Latest COVID-19 status regarding restrictions in Ports/Countries where Waypoint Port Services provide services.

– Latest Update: January 27th 09:00 am (UTC +01:00)

ARGENTINA

General National regulation in force (DECNU-2020-274-APN-PTE) issued by the Argentine President:

• Starting March 16^th and for a period 15 days, Argentine borders are closed. Only nationals or residents can enter the country. This period can be modified at any time.
  • Individuals performing tasks involving foreign trade, transportation and aviation are excepted so long as they don’t present symptoms. That includes crew members of planes, ships, trains and/or trucks performing transportation of goods.
• Airport with restrictions.
• Spare Parts, Technical Repairs are still allowed.

National regulation in force specific to shipping (NO2020-17205422-APN-ESCO#PNA) issued by the Argentine Coast Guard following the President’s order above:

• Sanitary Authorities will have the prerogative to administer the implementation of the exceptions to the general regulation.
• Categories of vessels:
  • HIGH RISK: If proceeding from a Risk Area (listed below) or if crew temperature log is found abnormal, Sanitary Authorities will take all necessary precautions which could include quarantine of all crew and passengers.
  • LOW RISK: If vessel has over 14 days of navigation from last port or is proceeding from an area not listed as high risk and crew temperature log is normal, then operations will evolve NORMALLY AND WITHOUT RESTRICTIONS.
• In effect, Authorization to take pilots is only given with Free Pratique, and Free Pratique is only granted once vessel is considered LOW RISK by Sanitary Authorities.

Additional information:

• Sanitary Authorities upriver are trying to ensure operations run as smooth as possible for which they are showing a higher flexibility for vessels coming from Chile and Brazil. In Bahia Blanca and Necochea the regulation is being implemented in full force and the 14-day quarantine for ships proceeding from infested areas (including Brazil and Chile). A comment of ours, we have been told unofficially that Necochea and Bahia Blanca Sanitary Authorities will be instructed to follow the same rules as Upriver, therefore not imposing the 14-day time gap to ships proceeding from Brazil and Chile as longest their crew members are in good health.

Countries classified as risk areas: China, South Korea, Singapore, Iran, United States, Europe, Brazil and Chile.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

BANGLADESH

ON SIGNER need to bring COVID-19 free antibody certificate, on arrival at the airport within 72 hours after issuing from the home country’s authority.

OFF SIGNER must need COVID-19 free antibody certificate before leaving the airport. Once the report is negative, he could fly to his home town. Also, body temperature needs to be below 98 degree Fahrenheit.

For more information contact: India@waypointports.com / +91 7304407453

BRAZIL

MANAUS & ITACOATIARA

• Crew have to be transferred straight to destination (ex: Airport x Vessel or Vessel x Airport – no hotel accommodation).
• Crew must carry valid VISA or SB.
• SB should be signatary of ILO 185.
• Crew change should be informed at ANVISA.
• For Off signers, COVID quickly test is compulsory. If negative result crew can follow trip and if positive crew will have to pass by quarantine of 14 days at hotel (for asymptomatic cases).
• Crew have to be transferred straight to destination, ex: Airport x vessel or Vessel x Airport. (no hotel accommodation).
• Crew must carry valid VISA or SB.
• SB should be signatory of ILO 185.

BELÉM (VILA DO CONDE / BELÉM / MIRAMAR / BARCARENA):

• On Singers must follow procedures in EMBARK / DISEMBARK PROTOCOL FOR CREW in Anvisa Website.
• Off signers:
  • Crew medical report with quickly COVID test
  • Send Crew medical report to ANVISA (local)
  • Send Medical Log book to ANVISA (if available)
  • Term of responsibility from agency/master.
  • If all in order, ANVISA Will issue TCSV (Term of Sanitary control for traveler).
  • The TCSV Will be sent to Federal police in order to crew get permission to disembark (disembark Letter)

SANTARÉM: Not allowed disembark unless some illness approved by Anvisa and no embark allowed yet.

MACAPÁ/ FAZENDINHA:

As per local immigration information, foreign crew change is permitted with following prerequisites; On and off signers have to do COVID quickly test.

ITAJAÍ:

• On signers: So crew can embark they must stay at the hotel during 14 days then proceed with the COVI 19 test.
• Upon negative result, Anvisa releases a term / certificate that authorizes the crew to embark.
• Off signers: Only allowed in cases of heath events or repatriation
  Crew should have confirmed flight + local COVID 19 test to present to Porth Health Autority.

SÃO FRANCISCO DO SUL

• On signers: On signers can pass by quarantine in their home country before coming to Brazil.
• Crew can do the COVID-19 test in their hometown. It’s not mandatory to do it in São Francisco do Sul or they can even bring a medical declaration from their hometown.
• Off signers: Only allowed in cases of heath events or repatriation
  Crew should have confirmed flight + local COVID 19 test to present to Porth health Autority.

RIO GRANDE

• On signers: Must arrive with the proper authorizations and the embark will be allowed (please remember, for nationalities who are at ILO).
• Off signers: We must hire a laboratory to do a COVID 19 test and take it on board.
• Upon negative result, Porth Health Autority releases a term/certificate that authorizes the crew to disembark to return to his country.

PARANAGUÁ / ANTONINA

• We need all documents (PP and SKB) from on/off signers, employment contract for on signers, and flights in advance.
• It’s necessary to send a letter from Master informing that off signers are symptoms free.
• All crew (on and off) must visit the doctor to receive a declaration informing that they’re Covid-19 free.
• They can stay at the hotel before embark / after disembarking.
• We highly recommend sending on signers at least 1 day before berthing, so we have enough time to send them to the doctor.
• It’s not compulsory to make COVID 19 test. Immigration and Health Authority requests only medical declaration issued locally.

SALVADOR

• Working basis LOI – but must be checked case by case.
• ANVISA ratifies the recommendation of the 14-days quarantine. That it is not a prohibitive in the case of immediate boarding, except for the responsibility.
• If there is any proliferation of COVID-19 inside the vessel/platform, the vessel will have to be quarantined for 14 days and the shipowner will have full responsibility in case of contagion and / or the need for hospitalization / treatment of any crew member for not having followed the recommendation, including also the delay in the operation and we (agency) will have no responsibility.
• Shipowner will have to do a liability term to the agency, stating that Shipowner will be responsible for any issues, including delays in operations.

SUAPE/ RECIFE

• On signers: must have a medical report (owners side) and a proof of 14 days of quarantine (hometown or Suape/Recife).
• Transfer must be from airport straight to terminal.
• COVID-19 test is compulsory, with negative result.
• Off signers: must have a medical report (owners side)
• Transfer must be from terminal straight to airport, Anvisa request from owners their own contingence plan for covid-19, which its planning and execution is owner’s responsability.
• If any case detected onboard, vessel will have to wait in quarantine at same berth or in other designated by terminal.
• Anvisa will allow crew change only if all regular procedures be done by immigration office including the clearence for foreign crew.
• Some charters agents charge by online procedure of crew change (input data in paperless system).

SÃO LUÍS /PONTA DA MADEIRA/ ITAQUI

• On signers: Arriving at SLZ, 07 days isolation at the hotel then must do the COVID 19 test, if negative and proven for Health Autority, they can go onboard.
• It’s possible to avoid the isolation. Crew must hold a letter from master of responsibility for boarding without local quarantine considering that the quick test was negative. Local test is mandatory.
• Off signers: After disembark they must do the COVID 19 test.
• If negative and proven to Port Health Autority, they can directly go to the airport or wait the flight at the hotel.

RIO DE JANEIRO

• Only countries signatories of ILO 108 are allowed. For disembarking ILO 105 and 185 being accepted.
• On signers: Crew member must follow a quarantine (14 days before berthing date – possible at home country) under medical examinations checking daily the temperatures prior to coming to Brazil issuing a final report with all information / confirmation that is free of COVID-19.
• Keep copy of the Seafarers Employment Contract Prior crew get the flight Covid Test to be applied with negative results.
• An embarkation shall be performed directly to the vessel.
• Off signers: Disembark subject to authorities approval and must issue tickets (directly transportation as well).
• It’s mandatory present to authorities the flight confirmation (ticket or boarding pass) up to final destination.
• Crew must follow 14 of isolation at vessel checking daily temperatures with a report issued by master.
• Documents needed: Port of Call List, Vessel’s Health.
• Declaration dated until flight’s date, New Crew List, Vessel’s Log Book confirming Free of Covid 19.
• Based on above we need follow plenty restrictions and also still subject to authorities approval (final green light).

SANTOS

• On signers: Crew member must follow a quarantine (14 days before berthing date – possible at home country) under medical examinations checking daily the temperatures prior to coming to Brazil issuing report with all information / confirmation that is free of COVID-19 by a doctor.
• Prior crew get the flight we need to get an authorization/approval with Immigration and also the Health authorities (also if directly embarkation shall be applied COVID-19 test + consultation).
• An embarkation shall be performed directly to the vessel or in case necessary, hotels shall be performed quarantine locally as well until embarkation (with daily monitoring, blood tests and medical expenses).
• Hotels are working with restrictions (availability to be checked).
• Off signers: Disembark subject to authorities’ approval and
  must issue tickets (directly transportation as well).
• 14 days of isolation (crew must follow monitoring at vessel checking daily temperatures with a report issued by master 14 days before berthing date).
• COVID-19 blood test shall be performed + consultation at
  doctor in Brazil.

VITÓRIA

• On signers: Crew must be 14 days in quarantine with temperature report twice a day.
• The Quarentine may be done in hotel at Brazil or crew’s home.
• The temperature report must be signed and stamped by a health professional.
• Do a COVID-19 test ( in a laboratory) before coming to Brazil (home country) and send us the result signed by the person in charge of laboratory.
• After crew arrival at Brazil the Health authority will ask to do a new COVID-19 test and medical report.
• Send us the flight schedule in advance.
• The crew member must travel with all documents: medical report, temperature report and COVID-19 Negative test, together with the SBook, Passport, and whenever asked, inform that they are SEA MEN. OKTB should also be taken with them.
• Try to schedule flights to be as quick as possible and direct without stoppages to stay for long time into intermediate Airports.
• Send documents 72h before for the necessary clearances.
• Formalities after crews arrival at brazil may take about 8 hours for that reason may be necessary to take on signers to hotel and embark them the next day.
• Off signers: Crew must have a Maritime health declaration and an on-board medical book – last 15 days.
• Crew had to be on board for at least 14 days, representing local quarantine.
• A Master statement, stating that the crew member (s) to disembark have no symptoms of COVID-19 14 days of monitoring and report crew’s temperature informing if period in which they are embarked presented signs or symptoms of covid-19. This report can be done by
  master.
• Theirs repatriation flight 72h before departure.

Any other additional supporting documents ,may be requested by the local authorities at their discretion and time.

