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Dependent visa & shore-side family rights

Most flag states do not extend onboard visit rights to seafarers' dependents by default; access is governed by the port state, the operator, and the SEA. Where it is permitted, the operator must approve in advance, the port state must issue any required visa, and the seafarer normally bears costs. This topic covers the practical steps to get a partner or child onboard for a port-leg or coast-hopping passage, and the residency / income-tax implications back home.

Step-by-step

  1. Read the SEA: most SEAs are silent or restrictive on dependent visits. Some IBF CBAs (notably Maersk Officers' and several European national CBAs) allow officer-rank short visits at the shipowner's discretion.
  2. Apply to the operator in writing at least 60 days ahead. Provide: passport copies, vaccinations, P&I-insurance liability waiver from the dependent, and a planned itinerary.
  3. Confirm port-state visa requirements for the dependent (this is a normal tourist visa for the port country, not a seafarer visa). FAL Convention status does not extend to dependents.
  4. Onboard insurance: P&I cover does NOT extend to non-crew family members. The shipowner will normally require an indemnity from the seafarer or proof of independent travel medical insurance.
  5. Tax residency: in jurisdictions with a Seafarers' Earnings Deduction (UK SED, India 182-day rule), days spent visiting a vessel as a passenger may count against the qualifying day rule. Verify with a maritime-tax specialist.
  6. Children below national legal-travel age require parental consent letters from the non-travelling parent under Hague Convention rules — most operators require notarised consent before boarding.

Evidence to save

What NOT to sign

Legal basis

FAL Convention (visa-light treatment applies to seafarers, NOT dependents). Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption + bilateral child-travel protocols. National tax rules (UK SED, ITTAct India § 6, Norway sjømannsfradraget). P&I Club rules typically exclude non-crew unless an indemnity is in place.

Primary sources

Related terms

Organisations that can help

Disclaimer. General information only — not legal advice. Rules vary by flag state, port state, vessel type, applicable CBA, and contract. For specific cases, contact ITF, ISWAN, your union, or a maritime lawyer.