlands or is on the IMO White List. They, therefore, do not need to apply for an endorsement.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.9 My certificate of competency has expired. What now?&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">As long as you have sufficient sailing time in the last 5 years (or 6 months) you can renew your certificate of competency, even if it has expired.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If this is not the case, there are the options below:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>To renew a certificate of competency that expired <em>less <\/em>than 5 years ago:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"p1\">Collect 3 months in a relevant position but not in function on the crew list (but as trainee), in the 6 months prior to the date of the renewal application.<\/li>\n<li>If at least 6 months of sailing days have been gained in the 30 months (2.5 years) immediately prior to the expiry of the CoC, an ex officio CoC can be requested at Kiwa and is valid for 1 year. This allows collecting 3 months of sailing time in a relevant lower function within the main manning, in the 6 months prior to the date of the application for renewal. This option is not available to everyone, as there is not a \u2018relevant lower function\u2019 for every function.<\/li>\n<li>Obtain a new certificate of knowledge. Depending on the training institute and situation, this can be done using a previously acquired competency (PAC\/EVC) procedure.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>When a certificate has been<\/strong><strong>\u00a0expired <em>more<\/em> than 5 years:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ol class=\"ol1\">\n<li>Obtain a new certificate of knowledge. Depending on the training institute and situation, this can be done using a previously acquired competency (PAC\/EVC) procedure.<\/li>\n<li>Approved test: At the moment, the maritime training institutes are working on the content of this test. This offers an alternative that is more in line with practice, whereby one does not have to go through a full maritime education or EVC procedure. This variant is also available if a previously issued certificate of proficiency no longer entitles one to apply for a CoC.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"p1\">Of course, all these options require that you present a valid seafarer medical examination and valid training certificates when applying.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.0 Recognized medical certificate&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Sometimes there is uncertainty about which medical certificate issued by a foreign doctor is recognized by the Dutch flag state.<\/p>\n<p>Flag states typically have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilent.nl\/onderwerpen\/scheepvaart-algemeen\/medische-keuring-scheepvaart\/keuringsartsen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">two lists<\/a> of doctors that are appointed to carry out seafarer medical examinations for the flag state:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A list of national doctors.<\/li>\n<li>A list of doctors in other countries. These are foreign doctors that have been appointed to carry out medical examinations in the name of the flag state.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If a doctor \u2013 either national or foreign &#8211; is appointed by a flag state, they are allowed to use the format of that flag state\u2019s medical certificate.<\/p>\n<p>Next to this, flag states may recognize each others\u2019 medical certificates just as they may recognize each others\u2019 training certificates or CoCs.<\/p>\n<p>So medical certificates that have been issued by foreign doctors will be recognized by your flag state:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>If the foreign doctor is appointed by your flag state. The list of foreign doctors recognized by the Dutch flag can be downloaded <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilent.nl\/onderwerpen\/scheepvaart-algemeen\/medische-keuring-scheepvaart\/keuringsartsen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>If the foreign doctor is appointed by another flag state, whose medical certificates are recognized by your flag state. The Dutch flag state recognizes medical certificates from these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kiwaregister.com\/nl\/nieuws\/archief-2019\/buitenlandse-geneeskundige-verklaringen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">countries<\/a>. Please note that this list is not the same and much smaller than the list of countries whose training certificates and CoCs are recognized by The Netherlands.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Moral of the story: In finding out whether a medical certificate will be recognized by your flag state, <u>not the nationality of the doctor but the template of the certificate<\/u> is leading![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;50px&#8221;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;2 Points to consider for a specific CoC&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.1 Certificates of knowledge&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">The following applies to all certificates of competency: Your attained certificate of knowledge determines your maximum obtainable rating.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p2\">You can apply for an initial certificate of competency up to 4 years after the issue of your certificate of knowledge. Once you have been granted your initial certificate, you do not have to present your certificate of knowledge every time you renew or upgrade your rating. It is assumed that your knowledge is kept up to date by performing sufficient sailing time and refresher training.