For more information contact: CrewChangeBR@waypointports.com / +55 41 99604-8325

CANADA

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ON CREW MEMBERS AND OTHER WORKERS

Transport Canada has issued a new Ship Safety Bulletin attached highlighting the essential nature of marine transportation services and clarifying the documentation requirements for seafarers who are travelling to Canada to join a ship’s crew.  More specifically, there are no travel restrictions on such individuals provided they are in possession of a seafarer’s identity document supplemented by a passport; or other seafarer documentation, including proof of employment on a vessel at a Canadian port, and a visa if required.
TC has sent this guidance to airlines, with a view to alleviating further confusion at international airports due to the imposition of inappropriate travel restrictions on seafarers travelling to join crews in Canada.  For our part, we have also shared this guidance with CBSA in order to ensure their officers have a full understanding of marine mode requirements.
Additional guidance on the ability of non-crew individuals such as technicians, surveyors, etc. to travel in order to do work on board ships is expected to be issued by Transport Canada within the coming days. 

SEAFARER HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Shipping Federation of Canda have developed a communique on the heath and well-being of seafarers, which is designed to address public misperceptions about the role of seafarers as vectors of COVID-19 transmission, with a view to discouraging the imposition of measures that significantly limit the ability of healthy seafarers to access shore leave.  The communique also highlights the essential role that seafarers play in delivering indispensable goods and supplies that will be crucial in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and on the consequent need to ensure their ongoing ability to perform these key activities.  We will be distributing this message to the Association of Canadian Port Authorities and other service providers over the coming days

Marine Crew Deemed Essential

• Transport Canada has now published a ship safety bulletin confirming that there is no restriction on shore leave and crew change for healthy crew members and requesting all ports, terminals and marine facilities in Canada to continue granting shore leave to seafarers. Full documentation:
  • Canada’s Ports are Open to International Trade
  • Shore Leave Access
  • Health Reporting Ships
  • Extending Validity of Canadian Marine Personnel Certificates.
• Transport Canada has also advised that this information has now been fully communicated to CBSA – which has set up its on COVID-19 working group to support the efficient flow of information to CBSA regions.
• 14-Day Quarantine Period:  TC confirmed that at this time, the department will not be implementing a 14-day quarantine period for vessels arriving in Canada. This decision is based on Canada’s assessment of risks (as informed by the Public Health Agency) and the need to support the fluidity of maritime transportation (carriage of vital goods to and from the country).
• Reporting Requirement for Sick Crew Members: TC stressed the requirement for the vessel/master to report any sick crew member via the PAIR report AND to also report anytime a crew member’s health situation changes after submission of the PAIR report – including when the ships is at anchor and at berth. 
• Seafarer Certificates: TC has put into place measures to automatically extend the validity of Canadian seafarers’ certificates for a 6 month period.
• Cruise Vessels: TC restated that the ban on cruise vessels – which is in effect at least until July 1 – applies to vessels carrying 500 people or more.  TC continues to investigate whether additional measures are needed with respect to smaller cruise vessels (less than 500 people) calling Canada during this same period (i.e. from the beginning of the cruise season to July 1).
• Other: TC stressed that Canada is not closing its doors to international trade and that Canadian ports remain open for business. The movement of goods is considered an essential service, and as such, there are exemptions in place for workers who are involved in this activity.  TC also acknowledged the efforts of international ship owners in implementing measures to ensure the safety of ship crews and citizens.
• Spare Parts delivery are allowed.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

CHILE

There is an approval for crew changes, in order to obtain this special waiver onsigners and offsigners must comply as following:

Onsigners:
– OK to Board (Invitation Letter), as usual, to be issue by the Agent with full details of each crew member and flights too.
– Once we have all the information before mentioned  we will inform our Foreign Ministry in order for them to send a pre-notice to the local Embassy as per Country needed.
– In the case that such Country does not count with a Chilean Embassy, we shall support your team in Chile with local Authorities.
– Once we have approval, the crew member needs to approach the Embassy office in order to obtain Visa Waiver, he will also need to arrive with our OKTB, a colored photo and a fingerprint will be requested once at the local office. 

Suggestions:
– As this is just the beginning we suggest to carry out this process with a good lead time.
– Regarding Port for crew change, we highly suggest using Valparaiso Bay for crewing services, which is only 2 hours away from Santiago International Airport. Note that all domestic flights to other Ports are restricted and highly demanded. 
– Other Ports near Santiago Airport are San Antonio (Anchorage not feasible, only alongside), Quintero Bay & Ventanas Port.
– If service is approved crew members must have with them at all times personal protection such as face masks, gloves and cleaning gel.

Offsigners:
– Off-signer must comply with a 14 day quarantine on board vessel from last foreign departure port. If he does not meet this requirement, he must complete the days on board or at a local Hotel until his fixed flight.

Additional Information:

The current Covid-19 Waiver (Crew Permission) will be granted only for crew members whose nationalities do not require a tourist visa in order to enter Chile. With this stated, the most common countries affected for crewing in Chile are: Philippine / India (read note below) / China (read note below) / Sri Lanka / Myanmar.

Notes:
– India & China have an exception, if they hold a US VISA (B1/B2) for at least 6 month validity we can request a special waiver for their entry as Crew.
– The Nationalities (Crew) that are most common to obtain a prompt Visa for entry to Chile are: USA / Peru / Spain / Russia / Ukraine / Poland / Croatia / Bulgaria / Greece / Indonesia / Turkey / Slovenia / Canada / Thailand.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

CHINA

• Foreigner crew change/visit is NOT available
• P.R Chinese crew change in some port suspended , and need case by case check/approval
• CTM arrangement and spare part delivery is available

For more information contact: china@waypointports.com / +86 138 1755-9780

COLOMBIA

• Colombian Government has declared compulsory isolation in the country from next Tuesday march 24^th at 23:59 hrs, until Monday, April 13^th .
• Transport and logistics sectors, as well as, the imports of goods and all related to the production of food will remain active.
• Port operation for cargo carriers, remains in normal conditions just with some recommendations and a prohibition of crew changes and shore passes to crew until further notice.
• Harbor Master and Port Sanitary requires the following pre-arrival information/documents:
  • Maritime Health Declaration
  • Copy of Medical book register
  • Name of the crew member
  • Last city where the crew member was before embarking on the last 20 days.
  • Passport number.
• Port Sanitary requires update of the health of every crew member 96, 24, 12 and 6 hours before vessel´s arrival. In case that a crew member presents symptoms of the virus, the vessel will go to a designated anchorage area for quarantine for 14 days and a doctor will be assigned to follow up crew health and conditions.
• Crew Members are not allowed to go ashore unless they are going to check vessel drafts. If this is the case, they must wear in addition to their PPE the mask.
• Crew Changes are not allowed at any Colombian Port.
• It is also stated in the article 5 of the decree the “Suspension of domestic transportation by air”, it will only be allowed in the following cases: humanitarian emergency, transportation of cargo and merchandise, fortuitous case or force majeure. It is important to remark, that couriers are being affected by this measure, so consequently documents arrival to ports can be delayed.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

CURACAO

• The island of Curaçao intends to reopen without the need for quarantine on arrival on 1 July, , initially to visitors from the BES Islands (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba), The Netherlands and ‘some other countries from Western Europe.
• The total number of tourists on the island at any given time will be limited to 10,000.
• All visitors will be required to show proof of a coronavirus PCR test conducted at the passenger’s expense at least 2-3 days prior to travelling.
• They will also be required to complete a health and travel history declaration form.
• Facemasks and social distancing are to be required in public and mass events will not be conducted.

Additional info: Its necessary to apply for a special fly inn and fly out permit for signing on and off crew. This will take approx. 7 working days.
At the moment there is only one (1) weekly flight to and from Curacao. This is with KLM form Amsterdam. They fly every Tuesday AMS-Cur and every Wednesday CUR-AMS. There is a mandatory use of special transport regulations for incoming and outgoing crew to and from the ship/airport/ hotel/ immigration office. We need to use a mandatory hotel appointed by the government for quarantine to await the arrival of the ship or departure flight.

CYPRUS

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works announces that with effect as from 20^th June, 2020 all passenger who intent to travel to Cyprus are obliged, for disembarkation purposes, to carry the CyprusFlight Pass. For its acquisition passengers should in advance fill in electronically the documents needed which could be found in the electronic platform: https://www.cyprusflightpass.gov.cy

On-Signers:

1) Copy of passport and seaman’s book.
2) Confirmed flight details.
3) The crew members arriving from countries belonging in category B and C (attached ) must remain in self-isolation for 14 days before entering  Cyprus. Also they must carry with them a certificate from a recognized center of negative coronavirus molecular test upon their arrival at Larnaca airport. The certificate must not be more than 72 hours before their arrival at Cyprus. The crew members arriving from countries belonging in category A no self-isolation for 14 days and coronavirus molecular test are needed.
4) All arriving crew members must fill online the Cyprus flight pass before their flight to Cyprus (attached).
5) For the crew members that arriving from countries belonging in categories B and C special approval from Cyprus shipping deputy ministry is need before their arrival in Cyprus.
6) For all non EU citizens crew members, entering visa can be arranged upon their arrival at airport.

Off-Signers:

1) Copy of passport and seaman’s book.
2) Confirmed flight details.
3) The sign off crew must fill in the attached health self declaration.
4) If the vessel did not dock at any port the last 14 days or docked only at ports of countries belonging to category A (attached ) no any special approval is requested from Cyprus shipping deputy ministry ,otherwise a special approval from the ministry is required.
5) Maximum duration of transit visa for sign off crew is 5 days. 6) The authorities may request the sign off crew to proceed with COVID -19 test (depends always on their decision).

Notes: For a special approval from Cyprus shipping deputy ministry for on signers or off signers we need all above requested informations (flight details, copy of passport/seamans book, etc.) at least 72 hrs (on working days ) before crew arrival or departure.

More Important Information:

• COVID-19 Destination Protocol
• Flight Card Countries

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

• Crew Changes are allowed during the state of emergency.
• Since Tuesday July 21st local authorities implemented a curfew due to the increase of cases of Covid-19.
• Dominican immigration authorities are requiring that the crew change request need to be requested 10 days in advance to complete the entire immigration formalities (including Passport Copies & Flight Details).
• In an effort to ensure a safe and efficient arrival to the country, local authorities implemented additional protocols at the airports / ports:
  • Upon arrival, all person will have their temperature checked at their arrival to Santo Domingo or embark/disembark the vessel.
  • If a crew/personnel registers a temperature above 100.6 °F degrees (38 °C) or presents any other symptoms, port authorities will administer a rapid COVID-19 test and initiate the protocols for isolation and treatment of the case.
  • In addition, airports and port terminals have established guidelines requiring social distancing as well as the mandatory use of face masks for employees and passengers.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

EGYPT

As from 1/7 Egyptian airports are open for international flights and crew changes are allow in all ports. Procedures for embarkation and disembarkation:

DOCUMENTS
– Copies of their passports
– Copies of their seaman books
– Flights for on signers – we shall provide ok2b
– Flights for off signers and confirmed e-tickets  

also to be provided by master
– Crew list signed stamped
– Maritime declaration of health
– List of port calls
– Vaccination list

VISA
Visa will be arranged on arrival however for some nationalities visa stands only for 48 hrs.
Due to not limited availability of flights, we will request from immigration for extension of their visa

Declaration form / no corona test
Declaration Form will be handed to crew before departure from the Airport to be submitted to quarantine dept on arrival Egypt. Local authorities / quarantine dept has the right to monitor their temperature at any point of the procedure. No corona virus test is required for the on signers and off signers crew.

