Last updated 2026-06-01
Maritime crew visa 988 in Australia for British citizens
Visa overview
Allows foreign crew on a maritime crew visa eligible ship to enter Australia by sea when on an international voyage. It is also for the partner or dependent child of a foreign crew member of an eligible ship, when on the same ship.
Visa validity period
Individually
Consular fee
$190 (~$134)
Time frames and cost
The primary characteristics that define the conditions for obtaining and using a visa. These conditions may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the decision of the immigration authorities of the country.
Individually
Visa validity period
The period during which the visa remains valid and can be used for entry into the country. The validity period or expiration date is indicated directly on the visa itself.
<p>The visa is valid for the period specified in the visa grant letter, usually corresponding to the time as an international representative with support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)..</p>
Individually
Duration of stay
The maximum duration for which one is permitted to stay in the country continuously from the date of entry.
<p>It is permitted to remain in Australia while performing duties as a crew member of a ship eligible for a Maritime Crew Visa (MCV) and located in Australia.</p>
Not applicable
Extension of stay
The extension of the maximum duration of stay in the country initially permitted by the visa, subject to approval by the immigration authorities. This is typically processed within the country without the need for departure.
<p>An extension is impossible. Aliens must apply for another visa.</p>
multiple-entry
The ability to enter and exit the country an unlimited number of times, unless otherwise specified, within the visa's validity period.
Number of entries
A parameter specifying the number of times the visa holder can enter the country during its validity period. Visas can be single-entry, multiple-entry, or with a specified number of entries.
<p>Multiple entries are permitted during the visa validity period.</p>
1 month
Processing time
The period during which the immigration authorities review the application and make a decision regarding the issuance of the visa. Only business days are counted, excluding weekends and public holidays.
<p>Processing time ranges from several days to several weeks, but usually does not exceed 30 days.</p>
$190 (~$134)
Consular fee
A fee levied for the processing and evaluation of an application. This charge is non-refundable under any circumstances. In certain instances, the payment of supplementary fees may be required.
<p>From 190 Australian dollars (AUD). A lower visa cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. </p>
Documents
A list of documents required for visa application. The exact list depends on the chosen visa type, the purpose of the visit, and the individual conditions of the applicant.
Mandatory
The essential minimum documents required for a visa application, such as a passport or visa application form. These are necessary regardless of the location, method, or conditions of the application.
Passport
Must be valid at least 3 months from planned arrival date in Australia.
Application form
Completed the online application form through the Department of Home Affairs website.
Photograph
4 recent colour photos (45mm x 35mm) of the child and any dependents, full-face, plain light background, less than 6 months old.
Supporting
Documents that specify, substantiate, and confirm the purpose of the visit, as well as provide necessary information about the applicant and their future activities in the country.
Employment documents
Documentary proof that the applicant is employed on, or will be employed on, a non-military ship that will be in Australia a statement from the vessel’s local shipping/handling agent. The statement must state: applicant's, name the name of the company, the name of the ship, the port and date applicant expects to join the ship.
Education/Qualification documents
Evidence of applicant's highest recognised qualification that relates to applicant's employment as a crew member. This should be a copy of an educational certificate such as a Degree or Diploma.
Additional
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
Medical certificate
Health certificates confirming that they have no easily transmitted diseases such as tuberculosis or other serious diseases. It is recommended to check the exact requirements directly with the place where the application is submitted.
Proof of financial means
Recent bank statement for the last three months or any other proof of income. This document must demonstrate sufficient funds to support oneself for the entire stay and for return expenses (bank statement, pay stubs, or proof of employment).
Health insurance
To cover any unforeseen medical treatment in Australia.
Criminal record certificate
Confirming no criminal record in the applicant’s home or residence country.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Requirements
The minimum criteria that each visa applicant must meet. If these criteria are not met, justifications and convincing evidence of intent to visit the country must be provided.
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Visa Information
The characteristics of a visa according to its classification by types, categories, and visit purposes. These are selected by the applicant during the application process, typically indicated on the visa application form and reflected in corresponding annotations on the visa itself.
English international
Type of visa
The primary purpose of the visa and the conditions under which it is issued. This typically includes several general categories of visas and/or visit purposes based on the type of activity or reasons for entering the country.
Refugee and humanitarian visas
Category
The classification within a visa type that specifies more specific conditions, characteristics of obtaining, and using the visa. Categories may vary in terms of duration, stay conditions, and the rights granted by the visa.
Other visa
Sources
Links to official resources upon which the information presented on the website is based. Information portals of government bodies or diplomatic representations of the country responsible for visa issuance and immigration policy in general.
Do you have any questions?
Is anything unclear? Don't worry! Do not hesitate to contact us - we will be happy to provide all the necessary explanations.
or reach out to us via email
terranusuppor@outlook.com