Following representations by several industry associations, including Federagenti, the trade union association, Italy’s government has moved to accommodate non-EU seafarers affected by a new protocol in passport stamping brought in last year.

As we reported previously, some crew were experiencing difficulties having passports stamped (out) when joining yachts stationed in Italy, causing their available days to count down. While local agents reported some flexibility in a number of locations, an official workaround was brought into force on 22nd May.

The new rule is designed to facilitate refugees fleeing Ukraine, to enable them to work in Italy, but also addresses the issue of the 90-day time limit for non-EU seafarers arriving into the country and stepping on board.

While yacht agents would normally find amenable officials willing to stamp passports regardless of their next destination, the new legislation means that crew can now obtain an official one-year visa to cover time spent stationary in longer-term refit or maintenance in the country’s yards.

As usual, visas will be issued by the local Italian embassy prior to departure for Italy. For further details, please contact us and we can connect you with our partners in Italy.

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