P&I Club comments on effect of Trump travel ban on crew

JANUARY 30, 2017 — President Trump’s Executive Order of January 27, 2017 on immigration means, among other things, that for the next 90 days crewmembers from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Iran and Libya, whether or not they hold visas, will be denied entry to the U.S.

The U.K. P&I Club says that “at present, the implementation of the Executive Order is not entirely clear” and that should members be affected by the order they should contact the Club.

The Club makes these recommendations:

• For the next 90 days, crewmembers from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Iran and Libya will be denied entry into the US. Whether or not they hold U.S. visas;
• Nationals from the seven named countries with permanent resident (green card) status will be permitted entry, “….absent the receipt of significant derogatory information indicating a serious threat to public safety and welfare…”
• Do not arrange crew changes in the United States for those citizens of the identified countries including flights with transit through the U.S.
• The Departments of State and Homeland Security (CBP) may determine on a case by case basis and when in the national interest, to issue visas or other immigration benefits to nationals of countries for which visas and benefits are otherwise blocked. We anticipate that in the event of a true medical emergency the CBP may permit the injured or ill crewmember entry to the U.S. under section 1(g) of the Executive Order.
• For those nationals affected by the Visa Interview Waiver Program, we recommend contacting the local U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance as an interview now appears to be required.
• The Club will continue to monitor the situation and will update Members as the situation becomes clearer.