Guidance for flights and possible delays:
On signers: to arrive Egypt well prior to the airport in order in order the formalities to be completed successfully and on time .
Off signers: *** It is not allowed to land any off-signers unless they have a negative PCR Test***
the need to be at least 6 hours prior their flight to the airport in order the formalities to be completed successfully and on time .

Quarantine Doctor:
Quarantine doctor will attend vessel in advance before the embarking or the disembarking of any person. we shall arrange same and coordinate with master accordingly.

As of August 15th all foreign travelers (not holding Egyptian citizenship) entering Egypt (whether by land, sea or air) will be require:
– A certificate confirming negative result of coronavirus test (using a PCR test) required.
– Test must be conducted within 72 hours of reaching Egyptian territory.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

GIBRALTAR

***Flights****
Due to recent changes in Covid restrictions in the UK, British Airways will only be working Fridays and Tuesdays (only twice weekly basis) to and from Gibraltar till early next month when it will be once again reviewed.  The new agreement is subject to changes.
*************

In continuation of Port Circular No 8 of 2020 (dated 5 April 2020), please note that Crew changes will be allowed by Gibraltar Port Authority subject to compliance with the following measures:-

Embarking

• OPL will now be allowed for embarking crew.
• Only designated hotels to be used where hotel stay is required. Details of hotels which can be used can be found below.
• Agent to arrange special transport provisions – transportation from Airport/Hotel to Port needs to be carried out in the ‘Dirty Vehicle’. Details of which can be found below.
• Agent’s launch crew to avoid close contact with embarking crew.
• All crewmen to be provided with FFP2/N95 quality masks to wear in transport or when moving around Gibraltar.

Disembarking

• OPL will now be allowed for disembarking crew.
• Disembarking crew to confirm ‘free of any symptoms’ for past 14 days – vessel’s master to provide official declaration.
• Agent to arrange special transport provisions – transportation from Port to Airport/Hotel needs to be carried out in the ‘Dirty Vehicle’. Details of which can be found below.
• Agent’s launch crew to avoid close contact with disembarking crew.
• Hotel stays are allowed for a maximum of 10 days. Details of hotels which can be used can be found below. All crewmen to be provided with FFP2/N95 quality masks to wear in transport or when moving around Gibraltar.

IMPORTANT

• If crew change involves overnight stay, transfer of such crew will be done in accordance with this protocol.
• A PCR swab will be taken at the hotel and agents are responsible to ensure that the hotel is forewarned that these crews must be treated as potentially infected, unless they cleared by a negative PCR test.
• The crew details sent to Civil Contingencies will be shared with the appropriate clinic and it will be their responsibility to ensure timely sampling and dispatch of the swab.
• Crew members must remain in self-isolation until cleared by the medical or public health authorities. / All crew members must remain in their rooms and be serviced with food there:
  • They must not be allowed to congregate physically, and must be in a room where contact can be made by Public Health Authorities.
  • All crewmen staying more than one night will be required to isolate until they receive a negative swab result.
  • They can then move around Gibraltar with a face mask (this must be of a N95 or FFP2 standard).
  • They MAY be swabbed DAILY for up to 5 days, as determined by the medical authorities, but this will be on an exceptional basis and only with prior warning.
  • If negative on the fifth day, they can move around with a face mask. If they have symptoms, or a positive swab result, then they will have to isolate for 10 days, and only be free if they have a negative swab at the end of that period.
  • At the end of the initial 5 day period they will be deemed to be integrated into the Gibraltar population, and be able to mix and move freely, until off or onboarded.
  • Please note that all crew members from super yachts will need to abide by this protocol with the difference that crew will be able to isolate onboard the yacht itself if this has the capacity to provide the safety requirement.member from super yachts will need to abide by this protocol with the difference that crew will be able to isolate onboard the yacht itself if this has the capacity to provide the safety requirements.

Following the publication of Port Circular the following guidance notes have been published:
Hotel stays are not conditioned to a minimum of 5 days, nor is there a maximum stay period.
Crew members are considered suspect cases which could be incubating. In which case they are required to stay isolated to their rooms.
On day 5 if tested negative the crew member can move around Gibraltar with an FFP2 or N95 mask (or better quality if available). They are confined to their rooms until then.
Stays under 5 days– in the case that a crew member is staying at an hotel for less than 5 days, a test will be conducted on day 1. There will be a requirement to conduct a second test between day 3 to 5, preferably nearest to the day of travel / embarkation (or unless directed otherwise by DPH). They are confined to their rooms until the day of travel / embarkation.
Short day stay – crew members who are accommodated temporarily at an hotel awaiting embarkation (no overnight stay) will be required to be isolated in a designated hotel area. Use of FFP2 / N95 masks and use of hand gel at all times is required. Crew members are not to mix with crew from different ships.
PCR test : Results will be available within 24 hours dependent on local lab workload.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

GREECE

As per fresh developments, please find hereunder updated restrictions until 08/02/2021:

> General instructions that apply for all travelers regarldess their nationality:

Any travelers, regardless of their mean of arrival / departure to/from Greece, should fill in the online form PLF (Passenger Locator Form) latest one day prior their arrival/departure.  The Airlines are obliged to check the above PLF (code QR) before passenger boards airplane and if it is not available then his boarding should be denied.  In case that any visitor arrives in Greece and does not hold the specific form then the Airlines are obliged to arrange his repatriation under their own responsibility covering all relevant expenses.

The link with further instructions and where they will submit all the details is  https://travel.gov.gr/#/  

Apart from the above, they will have to have a hard copy (preferable) or electronic copy of the form and present it to the Sanitary Officers / Police and unless otherwise instructed, sample checks for Covid-19 will be conducted and the passengers will stay in quarantine until the results are out. In case that a case is found positive, then the person will be quarantined for 14 days and further instructions will be provided by Authorities / National Public Health Organization. 

***A valid PLF form with valid QR code is compulsory for entering country. Therefore, please be in contact with your travel agents / airline company in order to avoid any unnecessary costs / actions.***

– All passengers will be allowed to enter country only if they present a negative PCR test for Covid-19 (via an oral-pharyngeal or nasopharyngeal sample) which must be conducted 72 hrs prior their arrival in Greece and by designated laboratories of the Countries of origin or transit, or by public labs or Certified labs by National Authority of that Country.  Furthermore, apart from the result, they should carry with them a certification of the test’s result by a certified diagnostic center, in English language, which will include person’s name, passport No or ID No.

Additionally,  rapid tests will be carried out basis the procedure in the PLF form, upon travelers’ arrival in Greece.

Moreover, any traveler arriving in Greece, is subject to compulsory precautionary isolation at home or at the place of temporary stay as declared on the PLF form, for seven (7) days, unless they remain in Greece for a shorter period, in which case the temporary restriction is valid for this period, ie until their departure.

In case that the rapid test upon arrival will be positive then the quarantine will be for 14 days and relevant instructions / actions by National Public Health Organization will have to be followed.

– Keep in mind that all travelers should wear a protective mask in the airport areas for arrival and departure and during the flight, while the should also follow the instructions by the airport personnel.

During travelers’ stay in Greece, please note that they should follow all local instructions / protective measures, such as keeping the minimum safe distance as well as wearing masks in all places, etc.

In case above actions are not met, then Authorities in Greece can impose penalties of even 5000 EUR.  In view of this, please be in contact with your travel agent / airline for relevant arrangements and make sure to carry all the appropriate documentation upon arrival.

> Non EU Nationals:

– Temporary refusal of entry in the country for NON EU nationals but seamen are exempted from this measure as well as the citizens of the following countries: UK, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore,  UAE, Russia, Israel.

> For travelers from Israel:

They will be allowed to enter country only if they present a negative PCR test for Covid-19 which must be conducted 72 hrs prior their arrival in Greece and by designated laboratories from the Countries of origin or transit, or by public labs or Certified labs by National Authority of that country, while Israeli permanent residents will undergo a Covid-19 test again upon their arrival in Greece.   Furthermore, they should carry with them a copy of hotel reservation or any other document that indicates their temporary place of stay. 

> For travelers from Russia: 

They will be allowed to enter country only if they present a negative PCR test for Covid-19 which must be conducted 72 hrs prior their arrival in Greece and by designated laboratories from the Countries of origin or transit, or by public labs or Certified labs by National Authority of that country, while Russian permanent residents will undergo a Covid-19 test again upon their arrival in Greece.  Furthermore, they should carry with them a copy of hotel reservation or any other document that indicates their temporary place of stay.

Max number of travellers from Russia allowed: 500 passengers per week allowed to land only in Athens “El. Venizelos”, Thessaloniki “Macedonia”, Heraclion Crete “N.Kazantzakis”, International airports.

> For travelers from UK:

They will be allowed to enter country only if they present a negative PCR test for Covid-19 which must be conducted 72 hrs prior their arrival in Greece and by designated laboratories from the Countries of origin or transit, or by public labs or Certified labs by National Authority of that country.  Upon their arrival a rapid test will be carried out and they will be isolated precautionary, for 7 days  at their (temporary) place of stay as declared in PLF and upon completion of isolation they will undertake another test and basis a negative result the compulsory isolation will be lifted.

In case that the rapid test upon arrival will be positive then the quarantine will be for 14 days and relevant instructions / actions by National Public Health Organization will have to be followed.

>Until January 21st, 2020:

– Temporary restriction on  any aircraft landing from Turkey, as well as any flights and sea connections (cargo vessels are exempted).
– All flight connections with  Albania / North Macedonia are postponed (Athens International Airport is exempted) as well as any sea connections with Albania (cargo vessels are exempted).
– All flights from / to Catalonia (Spain) are postponed.
– Any rail and roads connections (some designated entry / exit points are exempted subject to Covid-19 test result prior departure and specific instructions by local authorities)

Please keep in mind that Authorities at the designated entry points can conduct Covid-19 checks to any traveller.  Therefore, please make sure to carry all the appropriate documentation upon arrival.

Apart from all the above, keep in mind that we have a lockdown.  Transportation is limited from 05.00 hrs until 21.00 hrs and no transportation is allowed from 21.00 hrs until 05.00 hrs unless there is an emergency.  Therefore, in order to be on the safe side, in case you are on a business trip in Greece, please have also with you a proof (statement, letter, etc) which justifies the purpose of movement / business in Greece.

Off-signers:

Currently, a negative Covid-19 test is requested by Port / ImmigrationAuthorities so that crewmembers can sign off, unless a different instruction by Port Authorities.  

As per latest update, the PLF form  (see above) is required to be filled in and a copy of same is required for relevant formalities.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

GUATEMALA / COSTA RICA / HONDURAS / EL SALVADOR / TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

• Crew Changes are not allowed.
• Spare Parts & CTMs can still be perform.
• Technical Repairs are allow by local technicians.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

HONG KONG

(*) As from July 28th 23:59hs no crew changes allow for Vessel calling HK without cargo operations.