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.2 Sailing time for maritime officers (\u2018marofs\u2019)&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you sail in the position of maritime officer, half of your sailing days are considered to be nautical officer days and the other half engineer&#8217;s days. If you have one or more positions as officer of a navigational watch \/ chief mate <strong><em>or<\/em><\/strong> engineer on your certificate in addition to maritime officer, you will have to sail twice as many days as a maritime officer to meet the sailing requirement for the other positions.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">For example, your certificate shows both the maritime officer and chief mate position. To renew the chief mate position, you will need to demonstrate that you have completed 360 days as a chief mate over the past 5 years. If in this period you have only sailed as a maritime officer, you must have sailed as a maritime officer for 2&#215;360 = 720 days in the same period.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Conversely, to renew your maritime officer qualification, you may have sailed half of the required days as a chief mate and the other half as an engineer.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Combinations are also allowed: for example, 200 days as a maritime officer, 80 days as a chief mate and 80 days as an engineer add up to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">200+80+80 = 360 days as a maritime officer.<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">200\/2+80 = 180 days as nautical officer<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">200\/2+80 = 180 days as engineer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.3 Certificates of proficiency for sailing ships (instead of certificates of knowledge)&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Unlike other maritime training programmes, when finishing the Enkhuizer Maritime School (EZS) you will not receive a certificate of knowledge. Instead, after completing the theoretical part, you will receive a diploma. This diploma, in combination with a completed taskbook, entitles you to a certificate of proficiency as officer in charge of navigational watch (grote of kleine zeilvaart). The certificate of proficiency is proof of completion of both the theoretical and the practical parts of the education. Both the taskbook and the certificate of proficiency are issued by the EZS: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ezs.nl\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.ezs.nl<\/a>.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The same applies to the certificates of proficiency as to the certificates of knowledge from other education courses &#8211;<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>you can apply for a certificate of competency up to 4 years after they have been issued.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.4 Rating deck on sailing ships based on sailing time on inland waterways&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">To apply for rating forming part of navigational watch on sailing vessels, it is possible to demonstrate sailing time spent on inland sailing vessels, the so-called &#8216;bruine vloot&#8217;. The following documents are requested to prove this sailing time:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">A copy of the vessel&#8217;s &#8216;certificaat van onderzoek&#8217; (CVO);<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Days stamped by the SAB in the &#8216;dienstboekje OR a sailing time declaration from the captain with signature and company details (see chapter Sailing time).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p3\">Our experience shows that based on this sailing time it is also possible to apply for a Coco for rating forming part of a navigational watch <em>for all ships<\/em>, even if this is not explicitly mentioned. We recommend ticking both positions in the application.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">This option is not available for applications for officer competencies.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;2.5 Certificate of competency for sailing ships &lt; 500 GT&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The rules concerning the certificates of competency for sailing ships under 500 GT are detailed in a separate regulation: Regeling Bemanning Zeegaande Zeilschepen (RBZZ) (the Regulation Crew of seagoing vessels). The most important differences compared to other certificates of competency:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Sailing time:<\/b> The RBZZ does not calculate in years, but in seasons, whereby a season counts as 180 days. The sailing time required to upgrade your certificate of competency is expressed in seasons. To renew a certificate of competency you must demonstrate <span class=\"s1\">1 season of sailing time in the last 5 years<\/span>, which is 180 days instead of 360. The possibility to renew based on 90 days of sailing time in the last 6 months remains the same for these CoC&#8217;s.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>First mate sailing on ships &lt; 500 GT<\/b>: This certificate does not exist. Instead, it is permitted to sail as chief mate on sailing ships &lt; 500 GT with the qualification &#8216;officer in charge of a navigational watch&#8217;\u00a0 for sailing vessels under 500 GT. The Dutch flag has issued a statement to this effect, which can be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/ILenT-verklaring-wachtstuurman-zeilvaart-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">downloaded<\/a> here.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;3 Sailing time&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;3.1 Requirements for sailing time&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">To avoid disappointment, it is important to know what requirements your sailing time must meet when applying for\/renewing\/upgrading your certificate of competency.