The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is a statutory certificate issued under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, made mandatory by SOLAS Chapter XI-2. It proves that a ship is compliant with international security requirements and has effective measures in place to prevent unlawful acts such as terrorism, piracy, and smuggling.
What is the ISSC?
The ISSC certifies that a ship:
Has an approved Ship Security Plan (SSP).
Operates in accordance with the ISPS Code.
Has undergone a successful security audit by the Flag State or its Recognized Security Organization (RSO).
It assures port states, flag states, and charterers that the ship is secure and compliant with international security standards.
Applicability of the ISSC
All passenger ships, including high-speed passenger craft.
All cargo ships of 500 GT and above engaged in international voyages.
Mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs).
Ships below these limits are generally exempt unless required by their flag.
Who Issues the ISSC?
Issued by the Flag State Administration or a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) on its behalf.
Based on verification of compliance with the ISPS Code and SSP implementation.
Requirements for ISSC Issuance
To obtain an ISSC, a ship must:
- Have an approved Ship Security Plan (SSP) specific to that ship.
- Appoint a Ship Security Officer (SSO) responsible for onboard security.
- Undergo an initial verification audit to confirm compliance.
- Demonstrate crew awareness and training in security drills and response procedures.
Validity and Surveys
The ISSC is valid for 5 years.
Requires intermediate verification between the 2nd and 3rd anniversary date.
Renewal verification is required before expiry.
The certificate can be withdrawn if security deficiencies are found.
Contents of the ISSC
The ISSC includes:
Ship particulars (name, IMO number, type, flag, GT, port of registry).
Statement that the ship has a valid SSP approved by the Flag/RSO.
Confirmation that the ship operates in compliance with ISPS Code Part A and Part B.
Dates of verification audits.
Name of issuing authority and signatures.
Why the ISSC is Important
- Regulatory Compliance – Mandatory under SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and ISPS Code.
- Port State Control (PSC) – Ships without a valid ISSC may be detained, denied entry, or delayed.
- Enhanced Security – Reduces risk of piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and other unlawful activities.
- Commercial Requirement – Charterers and terminals demand ISSC compliance for vessel acceptance.
- Global Recognition – Provides assurance to foreign ports that a ship is operating securely.
Conclusion
The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is one of the most critical statutory documents carried on board, certifying that a ship is secure against threats and fully compliant with international security regulations. Together with the ISPS Code framework, it strengthens maritime safety and ensures global trade continues without disruption from unlawful acts.
