Australia•OceaniaMaritime Crew visa (subclass 988)
At a Glance
Processing Time
Varies
Application Fee
Free
Stay Duration
Variable
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Not Specified
PR Pathway
No
This visa does not offer a direct route to permanent residency.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Temporary visa for foreign crew members on eligible maritime vessels and ships. Also available for partner or dependent children. No application fee.
The Maritime Crew visa (subclass 988) allows foreign crew members to work on eligible maritime vessels in Australian waters. This visa is specifically designed for seafarers on international voyages and is administered with expedited processing.
Check Your Eligibility
Take our quick assessment to see how well you match this visa and get personalized tips
Requirements
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
Current valid passport
Maritime crew visa form
Form 1273 completed
Vessel details
Information about ship and voyage
Track your documents or upload them for AI-powered review
Advantages
- No application fee
- Fast processing
- Designed specifically for maritime workers
- Online application available
Considerations
- Limited to maritime industry
- Tied to vessel operations
- Temporary only
Application Process
Vessel operator contacts immigration
Operator provides crew details to maritime authorities
Complete visa form
Crew completes maritime crew visa application (Form 1273)
Submit application
Lodge application via online form or to Maritime Global Processing Centre
Receive determination
Visa decision provided quickly
Board vessel in Australia
Crew member enters Australia via sea
Application Forms
Application for Maritime Crew (Temporary) visa
Form ID: Form 1273
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa
