On 10 August 2026, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) of India issued Circular 48, which formalizes the discontinuation of immigration procedures for crews of Indian Flag Coastal Run Vessels. This decision follows an Office Memorandum from the Ministry of Home Affairs dated 6 August 2026, aiming to simplify and expedite the movement of seafarers.
Changes to Immigration Procedures
The new regulations specifically affect crew members and supernumeraries on Indian Flag Coastal Run Vessels, which encompass research vessels, dredgers, and barges. Under the updated policy, immigration procedures related to sign-on and sign-off have been eliminated, along with the requirement for a Shore Leave Pass (SLP).
The DGMA emphasizes that while formal immigration requirements have ceased, Port Authorities remain responsible for keeping accurate records of crew and supernumeraries aboard these vessels. This continued oversight serves as a compliance mechanism within the newly established framework.
Regulatory Oversight and Compliance
Despite the discontinuation of specific immigration protocols, the policy allows immigration authorities to conduct surprise inspections. These inspections can include the request for crew lists from relevant vessels, ensuring that compliance can still be effectively monitored.
Shore access for Indian national crews will now be regulated by the respective Port Authority, marking a shift in how seafarers interact with land-based processes. It is essential for all shipping stakeholders, including RPSL holders, shipping companies, and vessel operators, to remain up to date with these changes to ensure full compliance.
Implications for the Industry
This regulatory change is poised to enhance operational efficiency for Indian Flag Coastal Run Vessels. By eliminating redundant immigration procedures, the Ministry of Home Affairs is facilitating a more streamlined process for crew transfers and improving overall logistics in coastal shipping. This effort can significantly reduce laytime and improve vessel turnaround times in Indian ports, crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the maritime sector. Shipowners and operators should remain vigilant in adapting to these modifications and ensuring that their operations align with the updated regulatory framework.
Why It Matters
The discontinuation of immigration procedures for coastal vessel crews represents a significant simplification in operational protocols, addressing long-standing bureaucratic hurdles that can impede maritime efficiency. With the focus on uniform implementation, it is crucial for operators to integrate compliance measures into their operational frameworks. This change is expected to foster a more agile maritime environment, allowing operators to respond faster to market demands. Attention will be needed on enforcement mechanisms, especially during surprise inspections, to ensure adherence to the new landscape of regulations shaping coastal shipping operations in India.