• Crew Change is allow for vessels which will perform cargo operations at Hong Kong.
• Both on signers and off signers may possess valid Seaman book and Passport and e ticket, in good health condition, then not request for 14 days compulsory Quarantine but only Medical Surveillance,
• Off signers can only stay in HKG within 2 days after disembark
• No transit Service available in HK International Airport – but only allow for the internal transit.
• Hotel available for both on and off signers, also available for them if request for 14 days Quarantine.
• Spare parts, Stores, Supplies, CTMs are allowed.
• Bunkering is also available.

Full Government Press Release:
– March 18th: Compulsory Quarantine of Persons Arriving at Hong Kong from Foreign Places Regulation
– March 31st: Update Summary Table from Department of Health

For more information contact: hk@waypointports.com / +852 9728 3001

INDIA

• As per the latest communication from the Indian Government, it is now allow for foreign crew to embark on ships at India ports. Together with previous notifications, now foreign crew can Sign-On & Sign-Off at Indian Ports.
• Indian crew has been allowed to Sign-On & Sign-Off since July.
• SOP from DG Shipping for repatriation of foreign seafarers from Indian ports > Click Here. **UPDATED 21-Nov**

For more information contact: India@waypointports.com / +91 7304407453

INDONESIA

CREW CHANGE PROCEDURE

FOREIGN CREW

SIGN ON CREW :
From 01^st January – 8^th February 2021, the Indonesian Government did not allow any foreigners (except for diplomate) to enter Indonesia due to a new strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in South Wales, England (SARS-CoV-2 VUI 202012/01) and the climb of SARS-CoV-2 Virus transmission in European and Australian states

The visa application has been closed as well.

SIGN OFF CREW :
For foreign off-signers can disembark at certain port

INDONESIAN CREW

SIGN ON CREW:
On Signer must undergo PCR / Swab test before being allowed to join vessel.

SIGN OFF CREW:
Off Signer must undergo PCR / Swab test once disembark from the vessel.

For more information contact: Indonesia@waypointports.com / +62 8 1865 3310

JAPAN

For On-signers (not required to take a visa)
JPN government will request below nationality crew members to provide COVID-19 negative certificate at the arrival airport which the result of COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours before travel to Japan.

——————————————————————————
*On-signers must take test to confirm result of COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hrs prior departing from their country.
*On-signer must have original hard copy of COVID negative certificate upon arrival at airport and to be submitted to immigration office in airport.

Asia
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines

North America
Canada, United States of America

Latin America and the Caribbean
Argentine, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela

Europe
Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyz, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, Vatican

Middle East
Afghanistan, Bahrain, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates

Africa
Algeria, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central Africa, Comoros, Cote d’lvoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tunisia, Zambia, Zimbabwe

——————————————————————————

Negative COVID-19 test result conducted within 72 hours of the departure time is required.
·  This format (Word)<https://protect-eu.mimecast.com/s/E7oLC6WBmCMml3MtpZk8s?domain=mofa.go.jp> filled and signed by a medical institution is considered to be valid. So, in principle, please use this format.
·  If the applicant cannot find a medical institution which accepts the above mentioned format, a document in an optional format with all the required information in English is acceptable, though omitting any of the information listed in below may result in denial of permission to entry into Japan in accordance with the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

(1) personal information of an applicant (name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, sex)
(2) proof of authenticity of the COVID-19 test result (test method (only limited to the test method mentioned in the format), test result, date (and time) of sampling, date of test result, date of issuance of the certificate)
(3) information of a medical institution(the name and address of a medical institution /the name of a doctor/stamp seal(or sign by doctor))

—————————————————————————————————–

-: COVID test (ANTIGEN TEST) will be carried out by Quarantine officer upon arrival at airport.
-: Arrival crews needs to be Quarantined at authorized accommodation till confirmed the result(Normally 3 -5 hours or if retest next day)
-: Once confirmed negative(No COVID-19 holder), crews will be released and able to connect to vessel.
(Further hotel accommodation use and/or public transportation use should be avoided, only agent car escorting and direct connection to the vessel is recommended) 

In case next port is China within 14 days, additional PCR test at clinic approved by Chinese government for joining crew needs to be carried out  72h before joining the vessel.

For Off-signers
Vessel must be at sea for at least 14 days after leaving above listed port before entering Japanese ports.
In this case, it might be possible for the port agent to issue shore passes (landing permits) for off signers.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

MALAYSIA

As announced by YAB Prime Minister of Malaysia on 11^th January 2021, the Government has imposed a Movement Control Order (MCO) in the states of Penang, Selangor, Federal Territory (Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan), Melaka, Johor & Sabah effective from 13 until 26 January 2021 & Kelantan was subsequently placed  under MCO beginning 16^th January. However as announced by Senior Minister of Malaysia on 19^th January 2021, the Government has imposed a Movement Control Order (MCO) in all states except for Sarawak effective from 22^nd January 2021 until 04^th February 2021 in order to curb the spread of Covid-19 virus.

Crew change procedure @ Pasir Gudang & Kuantan as follows:  

Joiners

1. Vessel need to be cleared inward clearance with local Authorities.
2. Crew need to arrange Covid19 PCR test at home country, prior flight to Malaysia.
3. Owner to advise flight details to agent and we will apply for LG from Immigration.
4. Crew then arrive KLIA, meet with our representatives in KLIA Airport and crews undergo to quarantine for 10 days.
5. In day 8 quarantine, there have 2^nd swap test (If results come back negative)
6. Crew are allowed to join ship vessel at Pasir Gudang/Kuantan.

Off Signer

1. Vessel need to be cleared inward clearance with local Authorities.
2. We will then arrange local doctor for the Covid19 PCR test onboard.
3. After received result (If results come back negative), we will bring crew for formalities to quarantine centre. At this point we need flight ticket details about 11 days ahead.
4  Once all formalities cleared, crew will head up to Quarantine Hotel for 10 days.
5. In day 8 quarantine, there have 2^nd swap test (If results come back negative).
6. Crew are allowed to perform Sign Off formalities and flight back to home country.

Remarks :
=======

– LOG can be obtained once vessel cleared Inward clearance.
– Crew must have LOG in hand prior arrival in KLIA Airport. Without LOG, crew cannot pass the Immigration Counter.
– Harbour master will closed operation from 0001H-0800H every day.
– Port Health allowed sign on/off formalities from 0900H-2200H.
– Immigration Sign Off formalities can be done during office hour only (Special Pass Required).
– If weekend we need notice 2 days in advance in order to inform Highest Immigration / Highest Officer only can issue Special Pass. (Johor State Authorities Weekend Change To Friday And Saturday Effective On 01.01.2014).
– Above regulation/procedure is subjected by our government, may have changes from time to time.

In order to  perform crew change (On/Off) activities at Pasir Gudang/Kuantan for vessel port stay not less than 20 days in order for us to have sufficient time to obtain LOG, Quarantine (10 Days), Covid19 PCR Test for Offsigner before disembarking as per requirements from our local Authorities.

PORT KLANG & TANJUNG PELEPAS

LOG can be issued prior to vessel’s arrival at the moment, as such on-signers can arrive to commence on 10 days quarantine.

Vessel has to call for cargo operations at Port Klang, for Tanjung Pelepas we can arrange full agency for vessel to anchor at Kukup anchorage to carry out crew change (subject to space availability).

Details/documents required

For on-signers (all docs required to apply for LOG):

1. Copy passport & seaman book
2. Flight Ticket Details 
3. Crew list
4. Voyage Memo / Last 10 ports of call
5. Health Declaration Form (from vessel)
6. Safe Manning Certificate
7. A copy of the letter of employment from the Principal
8. Crew must fill up and complete the Health Declaration form for Marine Department (declaring crew to be free from Covid-19). Form will be provided by Agent. This form must be hand carried by the joining crew.
9. Crew must download and Install the MySejahtera application on their mobile (this enables the Health Authorities to monitor the crew’s movement and contact tracing).
10. All joining officers and engineers must hand carry their valid COC/CRA as per vessel’s flag.

IMPORTANT: Please ensure that the crew change is in compliance with the Safe Manning Certificate of the vessel as this is being monitored by Local Authorities.

For off-signers:

1. Copy passport & seaman book
2. Crew list
3. Voyage memo
4. SSCEC
5. Safe manning cert
6. Maritime Declaration of Health
7. Electronic air ticket to home country as per the crew’s passport.
   i. To issue once approval granted by authorities.
   ii. Required to issue direct flight to home country only, with no transit in between.
8. An undertaking by the Principal (by e-mail) that the crew member will not face any difficulty whilst travelling through transit airport and the airport at his final destination.
9. Temperature log of last 14 days for the signing off crew
10. Crew must download and Install the MySejahtera application on their mobile (this enables the Health Authorities to monitor the crew’s movement and contact tracing).
11. All joining officers and engineers must hand carry their valid COC/CRA as per vessel’s flag.

IMPORTANT: Please ensure that the crew change is in compliance with the Safe Manning Certificate of the vessel as this is being monitored by Local Authorities.

Full documentation from the Ports: Johor Port – Northport

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

MALDIVES

COVID-19 HEALTH SCREENING AND CLEARANCE  

ON-SIGNERS: Allcrew members arriving by air in to the Maldives for sign-on to a vessel are required to Present COVID-19 Negative PCR and Test the result issued not more than 72hrs prior to departure, counting from the first port of embarkation en-route to the Maldives. Note that On-signers will not have to complete any quarantine period or they will not be isolated. They can stay in a hotels or to the vessel directly from the airport. There is no restriction for any nationalities. Please remind to send the following document to us in advance (at least 48 hours prior to arrival time) to arrange a crew visa and sponsorship:
1. Arrival Ticket copy
2. Seaman book copy
3. Passport copy
4- Crew Health Declaration form
5-  Sign-On Crew Passenger Details 

OFF-SIGNERS: Off-signers will not have to complete any quarantine period or they will not be isolated after sign-off from the vessel. They can travel to hotels or to the airport directly from the vessel. Off- Signers will get 7 days’ time to leave from the country after sign-off from the vessel. But this period can be extended if there is no flight available or flight postponed/Cancelled. The agent will need following documents to arrange sign-off:
1. Departure ticket copy
2. Passport copy
3. Sign Off Crew Passenger Details 

For more information contact: India@waypointports.com / +91 7304407453

MALTA

• Crew members coming from safe countries (below list) there are no restrictions.
• Crew members coming from safe countries marked in red (below list) they need to provide negative PCR test 72-48 hours prior arrival.
• Crew members coming from countries not in the list needs to provide negative PCR test 72-48 hours prior arrival and will have to remain in quarantine during their stay in Malta until their vessel arrives. Once their vessels arrives they will be allowed to embark where they should continue the remaining days of quarantine onboard. Off signers need to stay in quarantine during their stay in Malta while waiting for their flight.

1. The travel of persons employed as crew on board sea going ships for repatriation and change of crew is considered as necessary and essential and an exemption, in terms of Legal Notice 244 of 2020, as amended, may be granted for crew members to join ships at Maltese Ports and Anchorages.
2. Crew changes for persons originating from countries listed in LN 244 of 2020, as amended are subject to the requirements as applicable to other travelers in line:
   • Standard Operating Procedure for Public Health Travel Declaration Forms
   • Standard Operating Procedure for Passenger Locator Forms
3. Crew changes from other countries are permitted subject to compliance with following:
   • Submission of forms as applicable in para 2.
   • Seafarers (crew) intending to join a ship in Malta be tested for the presence of the COVID-19 virus in an accredited laboratory, 48-72 hours prior to their travelling to Malta.
   • Negative results and clean bill of health to be forwarded to the Port Health Medic on portmedic@gov.mt and copied to quarantine.covid19@gov.mt for approval and following which travel to Malta will be permitted. Results not in the English language are to be accompanied by a translation and certified by the Embassy.
   • Clearance by the Port Health Medic is to be attached to the Public Health Travel Declaration Form and presented to the check in desk on departure.
   • Masks/Visors are to be worn by the passenger during the flight, at the Malta International Airport and during transport.
   • Upon arrival, crew members are to be picked up by company representative and proceed directly to the vessel, where they are to remain in isolation for 14 full days.
   • In the case that crew must wait for a number of hours for the arrival of the vessel they are to proceed directly to a temporary accommodation and stay in isolation until they are transferred onto vessel. Location is to be communicated to the Port Health Medic and copied to quarantine.covid19@gov.mt.
   • Crew joining a vessel which is to remain in any Maltese Port are to be admitted directly into quarantine for 14 full days in isolation and tested for the presence of the COVID 19 virus on their 13th day of quarantine. Test result is to be communicated to the Port Health Medic.
   • On arrival of the new crew members on-board, the relieved seafarers would proceed directly to the airport to take their outbound flight or to self-isolation until they are due to take their outbound flight.
   • PPEs and other precautionary measures as required by Health Authorities to be complied with throughout the whole passage.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

MARTINIQUE & GUADELOUPE

• Only cargo vessels (containers, tankers, bulk) are authorized to proceed alongside inner Ports of Martinique & Guadeloupe subject to the approval of the Port Authorities after checking the status of the Maritime Health declaration which must be transmitted to the agent on daily basis. Also, the crew list must contain the date and place of embarkation for all crew members.
• A strict 15-day lock-down decided by the French government requiring people in French islands to remain at home came into effect since 17^th/03 at noon.
• All vessels alongside must take all necessary actions to protect the crew members and avoid contact with the Terminal staff.
• During this time it cannot be guarantee the feasibility of usual services (crew change, transportation, CTM, spare parts delivery, etc….) because of the 15-day lock-down decided by the French government.
• Pilotage: no movement (anchorage, berthing/unberthing) is possible between 00.01 LT and 04.00 LT – possible delay due to minimum service staff for the port traffic.
• While alongside, the crew members must remain on board or are only authorized to remain closed to the ship for ops reasons.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

MEXICO

Altamira/Tampico (Nearest airport TAM)

Joiners:
They have to arrive to Altamira / Tampico and stay isolated by 7 days in a hotel, after that  time they have to take COVID19 test and await for results (may take 3 days) after received results and if all OK, a written authorization will be issued. Finally and before go onboard (maximum 12 hours) joiners must visit a doctor for a general revision.

Leavers:
It is only required to get authorization a 7 day temperature log for off signers, show maritime health declaration and passport copy.

Veracruz (Nearest airport VER)

Leavers:
– Accredit the free practique
– To present the Maritime Declaration of Health, signed and stamped by the captain.
– Deliver a document indicating that the crew has completed 3 days on board, not visiting the port, the minimum of contact has been maintained by personnel external to the ship,  signed and stamped by the captain.
– Deliver a request (document) of  change / disembark directed to the International  Health Department.
– Crew list (and passengers if there are) that disembark, copy of valid ID.
– Record of crew temperatures during the 3 days before to disembark, 2 times daily, with a 12-hour lapse, signed and stamped by the captain.
– Deliver program travel, itinerary including dates and times of trave.

Joiners:
– Deliver a request (document) of change / embark directed to the International Health Department.
– Crew list (and passengers if there are) that embark, copy of valid ID.
– Deliver program travel, itinerary including dates and times of travel with calls.
– Stay in a hotel for 3 days before on arrival, complete a document with the crew temperatures during the 3 days before to embark, 2 times daily, with a 12-hour lapse, signed and stamped by authorized personnel.
– Implement all personal health and safety measures recommended by the secretary of health during the travel, to avoid contact with personnel outside the embark.
– Present covid test 24 hours prior to embark, by a certified laboratory.
If the covid test is positive, the crew member must be confined in a hotel for 15 days, and re-test the covid until the result is negative.

Topolobampo (Nearest airport LMM)

1. First, all On signers need to pass thru a medical examination at local Airport, performed by the Sanitary authority., If they are OK and pass the physical examination, they are allowed to follow with immigration formalities and then to the vessel. In additional, the Authority is requesting the following:
   • Medical certificate duly signed and stamped by the Company informing the good healthy condition the crew-member.
   • COVID19 Test report with at least 5 days prior arriving to Mexico city Airport.
   • Letter to the Local Authorities informing regarding crew change, signed by the Company informing all crew-member are in good health conditions.
   • Letter of the crewmember informing that he is in good health conditions and if he has been in contact with any person with COVID19 symptoms recently.
   • All transportations must be done from Airport – Immigration to Hotel or to Vessel directly, but never to Agent´s offices between it, due to COVID 19 countermeasures.

2. A medical check will be required when they land in Mexico, at least in Los Mochis Airport (LMM), a medical team will waiting for them, prior advising of the Agent, in order to perform them a physical check to all of them.

3. All crew-members that try to entry to Mexico, needs a Mexican visa or at least a US Visa and seaman books in order the immigration authority allow the entry to our country.

4. The vessel can sail without a clear departure flight of the off-signers. But please note that due to covid-19 measures, all the Hotels are at 30% of the capacity working only, so, enough rooms or Hotel accommodation are not warranty in this point.

5. Medical & Immigration requirements for the off-signers:Medical certificate duly signed and stamped by the Company (Or Master) informing the good healthy condition the crew-member:

• Letter to the Local Authorities informing regarding crew change, signed by the Company or Master.
• Letter of the crew-member informing that he is in good health conditions and if he has been in contact with any person with COVID-19 symptoms recently.

D) A Medical team will perform a physical test before to allow them the disembark.

E) All transportation must be done from vessel to Immigration to Airport or Hotel to Airport, but never to Agent´s offices between it, due to COVID19 countermeasures.

Lázaro Cárdenas (Nearest airport LZC)

On signers to be received, 

• Minimum 2 working days fully informaiton.
• General Medical Certificate stating in good health conditions: No cough, no fever, etc.not necesary to specify “negative Covid-19”
• Color copy: passport, Seamanbook, USA visa.
• Full Itinerary.
• Local airport not working now, they may  arrive to the nearest Intl Airport “ Ixtapa Zihuatanjo” which is 120 km far by land driving.
• Crew should proceed directly to vsl (no hotel accomodation),
• Free practique

Off signers:

• Color copy:Passport /seamanbook /(usa visa in case needed it.)
• Check up by health doctor.
• They can travel to Ixtapa-zihuatanejo intl airport, same cost as above stated, or may travel by land to mex city intl airport “Benito Juarez”.

Salina Cruz (Nearest Airport HUX)

Onsigners; US valid visa, passport and seaman’s book

Offsigners: Passport and seaman’s book.

Guaymas (Nearest Airport HMO)

Onsigners: US valid visa, passport and seaman’s book

Offsigners: Passport and seaman’s book.

Mazatlán  (Nearest Airport MZT)

On-signers: US valid visa, passport and seaman’s book

Off-signers: Passport and seaman’s book.

– Information from the MX Health Authority on Crew Changes.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

MOROCCO

• Moroccan ports are all open for business but restricted to cargo operations only.
• The country is on a full lockdown and crew changes or supplies are not allowed.
• Tangier Med anchorage is open for bunkering activities but launch services are not allowed

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

PERU

• Crew Changes are not allowed.
• Airport with restrictions.
• Spare Parts, Technical Repairs are still allowed.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

PORTUGAL

• Disembarks only allowed in force majeure situations requiring a valid reason for the disembark.
• Embarks only with origin in airports outside the risk area and on arrival if any suspicious the crewmember will not be allowed to embark and may stay in quarantine.
• Crew Change Procedure:
  • Declaration stating the crew member is Covid 19 negative.
  • Crew member’s passport and seaman’s book copies.
  • Flight itinerary.
  • Ship’s maritime declaration of health+copy of SSEC is compulsory and included on ship’s isps pre/arrivals as usually.
  • On/signers seafarers must hold  valid Shegen visa , no chance to obtain upon arrival.
  • Off/signers is possible to get transit visa when they are travelling to them origin countries.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

SINGAPORE

Crew Change

————————————————————————————————————————————————-
***COVID-19 PROTOCOL ON CREW CHANGE AND REPATRIATION OF SEAFARERS*** (New Version – Sept 24th)
————————————————————————————————————————————————-

Maritime Port Authority of Singapore

1) ENHANCEMENTS TO CREW CHANGE FOR CARGO SHIPS IN THE PORT OF
SINGAPORE. (PMC N°38)

2) BEST PRACTICES FOR SINGAPORE-REGISTERED SHIPS TO MINIMISE RISK OF CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) ON BOARD.

3) CREW CHANGE FOR CARGO SHIPS IN THE PORT OF
SINGAPORE. **Update** 19th January 2021

4) ADVISORY FOR SHORE PERSONNEL AND SHIP CREW VISITING OR WORKING ONBOARD VESSELS ALONGSIDE WHARVES, IN SHIPYARDS AND AT ANCHORAGES.

5) PROHIBITION OF CREW CHANGE IN SINGAPORE FOR CREW WITH RECENT TRAVEL HISTORY TO THE UNITED KINGDOM AND SOUTH AFRICA.

6) REQUIREMENTS FOR SHORE-BASED PERSONNEL BOARDING VESSELS AT ANCHORAGES, SHIPYARDS, TERMINALS AND MARINAS, IN THE PORT OF SINGAPORE.

7) ICA List of Countries for SHN & SWAB Requirement.

Air Travel

• Returning Singapore residents (i.e. Singapore citizens, permanent residents) will be issued with a 14-day Stay-Home Notice (SHN) upon entry into Singapore.
• Travellers with travel history within the last 14 days to Hubei province of Mainland China will be issued Quarantine Order (QO).
• From 27 March 2020, 0900 hours, all travellers must submit a health declaration via the SG Arrival Card e-Service before proceeding with immigration clearance^[1]

For visitors seeking entry into Singapore

• All short-term visitors will not be allowed to enter or transit through Singapore.
• Visitors who need to visit Singapore due to extenuating reasons may submit the completed Form 14 (Part V is optional). to ICA_nCoV_request@ica.gov.sg, together with the following documents:

For long-term pass holders seeking entry into Singapore

• From 29 March 2020, 2359 hours, all foreigners holding ICA-issued long-term passes (i.e. Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) or Student’s Pass (STP), or In-Principle Approval (IPA) letters for LTVP/STP, who plan to enter Singapore from any country must obtain permission from the relevant agency before they commence their journey.

