What Are The Rules For Foreign Yachts Entering Indian Waters?

Foreign yachts entering Indian waters must adhere to strict legal protocols to ensure maritime security, customs compliance, and environmental protection. The rules are designed to regulate entry, movement, and stay of foreign vessels and to maintain sovereignty and safety of Indian maritime zones.

Key Rules and Procedures for Foreign Yachts in Indian Waters

Prior Permission and Notification

• Foreign yachts must seek prior permission before entering Indian territorial waters.
• This involves submitting an advance notice of arrival (at least 96 hours prior) to the Indian Customs and Coast Guard authorities.

Customs Clearance

• Upon arrival, foreign yachts must undergo customs clearance at designated ports.
• Documents required include the yacht’s registration certificate, crew and passenger lists, passports, and proof of ownership.
• A customs officer inspects the vessel and verifies compliance with import/export regulations.

Immigration and Port State Control

• Immigration clearance is mandatory for all crew and passengers.
• Port State Control (PSC) authorities conduct inspections to verify vessel compliance with safety, pollution, and security standards.
• Yachts must comply with international maritime conventions like SOLAS and MARPOL.

Security and Environmental Compliance

• Foreign yachts must adhere to India’s coastal security regulations and not enter restricted zones without authorization.
• They must follow environmental guidelines, including waste management and ballast water discharge rules.

Duration of Stay and Movement Restrictions

• The stay of foreign yachts is typically limited to a specific period, often 60 days, extendable on request.
• Movement within Indian territorial waters may be restricted or monitored by maritime security agencies.

Prohibited Activities

• Commercial activities such as chartering or transporting goods without appropriate licenses are prohibited for foreign yachts without special permission.
• Fishing and other resource-extractive activities are not allowed.

Fees and Charges

• Applicable customs and port fees must be paid.
• Security deposits or bonds may be required as per port regulations.

Example

A foreign yacht planning a leisure trip along the Indian coastline:

• The owner submits a request to the Indian Customs and Coast Guard 4 days before arrival.
• On arrival at Mumbai port, customs officials inspect the yacht and verify documentation.
• Immigration clearance is processed for all on board.
• The yacht complies with environmental and security checks and is granted permission to stay for 60 days.
• The yacht owner ensures no commercial activity is conducted during the stay.
• On departure, the vessel clears customs and immigration, ensuring no pending dues or violations.