USA

U.S. - Crew List Visas To Be Eliminated

With effect from 16 June 2004 foreign crewmen on board vessels calling at U.S. ports will no longer be able to enter the U.S. without an individual visa. Entry will no longer be allowed by virtue of a crew list visa as these will cease to exist.

This measure is one of many introduced as part of an overall approach to improve security in the U.S. since the attacks of 11 September 2001.

There has already been consultation in respect of the rulemaking. With effect from 16 June 2004 the rule will be finalised on an interim basis. There is, however, a further consultation period on the interim rule. Comments must be received by 17 May 2004. After reviewing comments the State Department may determine that a 90 extension to the implementation date may be necessary to "ameliorate effects on the shipping industry".

Comments may be sent by regular mail to CA/VO/L/R, L-603, SA-1, 2401 E Street, NW., U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-0106; or by e-mail to ackerrl@state.gov.

For further information contact: Ron Acker, Legislation and Regulations Division, Visa Services, Department of State, Washington, DC 20520- 0106, (202) 663-1205 or e-mail ackerrl@state.gov. 

Details of the interim final rule were published in the Federal Register of 18 March 2004.