Calls on Governments to Facilitate Shore Leave for Seafarers

The International Shipping Federation (ISF), and ICSW member, which represents maritime employers globally, is calling on port states to facilitate the right of seafarers to shore leave, in line with governments' international treaty obligations, by proposing a new pragmatic approach to visa requirements.

ISF has made this proposal in a submission to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Facilitation Committee, which next meets in April to consider its current review of the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL). The FAL Convention includes a blanket prohibition on port states requiring seafarers to obtain visas in order to enjoy shore leave.

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