Crew Change Guidelines in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has become a hub for crew changes due to its cost-effective solutions, global flight connections, and supportive government bodies1. This page provides comprehensive information on Bangladesh crew change regulations, guidelines, and support services.

Maritime Authority Bangladesh Guidelines-

The Maritime Authority of Bangladesh has implemented guidelines to ensure smooth and efficient crew changes. These guidelines cover various aspects, including:

Visa Requirements: Travel to Bangladesh is generally allowed with restrictions. Visa requirements vary based on nationality. Crew members can often obtain visas on arrival with proper documentation.
COVID-19 Protocols: While restrictions related to COVID-19 have been eased, staying updated on any regulation changes is essential. Some agents recommend that on-signers have a PCR test report or vaccination certificate. Off-signers may need to fly within 72 hours of a negative COVID-19 test. It is important to note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bangladesh authorities extended the validity of seafarer certificates to ensure continued operations.
Crew Change Locations: Chittagong and Mongla are the primary ports for crew changes due to their excellent communication and facilities. Dhaka, the capital city, is a central transportation hub with international flight connections.
Efficient Operations: Crew change operations typically take one day at the anchorage or dock.
Communication: Effective communication between ships and shore-based organizations is crucial to ensure smooth crew changes and address COVID-19-related requirements before a port call.

Key Insight: The Bangladesh authorities have taken a proactive approach to facilitate crew changes, as evidenced by supportive government bodies, efficient operations, and flexible COVID-19 protocols.

Seafarer Quarantine Rules in Bangladesh-

Quarantine rules for seafarers depend on their vaccination status and travel history. Fully vaccinated travelers may not need a pre-departure COVID-19 test. However, quarantine and testing may be required upon arrival.

Here are some specific quarantine protocols:

General Quarantine: A 14-day institutional quarantine at a government-nominated hotel may be required7 for those not fully vaccinated.
Yellow List Countries: Off-signers from “Yellow List” countries, regardless of vaccination status, are subject to a 14-day quarantine, with 10 days in a facility and the remainder under home quarantine. RT-PCR testing is conducted on the seventh day.
Red List Countries: Off-signers from “Red List” countries are generally not allowed to disembark. Exceptions may apply for Filipino seafarers returning on repatriation flights, subject to a 14-day quarantine.
Yellow Fever: All international travelers arriving from or transiting through yellow fever zones must possess a valid vaccination certificate9.

It’s crucial to check the latest travel advisories and regulations before traveling to Bangladesh.

Crew Change Delays in Bangladesh-

Crew change delays can occur due to various factors, including:

Travel Restrictions: Travel restrictions imposed by other countries, such as Singapore’s ban on crew changes for seafarers with recent travel history to Bangladesh, can cause delays12.
Vaccination Requirements: Crew change delays may arise due to vaccination requirements and the availability of vaccines for seafarers.
Nationality Restrictions: Some ports restrict crew changes for seafarers of specific nationalities. For example, in Mombasa (Kenya), crew changes are allowed for those who have completed their contracts, are medically unfit, have compassionate grounds, or whose sign-off doesn’t affect safe manning. Similar nationality-based restrictions exist in other ports as well.
Global Crew Change Trends: The Neptune Declaration Crew Change Indicator shows an increase in the number of seafarers onboard vessels beyond the expiry of their contracts, highlighting the scale of crew change challenges and potential delays.
Crew Change Protocols in Other Countries: Crew change procedures can also influence delays. For instance, Malaysia has specific requirements for sign-on and sign-off, including COVID-19 tests, health declarations, and self-surveillance.

Key Insight: Crew change processes are interconnected globally, and events or regulations in other countries can significantly impact crew changes in Bangladesh12.

Crew Repatriation Challenges in Bangladesh-

Repatriation of crew members can be challenging due to travel restrictions, limited flight availability, and quarantine requirements. However, Bangladesh has been actively involved in repatriation efforts, working with other countries to facilitate the return of seafarers18. The IMO’s Seafarer Crisis Action Team (SCAT) is also crucial in assisting seafarers facing repatriation issues.

Key Insight: International cooperation is essential to effectively addressing crew repatriation challenges, and Bangladesh has demonstrated its commitment to collaborating with other countries in these efforts18.

Crew Welfare in Bangladeshi Ports-

Crew welfare is a priority in Bangladeshi ports. Initiatives include:

Access to Healthcare: Seafarers can access medical facilities and healthcare services in Bangladeshi ports.
Communication Facilities: Reliable communication facilities allow seafarers to stay connected with their families and loved ones.
Accommodation: Safe and comfortable accommodation options are available for crew members in Bangladesh.
Recreational Activities: Efforts are made to provide recreational activities for seafarers to enhance their wellbeing in port.
Choosing a Crew Service Provider: When selecting a crew service provider in Bangladesh, consider factors such as reputation, experience, range of services offered, compliance with regulations, cost-effectiveness, and communication.

Key Insight: Bangladesh adopts a holistic approach to crew welfare, considering physical and mental well-being and providing various support services to ensure seafarers’ health and safety.

Crew Vaccination Programs in Bangladesh-

Bangladesh has implemented vaccination programs, including the COVID-19 vaccination program, focusing on vaccinating a significant portion of the population. The country has also launched an HPV vaccination campaign to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer.

Mental Health Support Services for Seafarers in Bangladesh-

While the importance of mental health for seafarers is recognized, specific information on mental health support services available to crew members in Bangladesh is limited. Seafarers may face various mental health challenges due to the demanding nature of their work, prolonged periods away from home, and potential isolation.

Potential Resources:

International Organizations: Organizations like the Sailors’ Society offer support services such as helplines, peer support groups, and online resources.
Specialized Companies: Companies like Mental Health Support Solutions provide tailored mental health services for seafarers, including counseling and crisis support.
Manning Agencies: Some manning agencies in Bangladesh may offer counseling services or referrals to mental health professionals.

Further research and initiatives are needed to enhance mental health support for seafarers in Bangladesh. Information and communication technology (ICT) can significantly improve access to mental health services and empower seafarers to take an active role in their well-being.

Conclusion:

Bangladesh offers a favorable environment for crew changes, characterized by efficient processes, supportive authorities, and a focus on crew welfare. The country has implemented comprehensive guidelines and proactive measures to facilitate crew changes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. While challenges such as crew change delays and repatriation issues may arise due to various factors, including global events and travel restrictions, Bangladesh remains committed to working with international partners and organizations to ensure seafarers’ safe and seamless movement. The country’s emphasis on crew welfare, including access to healthcare, communication facilities, accommodation, and mental health support, further strengthens its position as a preferred destination for crew changes in the maritime industry.

Essential Documents for Crew Sign-On/Off in Bangladesh

Document	Description
Passport	Valid passport of the crew member
Seaman Book	Seaman’s identification document
Seaman Record Book	Record of the seafarer’s service history
PCR Negative Report/Vaccination Certificate	It may be required depending on current regulations
Air Ticket	Confirmed air ticket for travel
Agency Letter	Letter from the crewing agency or ship owner
NOC from the Shipping Office	No Objection Certificate from the relevant shipping office
Government Fees	Applicable fees for immigration and other formalities
Health Declaration Form	Declaration of health status
Photo	Passport-sized photograph of the crew member