Visa Status Is Key

These policy changes apply exclusively to crew members who do not possess a valid U.S. visa. CBP has emphasized that they will continue tightening restrictions on granting paroles both for medical reasons and repatriation for non-visaed seafarers.

CBP has confirmed that all parole requests will now undergo a more rigorous review process, including:

• Thorough examination of all medical communications between the ship and shore-based doctors
• Review of the timing and urgency of the illness
• Assessment of seafarers' contracts and voyage details

While emergency, life-saving care will not be impacted and must still be provided regardless of visa status, routine medical and repatriation paroles will be held to stricter standards.

Updated Repatriation Policy

CBP has clarified that terms such as “unfit for duty” or “fit for travel” will no longer automatically qualify a crew member for repatriation. Moving forward, CBP will begin enforcing a policy that requires non-visaed seafarers to depart the U.S. on the same vessel that brought them, unless clear extenuating circumstances exist (e.g., hospitalization or follow-up care at home supported by documentation).

As outlined by the CBP:

"Parole requests for medical and/or repatriation reasons remain under consideration on a case-by-case basis, based on the merit and variables of the request. Crew members who are not in possession of a valid U.S. visa face challenges with entry and/or transit due to the limited vetting information and travel history in CBP systems. As a result, it is always preferred that crew members have the proper visa and travel documents."

To support your crew and improve the chances of parole approval when needed, we recommend the following:

Maintain Detailed Medical Records

Strong, consistent documentation supports the validity of parole requests. Ensure that all communications are well documented – from the ship’s medical officer, Telemed services, and external physicians. Port Medical Management can provide documentation for any cases we manage from any U.S. port to port.

Increase Use of Telemedicine

Proactive consultation with medical professionals while still at sea can help establish the clinical basis for parole. Port Medical Management can coordinate remote evaluations with our Medical Director prior to the vessel’s arrival, and/or once alongside.

Where appropriate, treating the crew member onboard may eliminate the need for a medical parole and reduce security escort costs. If off-ship treatment is still required, the onboard assessment will help substantiate the request. Port Medical Management coordinates these assessments, ensuring timely care and compliance with port regulations.

In summary, while CBP’s policies regarding medical and repatriation paroles are becoming more stringent, Port Medical Management remains committed to navigating these changes alongside our partners and ensuring seafarers continue to receive the care they need.

We also encourage all parties to consult the most recent Executive Orders and visit CBP.gov for official updates and policy references.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.