Crew change procedures for South African nationals

30 Jun 2020 / South Africa

South African nationals may join or sign-off their ships in South Africa, subject to compliance with Covid-19 regulations.

Off-signers must:

  • apply to [email protected]
  • submit health declaration, including temperature for the last 14 days, to Port Health
  • enter government quarantine facility for 14 days, at state expense
  • if tested positive, be transferred to state hospital

There are no restrictions for on-signing South African nationals.

South African seafarers flying abroad to join their ships need a visa to enter the country where they will board, which may prove problematic as local embassies/visa services are closed. The procedure is as follows:
a. Secure flight – obtain confirmation of booking (note, e-ticket is issued later)
b. Contact the embassy of the country of destination, submit application, including flight confirmation, for “Laissez Passer.”
c. Send copy of LP to DIRCO
d. Confirm flight through a travel agent or online.
e. E-ticket provided

For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in South Africa, contact GAC South Africa at [email protected]

If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.