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p2\">Submission using a seaman\u2019s book or sailing time declaration<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">Sailing time can be submitted in two ways: via the seaman\u2019s book (with the master\u2019s signature) or using a sailing time declaration. A sailing time declaration can be drawn up by your shipping company. A recognition must be present from the relevant country when sea time is gained on a foreign-flagged vessel.<\/p>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Sailing time requirement for &#8216;CoC&#8217;s <em>no limitations&#8217;<\/em> as of 25th July 2025<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>For nautical officers, renewal of a CoC for\u00a0<em>all ships\u00a0<\/em>will require experience on\u00a0<strong>ships &gt;100 GT<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>For engineering officers, renewal of a CoC for\u00a0<em>all ships<\/em>\u00a0will require experience on\u00a0<strong>ships with engine power &gt;750 kW<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When experience on ships &lt;100 GT or &lt;750 kW is provided at the application, the renewed CoC will be limited to 3000 GT or 3000 kW (whichever applicable).<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively, experience gained on board of vessels\u00a0 &lt;100 GT or &lt;750kW <em>WILL<\/em> be taken into account in renewal applications, when no upgrade of the CoC is requested and at least 24 months of experience in the last 5 years can be demonstrated.<br \/>\nAlso, it is still possible to\u00a0keep the CoC for\u00a0<em>all vessels<\/em>\u00a0when a minimum of 90 days on vessels\u00a0<ins datetime=\"2025-05-20T18:00\">&gt;<\/ins>100 GT or\u00a0<ins datetime=\"2025-05-20T18:00\">&gt;<\/ins>750 kW has been made in the 6 months prior to the application.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"null\">Sailing time statement for renewal of captain\u2019s CoC<\/h3>\n<p>Until now captains only needed to sign their own sailing time in the Dutch Seaman\u2019s book. Since Kiwa discovered that this is not always done right, an additional check has been added. Kiwa now requests extra confirmation of the stated sailing time by the shipowner the captain has been sailing for or by the captain\u2019s accountant. We have made an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/041223-EXAMPLE-SAILING-TIME-DECLARATION-CAPTAIN.docx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">example statement<\/a> to use.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p2\">On commercial vessels<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">Sailing time must be acquired on professionally operated ships. If the ship on which you sail has an IMO number, then stating this IMO number is sufficient.<\/p>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Sailing time on commercial yachts<\/h3>\n<p>Sailing time on commercial yachts can (usually) be taken into account. It is important that the vessel is commercially registered. If the vessel is not commercially registered but has an LY2 or LY3 code certificate, then this certificate must be provided with the application. Additionally, the Minimum Safe Manning certificate of the ship must state that STCW certificates are required.<\/p>\n<p>To clarify, when using sailing time on a yacht, at least the following certificates must be provided for a thorough evaluation to be made.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Proof that the ship is commercially registered;<\/li>\n<li>LY2 code or LY3 code certificate (if the ship is not commercially registered);<\/li>\n<li>Minimum Safe Manning document of the ship.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\">KIWA assesses whether the evidence submitted is convincing.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\">Correct function<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p2\">We often experience that sailing time is rejected because the position in the seaman\u2019s book does not correspond with the position on the CoC. For example, the position in the seaman\u2019s book is higher than the position on the CoC, &#8216;chief mate&#8217; is listed while at that time the person was only rated as &#8216;officer of navigational watch&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\">Another common error is two positions being listed for the same period, for example, &#8216;chief-mate\/engineer&#8217;. Because Kiwa is unable to determine in which position the applicant sailed, the sailing time is rejected in its entirety.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">When sailing time that has not been noted correctly is rejected, it is still possible to demonstrate sailing time in a specified position using a sailing time declaration signed by your shipping company for the same period.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p4\">At the back of the seaman\u2019s book, there is a list of abbreviations for all sailing positions known in the Netherlands. To unambiguously demonstrate the position in which you sail, it is advisable to use these abbreviations.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;3.2 Sailing time in different industries&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Certificates of competency are issued by branch or industry: merchant navy, fishery, sailing or navy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Transferring from one industry to another is only possible by obtaining a certificate of knowledge for the new industry.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you have 3 months of sailing time in the new industry, you may use the sailing time you had already accumulated in your old industry to upgrade your competence in the new industry. For example, you have been a master on sailing ships for years and you have just attained a certificate of knowledge in merchant shipping. Based on that certificate of knowledge, you will receive your first CoC for merchant navy officer in charge of a navigational watch \/ chief officer. After you have accumulated 3 months of experience in this rating, you may add your previous sailing time to your merchant navy sailing time and apply for an upgrade in your merchant navy rating.