Beginning September 14, mariners will submit applications electronically through Navita, which will provide guided workflows intended to simplify the application process and help mariners submit complete applications. To prepare for the launch, the National Maritime Center (NMC) is taking several steps to facilitate applications processing.
Key Information:
* Navita User Guide: A system user guide will be available on the NMC website homepage to aid in the use of Navita.
* Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP): The Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) will be discontinued and will no longer be available.
* [email protected] email: The IASKNMC e-mail address will be discontinued for submitting inquiries to the NMC. Mariners and other stakeholders will submit inquiries to the NMC directly through Navita using the Case function. This transition will provide a centralized method for submitting and managing inquiries and will ensure correspondence is associated with the appropriate applicant or application.
* Paper Application Submission: Although paper applications will still be accepted, the Coast Guard intends to phase out this submission method within the next 12 months. Mariners are strongly encouraged to submit credential applications via Navita to ensure they receive timely, first-in, first-out processing and status of their application. Paper applications, whether submitted by mail or in-person, will take significantly longer to process.
* REC assistance with applications for submission. REC personnel will continue to review application documents presented during an appointment for completeness; however, applicants are encouraged to submit through Navita after the review. REC personnel may assist with questions pertaining to the use of Navita and submissions, but computers or internet access at the RECs for mariner use will not be provided.
While Navita will improve the application and credentialing process, its launch will not immediately reduce current processing timelines. Applications received prior to 14 September, as well as applications submitted through Navita, will continue to be processed on a first-in, first-out basis. Applications should not be submitted through Navita if previously submitted to the NMC. Duplicate submissions will delay application processing times. Requests for expedited processing will be considered only for applications demonstrating a clear and documented nexus to national defense.
Mariners should continue to apply early using Navita. Renewal applications may be submitted up to 8 months before expiration and may be postdated up to 8 months, allowing mariners to apply early without losing validity on their existing credential.
Mariners and maritime employers should continue to plan accordingly and submit applications early to avoid potential disruptions to employment or vessel operations.
For ongoing updates, sign up for the NMC list server by scanning the QR code below. For questions, contact our Customer Service Center via the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662).
Sincerely,
James B. Suffern
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspections