Legal frame
Governing: π.δ. 119/2014 art. 7α, added by π.δ. 49/2021 (ΦΕΚ Α' 125, 19 July 2021). Builds on: L2.1.
Why this matters
On a Greek-flag professional yacht with a manning scale, officers must hold a certificate that gives them the right to serve in that post (L3.3). If yours is from another EU or EEA state, Greece does not make you sit Greek exams. It recognises your certificate by endorsement (θεώρηση).
What art. 7α says
| Paragraph | Rule |
|---|---|
| 7α(1) | ΔΕΚΝ accepts other member states' certificates of proficiency and documentary evidence, on paper or electronic, for service on Greek-flag ships |
| 7α(2) | ΔΕΚΝ recognises CoCs (and certificates of proficiency under V/1-1 and V/1-2) issued by another member state by endorsing them. The endorsement is limited to the capacities, functions and levels on the certificate and uses the STCW A-I/2 para. 3 format |
| 7α(3) | Medical certificates issued under another member state's authority are accepted |
| 7α(4) | Decisions within a reasonable time; right of appeal against refusal, silence or undue delay |
| 7α(5) | Extra limitations for coastal voyages may be imposed |
| 7α(6) | Service of up to three months while an EU CoC, valid and endorsed by its issuing state, awaits Greek recognition |
| 7α(7) | Officers seeking recognition for management functions receive from the master a handbook of basic Greek maritime legislation issued by ΔΕΚΝ |
WARNING — The three months are not automatic Art. 7α(6) says the authorities "may, if necessary" allow it. File the endorsement application before joining and keep proof on board.
No Greek-law exam
The management-level safeguard is the handbook, not an oral exam. No Greek maritime-law exam for EU masters was found in the texts read. Compare Malta or Italy, where the practice differs — see Working on Yachts in Italy and the Malta courses.
Where recognition is not needed
- On a foreign-flag yacht the flag state's rules apply to certification. A Maltese-flag yacht chartering in Greece carries its Maltese-endorsed crew.
- Below the manning thresholds (24 m and 14 passengers) Greek- and EU-flag yachts have no manning scale; the person in command needs a Υ.Α. 3342/02/2004 qualification (L1.2).
Practical sequence
- Check whether the yacht is Greek-flag and inside a manning band (L3.3).
- Collect your CoC, flag-state endorsements, certificates of proficiency and medical.
- Apply to ΔΕΚΝ for the recognition endorsement before joining.
- If joining before it issues, ask for the 3-month interim permission in writing.
- For management posts, collect and read the Greek-law handbook.
TIP — Get the EU CoC first For a UK or other non-EU crew member aiming at Greek-flag work, an EU CoC or EU recognition endorsement is the cleaner route. See Red Ensign Flag Endorsements and the Malta courses.