Subclass 988 · Ship crew
Maritime Crew Visa (Subclass 988)
For foreign crew on eligible ships arriving in Australia by sea on an international voyage, and their partners and dependent children. Free.
About the Maritime Crew Visa (Subclass 988)
The Maritime Crew visa (MCV) allows foreign crew on an eligible ship to enter Australia by sea on an international voyage. It is also for the partner or dependent child of a crew member.
You can stay in Australia for as long as you are a crew member of an eligible ship in Australia, and you can sign off to join another eligible ship.
With this visa you can
- Arrive and depart Australia by sea as crew of an eligible ship
- Stay while you are signed on as crew of an eligible ship in Australia
- Sign off your ship to join another eligible ship
You must
- Be outside Australia when you apply
- Be an articled crew member of an eligible ship on an international voyage
Based on Department of Home Affairs information (October 2026). Costs shown are the starting visa application charge for the main applicant. Always confirm current details on the Department of Home Affairs website or ask our team. This page is general information, not migration advice.
Maritime Crew Visa (Subclass 988): Full Details
Everything about this visa, from eligibility to what happens after grant.
About this visa
Key facts from Home Affairs, in plain English.
Free.
As long as you are a crew member of an eligible ship that is in Australia.
Eligibility
What you need.
You must be outside Australia when you apply.
You must be an articled crew member on an eligible ship taking an international voyage, or the partner or dependent child of one.
Repay any government debts. Previous refusals or cancellations are considered.
Step by step
How it works.
Get expert advice first
Book a consultation with Outlook Immigration. Our registered migration agent will assess your eligibility, confirm this is the right visa for you and explain your options before you apply. Book a consultation.
Gather your documents
Prepare identity documents and evidence for your circumstances.
Apply
Lodge your application, usually online in ImmiAccount.
After you apply
Respond to any requests and keep your details up to date. Home Affairs may also ask for health examinations, police certificates or biometrics (fingerprints and a facial image).
When you have this visa
What happens next.
Remain a crew member of an eligible ship while in Australia, or join another eligible ship.
If you sign off your ship and cannot leave Australia within 5 days, a small extension can be given in limited circumstances.
Maritime Crew Visa (Subclass 988) FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we hear most.
Still have questions?
Book an appointment with a registered migration agent and get clear answers about your visa options.
Book Appointment- MARA Registered
- QEAC Certified
Foreign crew of eligible ships arriving in Australia by sea on an international voyage.
Yes, partners and dependent children of crew members can apply.
Yes.
Need Help With Your Visa?
Book a consultation with a MARA registered migration agent.
