The government has scrapped the requirement for immigration procedures for sign-on, sign-off and shore leave involving Indian national crew and supernumeraries serving on Indian-flag vessels engaged in coastal trade.
According to an office memorandum issued by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, shore access for Indian national crew and supernumeraries on Indian-flag coastal vessels will henceforth be regulated by the respective port authorities.
The ministry has directed port authorities to maintain records and data of Indian national crew and supernumeraries serving on coastal-run vessels.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration will conduct periodic surprise inspections and may seek crew lists from Indian-flag coastal vessels, dredgers, barges, research vessels and other similar categories of vessels.
The move is expected to simplify operational procedures for Indian seafarers working on coastal vessels while ensuring that appropriate records and monitoring mechanisms remain in place.
Sign-on refers to the commencement of a seafarer’s service agreement onboard a vessel, while sign-off marks the completion of the contract. Shore leave allows seafarers to go ashore during a vessel’s port stay, providing an important break from their duties and supporting their health and well-being.