CRM02 - Aircrew
This is internal guidance for use by entry clearance staff on the handling of applications made outside the United Kingdom (UK) from aircrew. It is a live document under constant review and is for information only. More information on aircrew members can be found on the UK Border Agency website: Immigration directorate instructions: Chapter 16 - Seamen and aircrew.
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CRM2.1 Legislation and aircrew
Section 33(1) of the Immigration Act 1971 defines crew members as all persons actually employed in the working or service of an aircraft, including the captain. Staff such as security guards are not crew members within this definition.
CRM2.2 Identity documents and aircrew
Aircrew must hold either a valid passport, a pilot's licence or a crew member certificate. All documents must contain a description of the holder, including nationality and photograph.
EEA nationals coming to the UK on short term visits must produce either a National Identity Card or a passport and are not subject to restrictions.
CRM2.3 Aircrew arriving as a crew member of an aircraft
Under Section 8(1) of the Immigration Act 1971 a person who arrives as a crew member of an aircraft does not need leave if he is under engagement to leave within 7 days on that or another aircraft (or until the aircraft departs) unless:
- there is a deportation order in force against him;
- he has at any time been refused leave to enter and has not since been given leave to enter or remain; or
- an Immigration Officer requires him to submit to examination under Paragraph 13(1) to Schedule 2 of the 1971 Act.
CRM2.4 When do aircrew need entry clearance?
Airline crew members do not need prior entry clearance if they:
- are operating crew (including stewards and stewardesses*);
- are holding their licences or valid crew members' certificates or passports; and
- are departing, as a member of the crew, on the same aircraft from the airport at which they arrived or within seven days on another aircraft (crew intending to stay longer than seven days must have entry clearance. Those who wish to extend their stay after entry must apply in the UK for leave to remain).
* But aircraft security guards, crew on training, loadmasters and others are not accepted as operating crew; they will need their passport and, where applicable, visas.
Airport based operational ground staff (station managers, security managers and technical managers only) of overseas owned airlines do need prior entry clearance under paragraph 178 of the Rules. All other staff of overseas and UK airlines who will be based in the UK will need entry clearance and a work permit and applications need to be considered under paragraph 128 of the Rules.
CRM2.5 Visa endorsement for crew joining a ship / plane
D: Joining aicraft/ship (name) at (name of port). This endorsement is not for those in transit.