{"id":2253,"date":"2026-07-29T17:43:37","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T17:43:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/?p=2253"},"modified":"2026-07-29T17:56:22","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T17:56:22","slug":"dgma-circular-38-of-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/dgma-circular-38-of-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"DGMA Circular 38 of 2026: Revised Immigration Rules for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and Crew Change"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The movement of seafarers through Indian ports depends on efficient immigration procedures that ensure both operational continuity and regulatory compliance. To streamline these processes, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has introduced DGMA Circular 38 of 2026, bringing revised guidelines for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew change (sign-on\/sign-off). The updated provisions aim to simplify immigration formalities while strengthening coordination between shipping companies, port agents, and immigration authorities. Whether you are a seafarer, shipowner, crewing agency, or maritime stakeholder, understanding these changes is essential for avoiding delays and ensuring compliance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s go through this in detail!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Table of Content<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#what-is-dgma-circular-38-of-2026\">What is DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#key-highlights\">What are the Key Highlights of DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#who-must-comply\">Who Must Comply with DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#shore-leave-pass\">What is a Shore Leave Pass (SLP)?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#slp-categories\">What are the Different Categories of Shore Leave Pass under DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#new-slp-provisions\">What are the New Provisions regarding the Shore Leave Pass?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#crew-change-provisions\">What are the New Provisions regarding Crew Change?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#non-compliance\">What are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#impact-on-seafarers\">How these New Changes Affect Seafarers and Shipping &amp; Crew Operators?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bottom-line\">The Bottom Line!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faqs\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-dgma-circular-38-of-2026\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_01_42-AM-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"DGMA Circular 38 of 2026\" class=\"wp-image-2257 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_01_42-AM-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_01_42-AM-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_01_42-AM-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_01_42-AM.webp 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/dgma.gov.in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA)<\/a> has issued DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 to implement revised immigration provisions for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew change (sign-on\/sign-off) procedures at Indian ports. Issued pursuant to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mha.gov.in\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ministry of Home Affairs<\/a> Circular No. 663 dated 03 July 2026, the circular aims to establish a more streamlined, secure, and uniform immigration process for seafarers, shipping companies, port agents, and immigration authorities. It outlines updated procedures, documentation requirements, and the new provisions governing shore leave passes and the signing in and signing off of seafarers. The objective of this circular is to facilitate smoother crew movements, enhance regulatory compliance, strengthen border security, and improve the efficiency of immigration clearance for seafarers arriving at or departing from Indian ports.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"key-highlights\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the Key Highlights of DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Issuing Authority&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Date of Issue&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>15 July 2026&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Subject&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Revised immigration provisions relating to Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and Crew Change (Sign-on\/Sign-off) of seafarers&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Primary Focus&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Standardising immigration procedures for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew sign-on\/sign-off at Indian ports&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Legal Basis&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Issued pursuant to the Ministry of Home Affairs Circular No. 663 dated 03 July 2026.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Applicability&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Applicable to all Indian and foreign seafarers, shipping companies, vessel masters, port agents, and immigration authorities involved in crew movement at Indian ports.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Objective&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Streamlines immigration procedures, reduces delays in crew movement, and improves operational efficiency at ports.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"who-must-comply\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Must Comply with DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 mandates revised immigration rules for Shore Leave Passes (SLP) and crew changes at Indian ports. Compliance is compulsory for:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Shipping &amp; Crew Operators&nbsp;<\/td><td>All Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) holders, shipping companies, ship managers, Masters of vessels, and shipping agents.