Job Description

Department / Section: Hotel / Guest Services

Reports to: Guest Services Manager

The Clearance Officer onboard the cruise ship will ensure compliance with immigration, customs, and port clearance procedures for the ship and its passengers. The Clearance Officer will be responsible for coordinating and facilitating the clearance process during port calls, liaising with local authorities, and ensuring smooth operations in accordance with international regulations and local requirements. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of clearance procedures and regulations.

• Clearance Operations: Coordinate and facilitate the clearance process for the ship and its passengers during port calls. Liaise with local immigration, customs, and port authorities to ensure compliance with clearance procedures and regulations;
• Documentation Verification: Verify and ensure the accuracy and completeness of passenger and crew documentation required for clearance, including passports, visas, embarkation/disembarkation cards, and other relevant travel documents. Ensure compliance with immigration regulations and local entry requirements;
• Port Agency Liaison: Maintain effective communication and collaboration with port agents and local authorities to facilitate clearance procedures and other needs. Obtain and provide necessary information, documents, and manifests required for clearance;
• Immigration Procedures: Assist passengers and crew with immigration procedures, such as passport control, visa requirements, and immigration declarations. Coordinate with relevant ship departments to ensure compliance and efficient processing;
• Customs Procedures: Collaborate with customs authorities to ensure compliance with import/export regulations and clearance procedures for goods, supplies, and personal belongings. Assist passengers and crew with customs declarations, inspections, and any necessary documentation;
• Health and Sanitation Requirements: Coordinate with local health authorities to ensure compliance with health and sanitation clearance procedures. Facilitate necessary health screenings, inspections, and documentation required for clearance;
• Security Compliance: Adhere to security protocols and procedures, working closely with ship security personnel and local authorities to ensure a safe and secure clearance process. Monitor and report any security concerns or incidents during clearance operations;
• Timely Departure: Ensure timely completion of clearance procedures to facilitate the ship's departure according to the scheduled itinerary. Coordinate with relevant departments to communicate clearance status and ensure a smooth transition from clearance to onboard operations;
• Recordkeeping and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of clearance activities, including passenger and crew manifests, clearance documentation, and any incidents or irregularities encountered during the process. Prepare reports and documentation required for regulatory compliance and internal recordkeeping;
• Regulatory Knowledge: Stay updated on international maritime regulations, immigration procedures, customs requirements, and health and sanitation protocols. Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.

RequirementsRequirements

• Previous experience in a Clearance Officer role, preferably in other cruise vessels of similar size (15000 GT/3400 pax) is a plus;
• Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills for interaction with local authorities and guests. Knowledge of Arabic is recommended. Any additional languages is a plus;
• Knowledge of Arabic and international port clearance regulations, and immigration and customs regulations;
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with exceptional attention to detail;
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced and dynamic environment;
• Proficiency with shipboard property management systems, including Otalio is a plus;
• Flexibility to work in a 24/7 operational environment, with irregular hour to accommodate ship schedules and port clearance requirement;
• Understanding of shipboard safety and security protocols and the ability to ensure compliance.

Documentation

• Valid Passport;
• Valid Seamans Book;
• STCW Certification;

For Pooling purposes

Contract: 4 month on / 2 month off