Working on a superyacht can be an exciting and rewarding career choice, providing opportunities to travel, meet new people, and enjoy a unique lifestyle. However, one of the key requirements for working on a superyacht is having the appropriate visa. There are many types of visas you can get when working on a superyacht, and the ones you’ll need will generally depend on where you will be going.
Visas to work on Yachts
Generally to work on Yachts there are only 2 things to keep in mind.
- What you need to work on Yacht in Caribbean or United States (B1/B2 Visa)
- What you need to work on a Yacht in Europe and the Mediterranean (Schengen Rules)
Yacht Crew Visa to work in the Meditereanean
First of all there is no “Visa for Yacht Crew”. To work on board, the yacht agent /management company will stamp you on board and you will be part of the crew. The only thing you need to consider is if you are allowed to be/travel in the Europe zone. You do not need a Visa if:
1. You have a EU-passport
2. You have a Passport with a Schengen exemption 90 days in 180 days. Passports include United States, UK, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil and many other countries on the Schengen List.
The way it works is. You enter Europe Schengen with your passport. Once employed we stamp you on board and your Schengen days stop counting. The day you disembark or finish your contract you will be stamped back out from the Yacht in to Europe and you are officially in Europe again.
Yacht Crew Visa to work in United States
A Yacht Crew Visa, also known as a B1/B2 visa, is required for non-U.S. citizens who wish to work on a superyacht that will be traveling to or within the United States. Canada Passport and US Passport holders do not need a B1/B2.
Yacht Crew Visa to work in Caribbean
A Yacht Crew Visa, also known as a B1/B2 visa, is required for non-U.S. citizens who wish to work on a Superyacht that will be traveling to or within the United States and Caribbean (Not legally, but required sometimes by the Yacht). Canada Passport and US Passport holders do not need a B1/B2.
Below is other types of visas for working on board.
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Seafarers Visa (C1/D)
A Seafarers Visa, also known as a C1/D visa, is the most common visa required for working on superyachts. This visa is designed specifically for crew members working on board commercial vessels, including superyachts, and allows the holder to enter multiple countries for the purpose of joining or departing from the vessel. The C1/D visa is issued by the United States but is recognized by many other countries worldwide. To obtain this visa, you will need to have a valid job offer from a yacht and provide proof of your qualifications and experience.
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Schengen Visa
A Schengen Visa is required for crew members working on superyachts that will be traveling within the Schengen Area, which consists of 26 European countries. This visa allows the holder to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. To apply for a Schengen Visa, you will need to provide proof of your employment, a letter from the yacht’s captain or management company, and proof of adequate financial means to support yourself during your stay.
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Yacht Crew Visa (B1/B2)
A Yacht Crew Visa, also known as a B1/B2 visa, is required for non-U.S. citizens who wish to work on a superyacht that will be traveling to or within the United States. This visa allows the holder to enter the U.S. for business or pleasure and is typically valid for up to 10 years. To obtain a B1/B2 visa, you will need to provide proof of your employment on a superyacht, a letter from the yacht’s captain or management company, and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the U.S.
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Australian Maritime Crew Visa (Subclass 988)
Finally, the Australian Maritime Crew Visa (subclass 988) is required for crew members working on superyachts that will be traveling to or within Australian waters. This visa allows the holder to enter Australia for the purpose of joining or departing from a vessel and is usually valid for up to three years. To apply for this visa, you will need to provide proof of your employment on a superyacht, a letter from the yacht’s captain or management company, and proof of enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
Conclusion
Obtaining the appropriate visas is a crucial step in preparing for a career on a superyacht. It is essential to research the specific visa requirements for the countries you will be visiting, gather all necessary documents, and submit your applications in a timely manner. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have the proper documentation to work legally on a superyacht and enjoy a successful career in the maritime industry.
Yachtie Careers offers all-in-one yacht training, helping individuals gain the skills and documents they need to work legally and happily across the seas. If you are looking to get your hands on a career in yachting, reach out to us today!
