The UK P&I Club explains what the recent ban to USA means for crew following President Trump’s Executive Order of January 27, 2017 on immigration. This decision indefinitely barred Syrian refugees from entering the United States, suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days and blocked citizens of seven countries.
According to this travel ban:
- For the next 90 days crewmembers from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Iran and Libya, whether or not they hold visas, will be denied entry to the U.S.
- It also bars the entry of refugees from Syria indefinitely.
- The order stops admission of all refugees to the United States for the next four months.
- The order also calls for a review into suspending the Visa Interview Waiver Program, which allows travellers from 38 countries — including close allies — to renew travel authorizations without an in-person interview.
- The order should not affect naturalized U.S. Citizens from the seven named countries;
- After some initial confusion, it appears holders of U.S. Green Cards will be allowed into the US;
Recommendations
At present, the implementation of the Executive Order is not entirely clear should Members be affected by the order please contact the Club. Given the situation the Club recommends:
- For the next 90 days, crewmembers from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Iran and Libya will be denied entry into the US. Whether or not they hold U.S. visas;
- Nationals from the seven named countries with permanent resident (green card) status will be permitted entry, “….absent the receipt of significant derogatory information indicating a serious threat to public safety and welfare…”
- Do not arrange crew changes in the United States for those citizens of the identified countries including flights with transit through the U.S.
- The Departments of State and Homeland Security (CBP) may determine on a case by case basis and when in the national interest, to issue visas or other immigration benefits to nationals of countries for which visas and benefits are otherwise blocked. The Club anticipates that in the event of a true medical emergency the CBP may permit the injured or ill crewmember entry to the U.S. under section 3(g) of the Executive Order.
- For those nationals affected by the Visa Interview Waiver Program, the Club recommends contacting the local U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance as an interview now appears to be required.
Source: The UK P&I Club