For more information please visit : https://www.ica.gov.sg/covid-19

(*) Source: Ministry of Health / Immigration & Checkpoint Authority / MPA Singapore

For more information contact: Singapore@waypointports.com / +65 9645 6819

SOUTH AFRICA

– Government Notices N°846 > 31-Jul-2020

• South African Government has imposed the following measures:
  • Travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States of America, the United Kingdom and China with effect from March 18th.
  • Travelers from medium-risk countries, such as Portugal, Hong Kong and Singapore, will be required to undergo high intensity screening, including self-quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days.
• In direct relation to the above and to Crew Changes, as from March 18th:
  • All sea cruises undertaken by cruise liner vessels into and out of any seaport within South Africa must be terminated until further notice.
  • The sign-on of crew from high-risk and medium-risk countries for commercial vessels will not be permitted.
  • The sign-off of crew from vessel arriving from high-risk and medium-risk countries into any seaport in South Africa within the incubation period of covid-19 will not be permitted.
  • Applications for Off Port Limits for services to be rendered on board vessels will be thoroughly assessed before permission is granted.
  • Applications for Off Port Limits for crew changes will not be permitted.
  • The above will not apply to MEDAVACS for medical emergencies, provided that all the necessary port and clinical protocols are adhered to.
  • No vessel arriving from an international port must be brought into any seaport in South Africa, unless such has been communicated with Port Health.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

SOUTH KOREA

Foreign COVID-19 patients in South Korea should bear their costs of hospitalization and treatment at least in part or the total amount of costs based on the principle of diplomatic reciprocity from 0001LT 24^th/Aug.
If a person who violates COVID19 prevention measures is confirmed to be COVID19, he/she shall pay the full amount of hospital treatment expenses (KCDC conference) from 0001LT 17^th/Aug.

SIGN ON :

* Please be advised that “all seafarers regardless of nationality (It will be in effect from 24th/July.)” departing from their country (except Korean Passport Holders) travelling to and transiting in South Korea will be required to submit the certificate issued from accredited hospitals designated by Korean embassy within 48 hours before departure indicating that they have been tested negative for COVID-19 on a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.

Recently, there have been many cases in which COVID-19 has been confirmed among seafarers who entered Korea. Therefore, the South Korean government announced that visa-free entry of seafarers will be suspended from July 24, 2020 (Friday).
From July 24, 2020 (Friday), Seafarers who plan to enter Korea through airplane or vessel for the purpose of joining a vessel which is anchored or to be anchored in Korea must secure a visa prior to entry.

* Exempted countries : USA, Guyana, Malta, Ireland, UK, Nicaragua, Dominican Federation, Mexico, Barbados, Venezuela, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, Guam, New Caledonia, Palau, Monaco, Vatican, San Marino, Andorra, Albania, Slovenia

List of requirements: Visa Application Form, Original Passport, Copy of Passport bio-page, Proof of Seafarer Status (ex. Seaman’s Book), Vessel’s Certificate of Registry, Employment Contract, Notice of Scheduled entry and departure, COVID 19 related medical certificate, Medical certificate.

Processing period: It takes 14 working days to get a Korean visa at the embassy because the regulation has been strengthened caused by COVID-19.

1) In case of on signers, they must stay at the isolation facility for 14 days mandatory assigned randomly by government office due to COVID- 19 after they have arrived at Incheon airport as per government guidance.
2) All crew will be transferred from Airport to Government facility under Government control, do not handle by the agent.
3) After on signers have arrived at the quarantine facility COVID19 test will be carried out and it takes approx.1 day or 2 days to receive the result of COVID19 test – Cost under Korean Government.
4) They or Agent must pay KRW 120,000 (approx. USD 101.69) for isolation facility per day per person when they arrived at the isolation facility as 100% prepayment.
– Isolation facility charge KRW 120,000 (approx. USD 101.69) shall be paid as 100% prepayment
– Isolation facility will be assigned randomly by government office (we can never know in advance)
– Meal/food will be provided
– Smoking is prohibited
– Internet WIFI is available
– After on signers arrived at the quarantine facility assigned by government, they will proceed with a diagnostic test for COVID-19 and it takes about 1 or 2 days to receive the result.
5) According to latest quarantine regulation, on signers (seaman’s book holder) can leave from the isolation facility earlier than 14 days subject to following requirements are met.

Requirements

a) On signers can leave only from the isolation facility on the same day when vessel arrived at the port after completing COVID test and receiving “negative result for” COVID-19 but it depends on the isolation facility respectively whether they allowed to leave earlier or not.

b) In this case, on signers must transfer/move only via the agent car from the facility to the vessel at the port directly without any stop-over on the same day within 12 hours before ship’s departure from the port.

* If on signers will visit some other place not the port/vessel, there will be a penalty to agent by the authorities.

c) In case crew leave from the facility earlier than 14 days, there will be a penalty to cancel for 10% of 14 days isolation charge per person. (KRW 120,000 per pers per day X 14 days = KRW 1,680,000 X 0.1 % = KRW 168,000, approx. USD 142.37)

d) Following required documents must be submitted to isolation facility & the authorities in advance.

Required docs

1) Ship’s departure schedule & application form provided by the isolation facility
2) Ship’s departure crew list signed & stamped by Master
3) Copy of passport & semen’s book for on signers
4) Evidence of EDI transmission for ship’s inward & outward
5) Port clearance
6) Letter of guarantee made by shipping agency
7) Copy of employment contract

* The required docs are different from respective isolation facilities and we will ask if we need to receive additional docs at that time.

* There is the possibility to be rejected to leave on signers from the isolation facility earlier than 14 days as below reasons.

a) It depends on the isolation facility respectively as the isolation facility has been assigned by government office randomly and some facilities do not allow to leave earlier than 14 days.
b) In case on signer has received “positive result” for the test of COVID-19.
c) If there would be new confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the isolation facility during on signer’s staying at the facility, on signer must stay at the isolation facility for 14 days without leaving earlier.
d) Even if above required documents have been submitted to government office, it can be rejected as insufficient/inappropriate data or judgement by government office.
* If owner/your good company will take responsibility for above mentioned uncertainty, we will do our best to arrange for leaving from the isolation facility as early as possible.

<In case of crew/on signer joined vessel in the Special countries appointed by Korean government>

* Special countries: Nepal, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan.

If the ship come to Korea with crews who joined the vessel at above special countries after 03^rd/Aug 2020,

that crews need PCR test certification issued by appointed from Korea Government within 48hours

before ship’s departure from the special country.

Q : Does this apply to crew travelling from the ‘special country’ or crew that joined in special country?
A : It will be applied to crew that joined in the special country and in this case, crews need PCR test certification which is issued by appointed from Korea Government in Special country.

Q : Does this apply to crew who will be on board when the vessel calls at Korea and are not disembarking / going ashore?
A :  In case crews have PCR test certification issued in Special country, they can disembark from the vessel after completion of special quarantine inspection & receiving the result of COVID-19.

* If crews do not have PCR test certification issued in the Special country, total quarantine inspection will be carried for all ship’s arrival crews with COVID-19 test upon ship’s arrival at the port of South Korea and it has been prohibited

to disembark all crews from the vessel.

* In case there would be any confirmed cases of COVID-19 with the positive result, vessel must sail out from the port of South Korea and there will be any penalties by the related authorities.

* In this case, the crews/a confirmed case of coronavirus must bear the all expenses involved in treatment of COVID-19.

**VERY IMPORTANT**

– Effective from 8th September, the relevant crews and company involved in below cases will be imprisoned for 1 year or fined KRW10,000,000 (USD 10,000):
1) crews to submit substandard documents for PCR test, issued 48hours after vessel sailed or not issued at designated PCR Test centers in Korea Foreign Office,
2) non submission of PCR test result,
3) the case to submit forged or falsified documents

< Exceptions provision regarding submission of PCR negative certificate for Vessel >

* Announced by quarantine office on 20^th/Oct and it will be in effect from 20^th/Oct

Quarantine office announced that in case crew change or shore leave of crew from 6 enhanced qurantine measure countries and Russia:

* Mandatory submission of PCR negative certificate : it will in effect from 2020/08/03 (date of ship’s departure from above countries)

* Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz, Philippines, Ukraine, Russia

1) Vessel exempted from submission of PCR negative certificate

– In following cases, it would be difficult to determine whether voyage plan to South Korea is planned.
– Departure date of vessel more than 28 days and went to two or more ports before arriving in South Korea.

* Calculated twice the monitoring period of Corona 19 (14 days) by referring to the WHO standard.

Example
a) ENHANCED QUARANTINE MEASURE COUNTRIES(09.03 DEPARTURE) -> COUNTRY A -> COUNTRY B -> SOUTH KOREA(10/03 ARRIVED)

COUNTRY A – ENHANCED QUARANTINE MEASURE COUNTRIES (09.03 DEPARTURE) -> COUNTRY B -> COUNTRY C -> SOUTH KOREA (10/03 ARRIVED)

* Countries A, B or C are countries other than 6 enhanced quarantine measure countries and Russia.

– There was no voyage plan, but vessel arrived in South Korea due to bad weather.
– There was no voyage plan but it was inevitable, in this case the director of quarantine will decide.

2) For below cases, when received PCR negative certificate 48 hours before

– Departure but departure was delayed, and document was delayed, and document became standard.

*DEPARTURE WAS DELAYED DUE TO BAD WEATHER OR NATURAL DISASTER.

* DEPARTURE WAS DELAYED DUE TO VESSEL’S TECHNICAL PROBLEM.

* OTHER INEVITABLE CASES WILL BE DETERMINED BY DIRECTOR OF QUARANTINE.

PRESENT	REVISED
Vessels arriving in South Korea without valid PCR negative Certificate will be obliged to take PCR test for ALL CREW MEMBERS.	Vessels arriving in South Korea without valid PCR negative Certificate will be obliged to take PCR test for CERTAIN CREW MEMBER.

for case 1) above, since vessel is excluded from submission of pcr negative certificate the case is excluded for mandatory submission of pcr negative certificate.

DEFINITION OF VALID PERIOD OF PCR NEGATIVE CERTIFICATE

– if the period of certificate is over than 48hours based on departure time of vessel, will be regarded as substandard.

EX) DEPARTURE TIME 00:00HRS APPLIED

• 2020/10/05 01:00 DEPARTURE: CERTIFICATES ISSUED AFTER 2020/10/03  00:00HRS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
• 2020/10/05 10:00 DEPARTURE: CERTIFICATES ISSUED AFTER 2020/10/03  00:00HRS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
• 2020/10/05 23:00 DEPARTURE: CERTIFICATES ISSUED AFTER 2020/10/03  00:00HRS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

REMARK: incase he/she did not intend to refuse, obstruct, or evade the request for submission or presentation of documents requested by the quarantine director.

• Please remind that possibility of exceptions on ships subject to accusation.