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Seafarers&nbsp;<\/td><td>Both Indian and foreign seafarers undergoing crew changes or applying for Shore Leave Passes at Indian ports.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NOTE:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Commissioner (<a href=\"https:\/\/boi.gov.in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bureau of Immigration<\/a>) and <a href=\"https:\/\/indianfrro.gov.in\/efrro\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Foreigners Regional Registration Officers (FRROs)<\/a> \/ Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs) at Indian seaports are tasked with facilitating and executing these amended provisions<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"shore-leave-pass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a Shore Leave Pass (SLP)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-12_52_18-AM-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Shore Leave Pass (SLP)\" class=\"wp-image-2258 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-12_52_18-AM-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-12_52_18-AM-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-12_52_18-AM-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-12_52_18-AM.webp 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Shore Leave Pass (SLP) is an immigration authorisation issued to eligible foreign seafarers, allowing them to temporarily disembark from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/import-of-indian-vessels-igm-bill-of-entry\/\">vessel<\/a> and remain within the designated port city or permitted area during the vessel&#8217;s stay at an Indian port. The pass is granted after verification by the immigration authorities and is subject to the conditions prescribed under the applicable immigration regulations. An SLP does not serve as a visa or permit unrestricted entry into India; it only authorises temporary shore access for a specified period and purpose. Seafarers must comply with the terms of the pass and return to their vessel before its expiry or departure.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"slp-categories\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the Different Categories of Shore Leave Pass under DGMA Circular 38 of 2026?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Director General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) Circular 38 of 2026 classifies Shore Leave Passes (SLPs) based on the purpose of the seafarer&#8217;s visit ashore and the duration of stay. Each category has specific eligibility conditions and validity to ensure compliance with India&#8217;s immigration regulations. Here is an overview of the different categories of SLP:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Category&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Eligibility&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Validity<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Indian crew on Indian\/Foreign Flag \u2013 Foreign-Run Vessels&nbsp;<\/td><td>Indian Crew<\/td><td>30 days or till vessel sails, whichever is earlier&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Foreign crew on Foreign Flag \u2013 Coastal Run Vessels&nbsp;<\/td><td>Foreign crew with OCI card or B-1\/E-1\/X-1 visa endorsed to join ship&nbsp;<\/td><td>Visa validity, 30 days, or till vessel sails, whichever is earlier&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Foreign crew on Indian\/Foreign Flag \u2013 Foreign Run Vessels&nbsp;<\/td><td>Foreign Crew<\/td><td>7 days or till vessel sails, whichever is earlier&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Emergency SLP&nbsp;<\/td><td>Emergency \/ medical evacuation cases with FRRO\/FRO consent&nbsp;<\/td><td>For the duration approved by the FRRO\/FRO&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Indian supernumeraries (Foreign Run)&nbsp;<\/td><td>Indian supernumeraries&nbsp;<\/td><td>30 days or till the vessel sails, whichever is earlier&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Foreign supernumeraries (valid visa)&nbsp;<\/td><td>Foreign supernumeraries with valid Indian visa&nbsp;<\/td><td>Visa validity, 30 days, or till the vessel sails, whichever is earlier&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"new-slp-provisions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the New Provisions regarding the Shore Leave Pass?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 revises the provisions relating to the issuance and use of Shore Leave Passes (SLPs) for seafarers. The key changes are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shore Leave Passes (SLPs) can only be used between 06:00 hrs and 23:45 hrs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For foreign seafarers, an SLP is valid for up to seven days, until the visa expires, or until the vessel departs, whichever occurs first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An SLP exceeding seven days may be granted only when there is a valid justification. In such cases, a fee equivalent to the Temporary Landing Permit (TLP) will be charged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indian crew serving on Indian or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/foreign-flag-vessel-age-limit-india-dgs\/\">foreign flag vessels<\/a> engaged in foreign voyages may be granted an SLP for up to 30 days or until the vessel sails, whichever is earlier.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign crew may receive an SLP for the validity of their visa, up to 30 days, or until the vessel sails, whichever is earlier. They must possess a valid OCI Card or B-1, E-1, or X-1 Visa endorsed for joining the vessel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign crew seeking shore access through non-Immigration Posts must obtain prior approval from the jurisdictional FRRO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign crew serving on Indian or foreign flag vessels engaged in foreign voyages are eligible for an SLP of up to seven days or until the vessel sails, whichever is earlier.