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Apply for a UK merchant navy medal

You can apply for a UK merchant navy medal if you were a member of the merchant navy and you:

  • served in a vessel used to support the UK armed forces
  • meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for

You can apply for someone else if either:

There’s a different process if you want to nominate someone for the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service.

Apply for someone else’s medal

Complete the Merchant Navy Medal application form on behalf of a veteran.

You must upload a copy of their death certificate or of your lasting power of attorney.

You’ll also need to upload a copy of the page in their seaman’s discharge book that shows they were on the ship at the time.

If you do not have their seaman’s discharge book, you could upload a copy of either of the following:

  • any record of the ship’s movements  
  • any national archive documents

If the veteran has died, you must be the official next of kin. The general rules for the official next of kin are: 

  • the person’s spouse or civil partner has the first claim to the medal, and then the eldest child 
  • if there’s no spouse or child, the parent is entitled to apply 
  • if there’s no spouse, child or parent, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

Apply for your own medal

Complete the Merchant Navy Medal application form.

You’ll also need to upload a copy of the page in your seaman’s discharge book that shows you were on the ship at the time.

After you’ve applied

How long it takes to process your application depends on: 

  • the supporting documents you provide 
  • other evidence the team may need to process your application

Get help

Email the Registry of Shipping and Seamen if you need help with your application.

You can also ask for a paper form to apply by post. 

Registry of Shipping and Seamen 
seafarers.registry@mcga.gov.uk

Replace a lost or stolen medal

Contact the Registry of Shipping and Seamen if your medal is lost or has been stolen.

seafarers.registry@mcga.gov.uk  
Telephone: 0333 399 0039
Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 5.30pm
Closed on bank holidays
Find out about call charges

View a printable version of the whole guide

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