Migration Amendment (New Maritime Crew Visas) 2020

# Migration Amendment (New Maritime Crew Visas) 2020 ## What it does This bill creates two new visa categories for foreign sailors working on ships in Australian waters. One visa is for international crew members on ships passing through Australia on their way elsewhere, and another is for crew on ships doing coastal trading within Australia. Both visas will have security checks similar to those used for maritime security identification card holders. ## Why it matters Australia's shipping industry relies on foreign crew members, and these new visas give the government a clearer legal framework to manage who can work on these vessels. It also ensures security screening keeps pace with international standards for maritime workers. ## Key details - **Two visa types**: International Seafarers Transit Visas (for ships in transit) and International Seafarers Work Visas (for coastal shipping) - **Security requirements**: Applicants for the work visa must pass security assessments and criminal history checks aligned with existing maritime security rules - **Starts immediately**: The law takes effect the day after it receives Royal Assent (the Governor-General's formal approval)

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament