Whether you are planning to join a vessel, renew your visa, or recruit international crew, understanding these changes is essential to avoid unexpected delays or complications.
U.S. immigration attorney Scott Hershenson has highlighted several significant policy changes that could affect yacht crew, captains, and employers.
Visa bans: A proposed visa ban is expected to impact around 75 countries, primarily in the Middle East and Africa. The restrictions would affect B1, B2, F1, and J1 visas, making it difficult for affected nationals to obtain or renew visas and creating potential hiring challenges for the yachting industry.
Visa bond pilot program: Beginning April 2, 2026, visa applicants from 50 designated countries may be required to pay a refundable bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The bond will only be returned if the traveler departs the United States through an approved commercial airport or CBP preclearance location. Failure to follow the required departure procedures could result in the bond being forfeited, adding financial and logistical challenges for both crew and employers.
Green card processing freeze: A new measure is expected to suspend green card processing at U.S. consulates abroad for nationals of the same 75 countries, regardless of the immigration pathway used to apply.
Stricter public charge and enforcement policies: Visa applicants will face increased scrutiny to demonstrate they will not become a public charge. At the same time, a zero-tolerance enforcement approach means visas may be revoked without a criminal conviction, and applicants must disclose all arrests or criminal records, even if they have been sealed or expunged.
Social media screening: Immigration authorities are placing greater emphasis on applicants’ online presence. Public social media profiles are recommended, as private accounts or content related to drugs or politically sensitive issues may influence visa decisions. While travelers can refuse requests to inspect their phones, doing so may lead to denial of entry.
Entry and exit compliance: CBP is increasing oversight of crew entering and leaving the United States. Crew are generally expected to arrive and depart with their vessel, and Seafarers’ Employment Agreements (SEAs) should be signed outside the U.S. Hershenson also emphasized that admission into the United States is always at the discretion of the CBP officer, even for travelers holding a valid visa, making professionalism, honesty, and cooperation during inspections essential.
*Please note: This summary is based on an article by Lauren Beck, published in The Triton, featuring insights from U.S. immigration attorney Scott Hershenson. Read the original article here: US Immigration Changes: What Yacht Crew Need to Know
