This is a common question that I get asked, and the opinion about it is actually quite confusing in various online forums. Here is what I have found, and what I advise
The latest vision standards are as per DG Shipping MS Notice 1 of 2015.
The actual notice can be found here, and you would need to scroll down to page 16 & 17 for details of vision testing.
The important thing to understand is that there are different vision requirements for joining the Merchant Navy, which are quite strict, and for continuing as a sea farer, which are a bit more relaxed.
Also, the requirements are much more strict for joining a Nautical Engineering course (for Deck duty), versus joining for Marine Engineering or Engine side courses.
Of course, you need to have a normal color vision. Also, the requirements are stricter for Deck hands/ dual career, while for Engineering / Radio the norms are more relaxed.
If you decide to get a LASIK surgery done, you are generally good to go after 6 months or so, assuming there are no complications.
DG Shipping Notice MS Notice 1 of 2015
TravelSafe Clinics provides a proper eye examination and DG Shipping certification for both Pre sea examination and for Merchant Navy Seamen, and is approved by DG Shipping at its locations in Chandigarh (Mohali), and Mumbai (Chembur).
drgaurav says
December 6, 2017 at 10:29 AMThese guidelines are very helpful for candidates joining Merchant Navy/ Commercial shipping/ from DG shipping approved institutes in India.
It is important that they know this before joining, otherwise their career may get spoiled, if they are rejected later.
Areeb says
June 25, 2018 at 12:27 AMSir i have an eyesight of -3.0 in my left eye and -2.5 in my right eye can i be able to apply for marine engineer
drgaurav says
June 25, 2018 at 1:17 PMIt depends on your vision in terms 6/6 pr 6/9 etc.
This needs to be checked by your Ophthalmologist, or you can come over to us,
Regards
drgaurav says
June 25, 2018 at 1:23 PMIt depends on your vision in terms 6/6 pr 6/9 etc.
This needs to be checked by your Ophthalmologist, or you can come over to us,
Regards
Mansi Gupta says
March 21, 2018 at 2:22 PMI have 2.5 far vision defect should I join merchant Navy is it good for my career this year I’m gonna appear 12th exam last year I skipped my 12th board exams due to financial crisis that’s why I will not try for an eye operation what should I do please tell me !
drgaurav says
March 21, 2018 at 6:01 PMHi,
As you can see in the above Blog, you can get a LASIK done and if the number becomes 6/6 after surgery, you should be fine.
The other thing I would recommend is that you consider Engineering / Radio where the vision norms are much more lax,
Regards