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Once you have certificates of competency in different industries, the sailing time you accumulate in one industry can also be used to renew the certificate of competency in the other industry. This sailing time cannot be used to upgrade the rating in the other branch.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;3.3 Alternative experience&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">It is possible to renew a CoC based on experience other than sea time. The positions that qualify are listed in <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0051068&amp;hoofdstuk=3&amp;paragraaf=3.1&amp;artikel=3.1.6&amp;z=2025-07-01&amp;g=2025-07-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">3.1.6 Regeling bemanning zeeschepen<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0032140\/2019-11-15#Paragraaf10_Artikel10.7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">.<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">NOTE: Instead of 12 months (360 days), <em>24 months<\/em> (720 days) experience in the last 5 years is required to renew for these positions. A combination can also be made of sailing days + alternative experience.\u00a0Upgrading your CoC is not possible based on alternative experience.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Good to know about alternative sailing time<\/h3>\n<p>Alternative sea time will only be accepted with a strong motivation that you possess the STCW competencies as described in the STCW code. Our experience shows that nowadays, merely having a sea time statement from the shipowner\/employer is no longer sufficient if the tasks do not fully correspond to the functions mentioned in <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0051068&amp;hoofdstuk=3&amp;paragraaf=3.1&amp;artikel=3.1.6&amp;z=2025-07-01&amp;g=2025-07-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">3.1.6 Regeling bemanning zeeschepen<\/a>. It is possible that not every function eligible for this option is listed. If you want to know if you qualify, we recommend sending an employer\u2019s statement in which the functions are extensively described. This statement can be emailed to\u00a0<a title=\"mailto:NL.Scheepvaart@kiwa.nl\" href=\"mailto:NL.Scheepvaart@kiwa.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-outlook-id=\"d099ecab-9d83-4fc1-af8e-adce9c8fa7ae\">NL.Scheepvaart@kiwa.nl<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It is good to occasionally document some tasks in a portfolio to be able to demonstrate the STCW competencies. If this is too brief, IL&amp;T may request clarification through an interview with an inspector.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;50px&#8221;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;4 STCW training&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.1 STCW trainingcertificates&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Depending on the position in which you sail, you will be required to produce several STCW training certificates when applying for a certificate of competency. These are training courses that meet the standard set out in the STCW Convention, an international treaty defining training requirements for seafarers.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"null\">Is the Basic Safety certificate mandatory for every seafarer?<\/h3>\n<p>The Seafarers Act specifies who must have a basic safety training certificate:<\/p>\n<p>\u2018Captains, officers, engineers, maritime officers, electrical engineering officers and other seafarers who have been assigned a task on the muster list or seafarers who have a task regarding prevention of pollution of the sea, must be in possession of the basic safety certificate.\u2019<\/p>\n<p>In practice, this means that every seafarer who fulfills a position for which a certificate of competency is required, must have a valid basic safety certificate.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Confusion about the term \u2018rating\u2019\" href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/confusion-about-the-term-rating\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ratings<\/a>, or apprentices or trainees, do not (yet) have a certificate of competency. Legally, they do not need to be trained in basic safety to board a ship. After all, they are not yet allowed to perform independent tasks, and therefore cannot be assigned a position on the muster list.<\/p>\n<p>However, this group is often also required to have a basic safety certificate. Such a requirement does not arise from the law, but from agreements made between educational authorities and training companies (ship managers).[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.2 Refresher courses&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Several of the STCW courses have an expiry date of 5 years. Depending on your CoC, when you apply for a renewal, you must show valid certificates for one or more of these refresher courses, which concern safety and medical training.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">In the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/certificate-of-competence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">flowcharts<\/a>, you can see which refresher courses apply for each CoC.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p2\">Refresher STCW safety training<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">This may be one or more of the following training courses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p3\">Basic safety training (STCW section A-VI\/1-1 to 1-4)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p3\">Advanced fire fighting (STCW section A-VI\/3)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p3\">Proficiency in survival craft (other than fast rescue boats) (STCW section A-VI\/2-1)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p3\">Proficiency in fast rescue boats (STCW section A-VI\/2-2)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\">For these courses, you must ALWAYS follow a refresher course to maintain valid certification.