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-Immigration Posts are not permitted to issue SLPs to foreign crew serving on foreign run vessels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In emergencies, including medical evacuation, an SLP may be issued to a seafarer outside port limits with the approval of the FRRO\/FRO. The shipping agent or port authority must immediately inform the immigration authorities and submit the required documents as soon as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In emergency cases, shore leave passes for Pakistan nationals shall be granted only under police escort.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indian supernumeraries on foreign-run vessels are eligible for SLPs under the same validity provisions applicable to Indian crew, i.e., up to 30 days or until the vessel sails, whichever is earlier.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign supernumeraries holding a valid Indian visa are eligible under the provisions applicable to foreign crew. Before accessing the shore through non-Immigration Posts, they must first obtain arrival clearance at an Immigration Post.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NOTE:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>passport with a valid Indian visa<\/strong> is sufficient for obtaining an SLP. A <strong>Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)<\/strong> is <strong>not mandatory<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"crew-change-provisions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the New Provisions regarding Crew Change?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 introduces the following revised provisions for crew change (sign-on\/sign-off) at Indian ports:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Crew change is permitted for vessels operating within port limits, including vessels at outer anchorage, port lighterage areas, and single buoy\/point mooring (SBM\/SPM) within port limits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crew change for vessels berthed within port limits is allowed for Indian and Foreign Flag vessels involving both Indian and foreign seafarers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A written request from the shipping agent or vessel master is mandatory before processing any crew change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The shipping agency must submit an undertaking ensuring the safe and secure repatriation of the crew.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sign-on\/sign-off outside port limits is generally prohibited.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies (including treatment under AYUSH\/Indian systems of medicine), crew change outside port limits may be permitted only with prior approval from the concerned FRRO\/FRO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For Pakistan nationals, sign-off in emergency situations is permitted only under police escort.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign Flag vessels converted to coastal run after arriving at an Indian port and operating in coastal trade for more than 30 days must follow the coastal vessel sign-on\/sign-off procedures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign crew on such coastal run vessels must undergo immigration clearance before crew change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A &#8220;Coastal Sign-On\/Sign-Off&#8221; stamp shall be placed on the General Declaration (GD) submitted by the Master and shipping agent instead of the crew member&#8217;s passport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foreign crew must possess a valid OCI Card or B-1, E-1, or X-1 Visa endorsed for joining the vessel to complete the crew change process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"non-compliance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_08_09-AM-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Non-compliance with DGMA Circular 38 of 2026\" class=\"wp-image-2259 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_08_09-AM-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_08_09-AM-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_08_09-AM-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-19-2026-01_08_09-AM.webp 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Non-compliance with DGMA Circular 38 of 2026\u2014which mandates revised immigration provisions for crew changes and shore leave passes (SLP) leads to severe penalties, including:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Vessel Detention:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imo.org\/en\/ourwork\/msas\/pages\/portstatecontrol.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Port State Control (PSC)<\/a> can immediately detain a ship if it operates without mandated immigration clearances and proper documentation for crew members.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Licence Revocation &amp; Blacklisting:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/rpsl\/\">Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL)<\/a> agencies face licence suspension or complete <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/dgma-shipping-order-on-blacklisted-vessels\/\">blacklisting<\/a> for improper updates, unauthorised sign-ons (e.g., joining via tourist visas instead of proper channels), or failure to secure required undertakings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Financial Penalties:<\/strong> Shipping companies, agents, and masters are liable for substantial monetary fines for breaching approved immigration, shore leave, and crew repatriation protocols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Immigration &amp; Legal Prosecution:<\/strong> Bypassing the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mea.gov.in\/protector-general-emigrants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Protector of Emigrants (POE)<\/a> processes can result in visa revocations, travel bans, and legal prosecution under maritime and immigration laws.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"impact-on-seafarers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do these New Changes Affect Seafarers and Shipping &amp; Crew Operators?