• For long term voyage cases more than 42day (14days X 3) stopover country less than two, it is hard to determine the voyage plan to South Korea. (will handle this case as same as substandard document submission but will be excepted from accusation)

• (Several voyages) in case vessel departed from 6 enhanced quarantine measure countries and Russia and arrived in South Korea within 28days but had five or more voyages. (will handle this case as same as substandard document submission but will be excepted from accusation)

Ex)

• Enhanced quarantine measure countries (2020/09/20 departure)- >country A -> country B -> country C -> country D -> country E -> South Korea (2020/10/10 arrived).

• country A -> enhanced quarantine measure countries (2020/09/20 departure)- > B -> country C -> country D -> country E -> South Korea (2020/10/10 arrived). (If there are any other cases than above, quarantine director will judge and file an accusation.)

Off Signers:

**NOTICE** > Off signing crews must carry out a diagnostic test for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and receive “negative result” for COVID-19 via quarantine office before disembarkation (It will be in effect from 06th/July).
*COVID-19 test charges will be covered by Korean government.
*14 days isolation after disembarkation mandatory (It will be in effect from 13th/July).
*The list of off signing crews must be submitted to Busan Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries 48 hours prior to ship’s arrival at the port.

1) First of all, off signing crew needs to receive a special quarantine inspection for COVID-19 with following requirements by quarantine officer upon ship’s berthing:
a) Self-diagnosis application must be installed in their mobile phone in advance.
b) Off signing crew must fill out “TRAVEL RECORD DECLARATION” & “HEALTH DECLARATION FORM” to submit it to quarantine officer.
c) Record for all ship’s arrival crew’s temperature.
d) Off signing crew must have original passport and seamen’s book.

2) After completion of a special quarantine inspection, quarantine officer will issue a quarantine certificate (RED COLOR) and we/agent can arrange crew shore passes by submitting a quarantine certificate (RED COLOR) to immigration office.(The shore passes can be used only for a diagnostic test at quarantine office).
3) After completion of sample collection from off signing crew, quarantine officer will issue a quarantine certificate (YELLOW COLOR) and we/agent needs to collect it from quarantine office.
4) off signing crew must receive a diagnostic test for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) by quarantine officer or off signing crew needs to go to the nearest hospital (a Screening Clinic) or designated place/quarantine office via an agent car.
* In case of a diagnostic test for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), it takes approx.10 hours or 1 day to receive the result.
* Off signing crew must stay in his cabin on board till the result of COVID-19 to come in.
* Vessel cannot sail from the port till the result of COVID-19 to come in.
5) After completion of a diagnostic test for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and receiving “negative result” for COVID-19, quarantine officer will issue a quarantine certificate (GREEN COLOR) and we/agent needs to collect it from quarantine office. (a certificate GREEN COLOR is only available for immigration clearance)
6) After completion of above procedure, off signing crew can disembark from the vessel and then move into the isolation facility (after proceeding immigration clearance) via agent car only (Prohibition to use a public transportation) and it is necessarily required to stay at the isolation facility for 14 days as per latest regulation.
7) There are the isolation facilities only at Incheon & Yeosu & Busan port for off signers assigned by government office.
8) The isolation charge is KRW 120,000 (approx. USD 101.69) per day per person and it shall be paid as pre-payment when they arrived at the isolation facility.
9) Off signing crew needs 14 days mandatory isolation without leaving from the facility earlier than 14 days.
* Off signing crew must move/transfer from the facility to the airport directly via agent car on the leaving date.
* We/agent must report the time of departure from the facility & the time of arrival at the airport to the authorities.
10) We/agent have to apply for available isolation facility to Busan Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries 4 days before disembarkation of off signing crew (need advance booking for isolation facility) and then the authorities will reply to us/agent about availability of facility after application.
11) If off signers necessarily need to leave from the facility earlier than 14 days, following required docs must be submitted to the authorities 2 days (before 3 P.M) before the leaving date at the least and it will be decided finally by the authorities after reviewing.

Required docs

a) Flight ticket (the leaving date from facility).
b) Seaman’s book & passport.
c) Letter of Guarantee for departure made by agent.
– Requirements In this case, off signer can only leave from the isolation facility within 12 hours before their departure flight schedule.
– If off signers will visit some other places not the port/vessel/airport, there will be a penalty to agent by the authorities.

Exemption of 14 days isolation for off signing crew:
If following conditions are met, we/agent can apply for exemption of 14 days isolation for off signing crew to authorities 48 hours before ship’s arrival.
Finally, it will be decided by authority’s judgement whether the mandatory 14 days isolation requirement will be exempted or not.

Requirements
• all crew stayed onboard without disembarking,
• there was no crew change, and
• there was no development of COVID-19 suspected symptoms or no confirmed case of COVID-19 onboard the ship.
• After ship’s departure from last port, the regulation describes that the vessel needs to have a 14 days interval from last port without calling at other ports before the port of South Korea.

<Submission for negative result of PCR>

* Please be advised that effective from 03^rd Aug, 2020 following nationality seafarers departing from below countries and Russia travelling to and transiting at the port of South Korea will be required to submit the certificate issued from accredited hospitals designated by Korean embassy within 48 hours before departure indicating that they have been tested negative for COVID-19 on a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.

– Nepal (effective from 26^th/Oct 2020), Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz, Philippines, Uzbekistan, Russia.

* Before quarantine officer’s boarding and commencing quarantine inspection upon ship’s arrival or berthing at the port, the certificate for negative result of PCR for above seafarers must be submitted to quarantine office by shipping company or agent in advance.

* If the seafarers do not meet the standard of PCR (exceed of 48 hours or issued by unaccredited hospital or organization) or they do not have any result of PCR, all crews on board have been prohibited to disembark from the vessel and after receiving “negative result”, they can only do the work on board the vessel.

<In case there is crew change at the port of foreign country and ship’s next port is China>

a) This regulation is applied to all ships which is arriving in China.
b) If there is any crew change at the port of foreign country within 14 days before ship’s arrival in China.
c) Crew must carry out the PCR test at the hospital/an institute assigned by Chinese embassy within 3 days before their embarkation at embarked port of foreign country.
d) Crew must have the certificate of the PCR test issued from the hospital/an institute assigned by Chinese before ship’s departure from the port before China.
e) When vessel arrive and proceeding ship’s entry formalities at the port of China, the certificate of the PCR test must be submitted to Chinese authorities.
f) In case the rules are violated, there will be restriction for ship’s arrival or departure and if there would be a serious problem caused, need to take all the responsibilities governmental rules as per Chinese law.
g) If the certificate of the PCR has been issued/made by counterfeit, falsification, a false and the virus will spread or there would be any possibility to spread the virus, need to take criminal responsibility.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

SPAIN

*************************************************************
CEUTA
As from October 28th:
– TRANSIT RESTRICTIONS: No transit of passengers in or out of the city for the next 2 weekends.
> From Friday 30/10 at 00:00hrs –  Monday 02/11 at 24:00hrs
> From Friday 06/11 at 00:00hrs – Sunday 08/11 at 24:00hrs
– CURFEW: Everyday starting at 23:00hrs til 06:00hrs of next day.
*************************************************************

Requirements in order to perform a Crew Change at Spanish Ports:

• Vessel’s MDH.
• Crew documents (Passport and seamans book).
• Vessel disembarking crew cannot depart from the Port until crew have boarded the aircraft.
• In case flight cancellation, crew should return to vessel. Master should confirm acceptance of this in writing.
• Crew cannot embark / disembark until they have confirmed flights. (Eticket)
• Confirmation that there are no flight prohibition in country of destination (Philipines/India/..etc) and the countries of transit is required. Also confirmation that there are no prohibitions on persons arriving to Spain.
• Inmigration Authorities must also approve the disembarkation. They require 1 working day notice for approval.
• Please note crew change is permitted at Spanish ports (on the above conditions) but as only limited hotels are opened, we recommend the arrival / departure flights must be very adjusted, direct embarkation and disembarkation preferable.

Please note the following regarding visa applications

1. Full confirmed flights details with PTA ticket number / Amadeus reference along with copies of valid passports, seaman books and visas are required in order to proceed visa application formalities.
2. All non-EU on-signers must travel with valid Schengen visas issued by the Spanish Embassy of their country of origin. It is the responsibility of each on-signer’s representative to liaise directly with the embassy in question to apply for travelling visa, as agents we can only provide Letter of Invitations (LOI) if required. We will not be held liable for any individuals travelling without valid documentation.
3. All non-EU off signers will require a valid Schengen visa for transit. As agents we can arrange all the necessary immigration formalities.

Note 1: Off signers requiring Schengen visa arrangements will not be able to travel on the same date of vessel’s arrival.

Note 2:  Visa application forms must be presented at immigration police 72 hrs prior to time of departure flight. During this time an appointment will be arranged for off-signer(s) must attend in person in order to arrange formalities.

Note 3: Failure to make aforementioned appointment will result in cancellation of visa and process must be restarted with a new application (see Note 1).

Note 4: Working hours for Visa application register are Mon-Fri between 09:00-14:00.

Note 5: Once Visa application has been issued to immigration office, any change in flight details or itinerary will invalidate process and whole process must be restarted with a new application (see Note 1).

Note 6: Off signer cannot remain at Schengen Area Airports longer than 4 hours

Due to COVID 19 crisis taxi can transport per person per trip.

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

SRI LANKA

**NOTICE**
As from 20th December 2020 onwards the PPP (Public-Private-Partnership) will be operating an Offshore Transit Huh (OTH) to carry out crew changes of international seafarers

ARRIVAL AND REPATRIATION ROUTES AS FOLLOWS

For the convenience of international seafarers, there are 3 separate routes for them to arrive in Sri Lanka;
1. Direct to Mattala International Airport in chartered flights.
2. Arrive at Male International Airport in passenger flights for onward journey to Mattala International Airport on scheduled chartered flights arranged by the PPP.
3. Arrive at Dubai International Airport for onward journey to Mattala International Airport on scheduled chartered flights arranged by the PPP, or proceed independently to Male International Airport for onward journey to Mattala International Airport on scheduled chartered flights arranged by the PPP.

The reverse process as convenient is available for repatriation.

SCHEDULE OF CHARTERED FLIGHTS ARRANGED BY PPP

Between Male International Airport and Mattala International Airport
Mattala-Male-Mattala > Every Monday and Thursday, if minimum number of 35 passengers are available for each direction. If the numbers increase then can arrange upto 05 flights per week.

Between Dubai International Airport and Mattala International Airport
Mattala-Dubai-Mattala > Every Wednesday, if minimum number of 75 passengers are available for each direction. If the numbers increase then can arrange 03 flights per week.
Agents are required to indicate seafarer arrival 4 days in advance for the PPP to plan and advise in return the availability of direct chartered flight to and from Mattala International Airport.