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p2\">Refresher medical training<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">These are the training courses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Medical first aid (STCW section A-VI\/4-1)<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Medical care (STCW section A-VI\/4-2)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\">When applying for an officer&#8217;s CoC for the first time, a valid medical training certificate is always necessary.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The <strong>refresher requirement<\/strong> for this training applies ONLY to<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"p1\">Masters; and<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Crew members responsible for medical tasks on board.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"p1\">Therefore, masters are required to produce valid certificates of their medical training(s) even when renewing their certificates of competency.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If you are not a master, you can renew your certificate of competency without having to provide a valid medical training certificate. However, you may still have to repeat your medical training as you are responsible for managing the medical equipment on board. Whether there is a crew member in addition to the master who has this responsibility on board, and who that is, is agreed by the master with the shipowner &#8211; so your employer will be able to inform you.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p2\">Validity of a Medical Care certificate<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">A Dutch Medical Care certificate is not valid if you do not also have a valid Medical First Aid certificate. Some other countries issue one certificate for both training courses under the name Medical Care. The certificate must then refer to the STCW sections for both training courses.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>My STCW certificate has expired, what to do?<\/h3>\n<p>When your STCW certificate has expired, you may be eligible to follow a <em>refresher<\/em> training. When you have a valid certificate of competency, you can often participate with a refresher. If you don&#8217;t have this then you will have to follow the basic training. Please contact the training institute where you want to follow the refresher training.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Stroomschema-download.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flowchart ILT for STCW refresher training<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilent.nl\/documenten\/publicaties\/2020\/01\/17\/notitie-toegang-tot-stcw-herhalingstrainingen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Note ILT to participate STCW refresher trainings<\/a><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.3 Validity of Dutch training courses&#8221;][vc_column_text]To provide STCW-training, a training institute must be recognised by its flag state. You can find a list of recognised Dutch training institutes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilent.nl\/documenten\/publicaties\/2022\/03\/11\/overzicht-erkende-trainingen-scheepvaart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"s1\">here<\/span><\/a> on the Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate (NSI) website.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.4 Validity of foreign training courses&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Training courses provided by a foreign training institute will be recognised by the Netherlands if:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li class=\"p1\">the institute is recognised by the maritime authorities of the country concerned; AND<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">the country in question has an STCW-agreement with the Netherlands.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"p1\">Click <a href=\"https:\/\/puc.overheid.nl\/nsi\/doc\/PUC_86961_14\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"s1\">here<\/span><\/a> for an overview of countries with which the Netherlands has such an agreement.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Additional information:<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"German proof of training certificate MC &amp; MFA accepted by Dutch flag\" href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/german-certificate-mc-mfa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">STCW training news update article about German STCW-certificates<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.5 May a STCW-training certificate or medical certificate expire during the voyage?&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Dutch legislation does not specifically state anything about an expired STCW-training certificate. The Dutch flag state therefore assumes that crew members\u2019 training certificates are valid throughout the entire voyage.<\/p>\n<p>In cases of force majeure,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.kiwaregister.com\/nl\/water\/visserij\/persoonsdispensatie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">personal dispensation<\/a>\u00a0can be requested at Kiwa. This is recommended if:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The relevant crew member is part of the Minimum Safe Manning, OR<\/li>\n<li>the crew member has a role in the muster list that cannot be carried out by others.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, the following can in any case be undertaken to show that you will deal with the situation consciously (for example in case of an inspection):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The captain draws up a \u2018letter of authority\u2019 in which he or she briefly explains why this crew member must remain on board despite the fact that the training certificate has expired.