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new rules and regulations under DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 affect seafarers and shipping and crew operators in several ways, such as:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Longer Immigration Planning:<\/strong> Shipping companies and crewing agencies must plan shore leave and crew changes well in advance, as approvals, documentation, and eligibility requirements have become more structured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Reduced Operational Flexibility:<\/strong> Seafarers can no longer expect unrestricted shore access or crew changes. Their movements are now governed by fixed validity periods, time restrictions, and designated immigration procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Greater Administrative Workload:<\/strong> Shipping operators and port agents will spend more time preparing documentation, obtaining approvals, and coordinating with immigration authorities to ensure compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Impact on Crew Rotation Schedules: <\/strong>Restrictions on sign-on and sign-off outside port limits may require operators to adjust crew rotation plans and schedule crew changes at eligible ports whenever possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Additional Planning for Foreign Crew: <\/strong>Foreign seafarers may need to arrange visas, OCI cards, and FRRO approvals before arriving at Indian ports, increasing pre-arrival planning requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Potential Delays Due to Non-Compliance:<\/strong> Missing documents, incorrect visa endorsements, or failure to obtain necessary approvals may result in delays in shore leave, crew changes, or vessel operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Changes to Emergency Response Procedures: <\/strong>In emergency situations, shipping operators must follow a formal approval process instead of making immediate crew movement decisions, which may affect response planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"bottom-line\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 introduces a revised immigration framework for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew change (sign-on\/sign-off) at Indian ports. By clearly defining eligibility criteria, validity periods, documentation requirements, and stakeholder responsibilities, the circular aims to standardise immigration procedures while strengthening regulatory oversight. Seafarers, shipping companies, vessel masters, and port agents must familiarise themselves with these revised provisions to ensure smooth crew movement and avoid operational disruptions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the new guidelines are now in effect, timely compliance and proper coordination with immigration authorities will be essential for maintaining efficient maritime operations and uninterrupted vessel schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1785346517843\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>1. Does DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 replace the Visa Manual, 2019?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No. The circular revises specific provisions of the <strong>Visa Manual, 2019,<\/strong> relating to Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew change procedures; the remaining provisions continue to apply.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1785346547784\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>2. Can a Shore Leave Pass (SLP) be used to travel anywhere in India?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No. An SLP permits temporary shore access only under prescribed conditions and does not authorise unrestricted travel within India.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1785346571296\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>3. Can immigration authorities refuse to issue a shore leave pass?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. Immigration authorities may refuse an SLP if the prescribed eligibility conditions, documentation, or security requirements are not satisfied.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1785346592374\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>4. What happens if a seafarer overstays the validity of a shore leave pass?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Overstaying an SLP may constitute a violation of immigration regulations and could result in legal or administrative action by the authorities.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1785346609334\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>5. Does DGMA Circular 38 of 2026 apply to cruise ship crew members?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. The circular applies to eligible seafarers on vessels arriving at Indian ports, subject to the applicable immigration and visa requirements.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The movement of seafarers through Indian ports depends on efficient immigration procedures that ensure both operational continuity and regulatory compliance. To streamline these processes, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has introduced DGMA Circular 38 of 2026, bringing revised guidelines for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and crew change (sign-on\/sign-off). The updated provisions aim to &#8230; <a title=\"DGMA Circular 38 of 2026: Revised Immigration Rules for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and Crew Change\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/dgma-circular-38-of-2026\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about DGMA Circular 38 of 2026: Revised Immigration Rules for Shore Leave Pass (SLP) and Crew Change\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":2260,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[169,180,62,4],"class_list":["post-2253","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-marine","tag-dgma","tag-dgma-circular","tag-seafarers","tag-shipping"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2253","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2253"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2253\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2270,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2253\/revisions\/2270"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2260"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2253"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2253"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2253"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}