Seafarers’ rights to Shore Leave have been strengthened through amendments, which entered into force globally on 1-January-2018, under the revised treaty, which aims to achieve the smooth transit in ports of ships, cargo and passengers. The amendments to the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention) also bring in a new requirement for national governments to introduce electronic information exchange including electronic data interchange (EDI) to transmit information related to maritime transport. This should be in place by 8-April-2019, with provision for a transitional period of at least 12 months during which paper and electronic documents would also be allowed.

The amendment to the international standard on Shore Leave adds a new provision, on top of the requirement to allow crew ashore while the ship on which they arrive is in port. This new provision says there should be no discrimination on grounds of nationality, race, color, sex, religion, political opinion, or social origin. Shore Leave should be granted, irrespective of the flag State of the ship. If any request is turned down, the relevant public authorities must provide an explanation to the crewmember and the master, which the seafarer or master can request to be provided in writing.