<\/li>\n<li>A refresher course is already booked and proof of this is ensured on board.<\/li>\n<li>To prevent this, we recommend the policy that the training certificates of crew members are always valid for at least six months longer than the term of the contract.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Regarding an\u00a0<u>expired medical certificate<\/u>\u00a0during the voyage the STCW-code states the following. The certificate shall remain in force until the next port of call where a recognized medical practitioner is available, provided that the period shall not exceed three months (STCW code Regulation I\/9).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;4.6 How to make sure that you are correctly STCW trained?&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Rules and regulations, trials and tribulations&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>People usually do not go to sea because they like paperwork so much. But even if they don\u2019t want to, seafarers sometimes have to engage in bureaucracy to secure that one piece of paper that they do want. Rood Boven Groen regularly picks up seafarers who are at the point of drowning in that sea of papers that is called STCW. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/stcw-news-update-nr-5\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">This article<\/a> aims to be a navigation aid.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;50px&#8221;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;5 General information&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;5.1 Working in a lower rank on board (NSI statement)&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Problems are regularly encountered with the interpretation of the coverage of a Certificate of Competency. Are you allowed to sail in a position lower than your rank, when this position is not mentioned on your Certificate of Competency?<\/p>\n<p>It sometimes happens that a seafarer has to take over a function for another crew member, sometimes in a lower rank. It could be, for example, that a Captain or Chief Officer has to take over a third officer or rating. According to strict interpretation of the STCW regulations, mentioned, the substitute will not be allowed to sail in this function when it is not mentioned on their CoC. RBG consulted NSI about this, after which NSI issued a \u2018declaration about working in a lower rank\u2019. You can read the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/V2-Statement-regarding-lower-function-.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NSI declaration here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>In essence, NSI has no objection to a seafarer who is in possession of a CoC Officer in charge of a navigational watch (II\/1), Chief Mate (II\/2) or Master (II\/2) to also sail as Rating Deck (II\/4) or Rating. A seafarer may also sail with a CoC Chief Engineer (III\/3\/III\/2), Second Engineer or Officer in charge of an Engineering watch (III\/1) in the function of Rating Engine Room (III\/4).<\/p>\n<p>NSI does emphasize that persons who serve as a Rating or Rating Engine Room must be listed on the crew list as a Rating or Rating Engine Room and in practice also perform the work associated with this position. It should be noted that seagoing service as a rating deck or rating engine room cannot be used to extend or upgrade an officer\u2019s CoC.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><i>\u00a9Rood Boven Groen 2025. All rights reserved. Rood Boven Groen is not responsible for misinterpretations or errors in this publication. Source reference: Wet Zeevarenden.<\/i><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row bg_type=&#8221;image&#8221; parallax_style=&#8221;vcpb-vz-jquery&#8221; bg_image_new=&#8221;id^622|url^https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/2000px_361428671-2.jpg|caption^null|alt^null|title^2000px_361428671-2|description^null&#8221; bg_image_repeat=&#8221;no-repeat&#8221; parallax_sense=&#8221;50&#8243; bg_override=&#8221;full&#8221; disable_on_mobile_img_parallax=&#8221;disable_on_mobile_img_parallax_value&#8221; parallax_content=&#8221;parallax_content_value&#8221; parallax_content_sense=&#8221;50&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591348794444{margin-top: -100px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;150px&#8221;][vc_row_inner css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591349349768{background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0.9) !important;*background-color: rgb(255,255,255) !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text] GUIDANCE ON APPLICATIONS FOR CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;100px&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1591695541854{margin-top: 50px !important;margin-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_accordion active_tab=&#8221;false&#8221; collapsible=&#8221;yes&#8221; style=&#8221;2&#8243; title=&#8221;1 Applying for a certificate of competency&#8221;][vc_accordion_tab title=&#8221;1.1 Where to apply for a certificate of competency?&#8221; el_id=&#8221;test&#8221;][vc_column_text el_id=&#8221;kiwa&#8221;]&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4520","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","description-off"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4520","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4520"}],"version-history":[{"count":115,"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4520\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8624,"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4520\/revisions\/8624"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.roodbovengroen.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4520"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}