New hire applicants or rehires with a break in service of 6 months or more are classified as a new hire/rehire applicant, and are required to get new medical/s done. The medical we required are thorough and can be quite an expense. This is a financial commitment on your* part so you need to be absolutely sure you will pass.
Any pre-existent medical condition/s you have may affect you successfully passing the medical. We strongly recommend that you discuss any concerns you have in this regard with the recruiter at your interview.
In the event you are offered employment with GCO, the position is contingent upon passing this medical. Failing the medical will result in an offer of employment being withdrawn.
1. How long is the medical process?
Usually 1 to 2 months, depending on how quickly you complete your full medical including vaccinations.
2. How long are my medicals valid for?
Two years. This translates in most cases to 2 contracts depending on the length of your contract. Medicals should be valid throughout the course of your contract, and it will be your responsibility to renew your medicals while on vacation.
If on your return your medicals are not valid for the whole contract or have expired, you will not be allowed to board the vessel. In the case you are allowed to board you would be signed off at the next available port to renew your medical. All flight and hotel costs will be your own expense.
3. After I complete my medical is the job offer guaranteed?
On the proviso that you can pass the medical, GCO will send you the Letter of Employment to assist you in obtaining a valid C1/D visa. You must have this visa to work onboard.
4. Should I give my employer notice in my current job as soon as I am medically cleared?
No, you should wait until we have informed you of your ship assignment and you have been granted a US visa (C1-D).
5. After I am medically cleared what is the next step?
6. How long is the waiting period to get a ship assignment?
Usually a few days to a few weeks, refer to question 5.
7. What does it mean if I am medically denied?
You have not passed the medical examination and unfortunately this results in us having to retract our offer of employment.
8. How long does the hiring process take?
Usually 2 to 3 months.
9. How long will my application be open for employment?
Six month maximum.