India has recently eliminated longstanding requirements for crew members on Indian-flag vessels operating exclusively in domestic waters to obtain sign-on, sign-off, and Shore Leave Passes (SLP). This change was announced by the Union Home Ministry in an official communication directed to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The previous system mandated that seafarers physically visit immigration offices every ten days to secure and extend their SLPs—an arduous process that has been causing operational disruptions for crew members during their coastal runs.
With the revised framework, Port Authorities will now take on the responsibility of maintaining updated records of crews and supernumeraries aboard Indian-flag coastal vessels, including barges, dredgers, and research ships operating within port limits. While the Bureau of Immigration will continue to perform periodic inspections and acquire crew lists directly from the vessels, the management of shore access for crew members will now rest with the respective Port Authority.
The decision stems from reports submitted to the Home Ministry that detailed the operational challenges posed by the existing immigration protocols. Concerns were notably raised regarding the inefficiency and disruption caused by the mandatory visits to immigration offices, which were recognized as operational hurdles for personnel onboard.
Union Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressed his support for this reform, labeling it a significant advancement for India’s maritime workforce. He highlighted the government’s commitment—under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah—to modernize and streamline systems that had become outdated over decades, ultimately aimed at empowering Indian seafarers.
This reform is expected to enhance coastal operations by minimizing administrative delays and improving flexibility for crews working within port limits. The new system prioritizes simplification while ensuring oversight through regional monitoring and ongoing checks by immigration authorities.
In conclusion, the abolition of sign-on, sign-off, and SLP requirements marks a critical shift in India’s maritime operational landscape, facilitating smoother operations for seafarers and reflecting the government’s dedication to supporting its maritime workforce.
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