Standard Operating Procedure for Operations of Offshore Crew Transit Hub released by the of Health Sri Lanka >
SOP Ops Offshore Crew Transit
SOP Crew Changes through an Offshore Transit Hub (off Sri Lanka)

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

TURKEY

• As per latest info from authorities that Turkish Airlines’ flights can be opened on 28.05.2020 for following cities:
  • Toronto, Almathy, Kabil, Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, Singapore, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo, Frankfurt, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Munich, Vienna,  Amsterdam, Brussels, Minsk, Tbilisi, Beirut, Kuwait, Tel-Aviv. 
• Curfew will continue till 19/2400 hrs lt for following 31 cities. There is no restriction for berthing/unberthing/loading/unloading operations at ports and strait passages during curfew period:
  • Adana, Ankara, Antalya, Aydın, Balıkesir, Bursa, Denizli, Diyarbakır, Erzurum, Eskişehir, Gaziantep, Hatay, İstanbul, İzmir, Kahramanmaraş, Kayseri, Kocaeli, Konya, Malatya, Manisa, Mardin, Mersin, Muğla, Ordu, Sakarya, Samsun, Şanlıurfa, Tekirdağ, Trabzon, Van, Zonguldak.
• All entry into and exit from Turkey’s 15 cities has been banned except for necessities such as food, medicine, cleaning supplies and certain logistics vehicles, and transit traffic with permission till 19.05.2020 at 24:00 hrs lt.  There is no restriction for berthing / unberthing / loading / unloading operations at ports and strait passages during this period:
  •  Ankara, Balıkesir, Bursa, Eskişehir, Gaziantep, İstanbul, İzmir, Kayseri, Kocaeli, Konya, Manisa, Sakarya, Samsun, Van, Zonguldak.
• There is currently no restriction for berthing / unberthing / loading / unloading operations (except for the ships bound to shipyards)  provided vessel is cleared of COVID-19 inspection  by sanitary officials who shall first inspect the vessel at anchorage area on arrival  to grant berthing permission if a vessel coming from infected country. 
• Foreign crew embarkation and disembarkation are not permitted. 
• New regulation in respect of compulsory disinfection related to COVID-19  has come into force as of 04.04.2020 wherefore all vessels calling at Turkish ports  must be disinfected by fully authorized companies appointed by port authority  as soon as they are at berth or at anchorage area . Disinfection charge may change from port to port. 
• According to the latest info from authorities regulating vessels passage through Istanbul Strait ( namely VTS ) , the intervals between each vessel entering to the strait shall be 20 minutes instead of  10 minutes as precautionary measures against COVID-19. Regulation, rules and instructions remain unchanged for the passages through Çanakkale Strait. But Pilotage service could be delayed time to time due to reduce of pilot number

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

U.A.E.

procedures related Vessel crew change operation arrangements at Fujairah port/anchorage.

CREW CHANGE AT FUJAIRAH PORT / ANCHORAGE:
Vessel need to register with PORT OF FUJAIRAH authority and anchor within port limit

1. Crew require 96Hrs Seaman visa for embarkation or Dis-embarkation 2. Valid PCR ‘Negative’ test report mandatory for embarkation or Dis-embarkation
2. Immigration has started accepting visa application from 04.08.2020 PM and we are receiving visas. Visa approval is subject to Immigration/CID final discretion
3. Attached Port of Fujairah NTM 284 for your ref.
4. Acknowledgement from each crew members for adhering precautionary measures in UAE.
5. Health declaration from Master (For off-signers)
6. FPMC COVID 19 Questionnaire (For off-signers)
7. Master & Agent declaration (For off-signers and on-signers).

PCR TEST @ SHORE:
1. We need to send service boat to vessel at anchorage with Port Clinic Rep to collect the COVID-19 SWAB TEST for those off-signing.
2. Dubai airport and Fujairah port immigration officials reserve the full right to conduct random PCR tests at their discretion upon crew’s arrival at the Dubai airport/Fujairah sea port. In case if the crew need to undergo the test at airport even the crew holds valid negative result, crew need to wait in hotel until the result release. Normally this will take 2-3 working days.
3. On-signers can stay in hotel while waiting for PCR test result or vessel arrival.
4. Off-signer must go straight to the airport once cleared from port immigration.

ANCHORAGE
Vessels calling at Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area regardless their nature of call will be allowed to stay a maximum of 10 days only (calculated as per calendar days).
Anchorage charges if the vessel stays more than 10 days at FOAA upon request.
We will try our best to complete crew change in 3 days on below circumstances and subject to all approval :

Arrange on-signer at least days TWO DAYS prior of vessel arrival, we will accommodate him/her in hotel in Dubai. On signers can show their valid covid test report done at hometown at dubai airport, apart from the 30 countries in attached travel protocol who require to be retested.

1. We will send 1st Boat upon vessel arrival with On-signers and Port Clinic Rep to collect COVID-19 SWAB TEST of the Off-signers.
2. We have to wait for PCR test report for off-signer which we expect within 24 to 48 hrs as per our on-going experience
3. After getting his/her negative covid test result We will send 2nd Boat to bring off-signer for immigration formalities, and drop him to the airport once all formalities are completed.
4. Vessel is allowed to sail after immigration formalities of Sign-off crew is completed which takes usually 2-3Hrs (including boat transportation) after des-embarkation.

Also note crew change will be possible only with Normal passport and crew change will not be possible for the persons who are holding Alien passport, Temporary Passport, Travel Document.

All nationalities crew change will be carried out via 96 hrs Seaman Visas only. Crew change will not be permitted using ‘’On arrival Visas ‘’ with effect from June – 2018.

Regarding 96hrs Seaman Visa – Please note following regulations for visa processing for crew change:

1. Please note for crew sign on / sign off 96 hrs visa issued (single entry visa)
2. Above is valid for 30 days from the date of issue and 4 days from the date of arrival (counted on the basis of calendar days).
3. Please note following documents required to apply for visa
   a) Color copy of passport (minimum validity 180 days required to apply for visa).
   b) Color copy of sea man book required.
   c) Color photograph in white background.
   d) Visa application form (Attached).
4. Please note require 1-2 working days for visa to be approved from immigration for on / off signers.
5. Please note Sri Lankan and Indonesian crew change – medical report is must require for visa processing.

The attached Master Declaration is required from Captain duly sign and stamped without date (separate for each s/on or off crew, no hand written) required to obtain crew change permission from Port of Fujairah.
We will not be held liable for any delays, costs, COVID-19 PCR positive results or any other, including claims for such, before, during or after the arrival, departure, handling or other of any of your crew assisted under our agency.
Confirm safe receipt and please feel free to contact us for any additional information or clarification required & would be pleased to assist.

Official Document Release:
– UAE Maritime Activities Return to Work Safely Protocol
– FTA Circular No. (12) 2020 – UAE Maritime Protocol

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

UNITED STATES

For New Orleans, Houston and Freeport:

• Crew change can be performed subject to USCBP (United state custom and border protection), approval. He will embark and will inspect and then he will confirm if it can be performed.
• Off signers are permitted to disembark; however, confirmed flight arrangements direct to foreign would be required, written letter with reason for disembarking also will be needed and personal details in order to approach USCBP, departure flight must be before vessel’s ETD.
• For joiners please refer to –CLP Bulletin– which was extended to include the UK and Ireland on 15-March.  Basis this guidance, ONLY those holding C-1/D US Visa as crewman are permitted travel

Full U.S. Coast Guard statement: Marine Safety Information Bulletin

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539

UNITED KINGDOM

With effect from 8th June 2020 the UK will impose a mandatory 14 day self quarantine for any travelers arriving into the UK.  This rule applies to all incoming travelers including British citizens.   There is however, a long list of exemptions to this rule.

• Ships crews and Masters, overcarried pilots, ship inspectors and surveyors will be granted an exemption from the mandatory 14 day quarantine.
• ALL incoming travelers including crew etc above will still need to complete a health declaration on arrival into the UK and also provide some monitoring data.
• Crew will be required to complete a form that will include the reason they are traveling (ships crew joining a ship in the UK), they will also need to provide a contact number (their mobile or the ships number) and lastly the address where they will be staying (the full address of the port/terminal where they are joining the ship).
• Declaration Form: https://www.gov.uk/provide-journey-contact-details-before-travel-uk:
  • The form is an online document via the gov.uk web portal and this has to be completed by the traveler BEFORE they arrive in the UK.
  • ALL travelers to the UK MUST complete this form before they travel – you can NOT submit this form until 48 hours prior to your arrival in the UK.
  • Unfortunately it is a little complicated with multiple steps requiring information to be completed.
  • It can NOT be downloaded and manually completed – each traveler MUST complete it (following every step) and submitting it to the gov.uk portal by clicking submit once it is complete.
  • The form is in English – any crew member struggling with English will need assistance from someone to complete it.
  • It does appear to allow a 3rd party to complete the form – it will ask why you are completing it on their behalf (clearly aimed at people with children) however this could be completed by a relative or colleague if the crew member has poor understanding of English or does not have access to technology.
  • On arrival at the UK border you will be required to present this completed and approved form either printed or on a mobile device to the Immigration Officer at the border control.

• Crew will also need a letter from the ship owner / manager confirming their status as seafarers joining a ship in the UK and confirmation that they are classified as a ‘key worker’.  This letter should be carried by them in case they are stopped by the authorities whilst in transit from the airport to the ship.  If they need hotel accommodation we would need a copy of this letter ‘in advance’ of their arrival so we can make the appropriate room booking – hotels in the UK are closed to the general public so we need this supporting letter to secure the room booking.
• ALL incoming crew are still required to have the appropriate seamans book and visa where required upon arrival into the UK.
• We would also suggest that any offsigning crew also carry the letter confirming their status should they be stopped on their journey to the airport.  Likewise the letter would be needed for any hotel stay if required.

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With effect from Today, if a vessel has called to Denmark within the last 14 days, crew will be unable to OFF sign / repatriate whilst in the UK.

Full Details:
The ship can arrive into UK ports if that ship has come from Denmark within the last 14 days.

The following regulations are with effect from Nov 11th.

With regard to crew, all EEA and non-EEA nationals who are not resident in the UK and who have been in Denmark in the last 14 days will be refused leave to enter.

• Exceptions to this are as follows;
• British Citizens (including those with dual nationality)
• Irish Citizens (including those with dual nationality)
• EEA nationals who are normally resident in the UK. For these purposes those with residence rights are defined as:
  • Those with a right of permanent residence under the EEA Regulations.
  • Holders of EU Settlement Scheme (“EUSS”) leave.
  • Those who hold an existing qualification under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement
• EEA children (unless in the case of a child where the decision is in their best interests).
• Third Country nationals who are resident in the UK. For these purposes those with residence are defined as:
  • Holders of ILR
  • Holders of existing leave to enter or remain or an entry clearance that grants such leave e.g. students, workers, etc (excluding visit visas).
  • Family members of EEA nationals with rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.
• Crew of unaccompanied freight, where crew will be expected to stay on the vessel or plane.

Arrivals granted leave to enter from Denmark will be required to self-isolate for 14 days and therefore with regard to crew we would expect them to remain on the vessel and not disembark.
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UK Government website.

List of people exempt from the mandatory quarantine (including ships crews).

For more information contact: Anc-Ops@waypointports.com / +357 9765 6164 or +357 9972 3130 or +357 9765 5130

URUGUAY

Crew changes are now allowed with a more flexible methodology. A new communication from the Government will be release soon.

For more information contact: tah@waypointports.com / +507 6397-2539