If someone who is NOT a U.S. Citizen purchases a boat in the U.S., the minute the sale is completed, it is now an un-registered vessel.
The new owner is required to file Form 1300 (Permit to Proceed) with U.S. Customs. (A Customs broker’s office will handle this if desired).
The vessel can operate within the jurisdiction of the Port (i.e. Dock A to Dock B in Miami) with a Bill of Sale on board AND a copy of the Bill of Sale on file with the Marine Division of U.S. Customs. BUT if the vessel wants to move to the jurisdiction of another Port (i.e. Miami to Fort Lauderdale), then Form 1300 MUST be filed.
Fines can be steep ($5,000) for a first offense.
The following foreign flagged vessels are permitted to receive a US Cruising Permit, which will allow the vessel to move freely from Port to Port
WITHIN US WATERS.
Cruising Permits are issued for a Period of up to 1 year.
From the Dept. of Homeland Security
(Formerly US Customs)
Important language and warning printed on U.S. Cruising Permits
click here
FOREIGN FLAGGED PLEASURE VESSELS/IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS
The Captain of a foreign flagged vessel must report to US Customs and make a formal entry within 24 hours of arrival. If the vessel does not have US Cruising Permit, one must be obtained before moving to another Port within US Waters.
The Captain must complete customs forms along with a “Passenger/Crew” list.
All persons entering the US from a foreign port must present themselves to US Customs upon arrival (including all crew members).
Crew members must present a valid passport and a non-immigrant Visa (B1/B2).
US Citizens must have a passport OR valid photo identification and Birth Certificate.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Operators of vessels arriving in the United States from a foreign port or place are required to report their arrival to CBP (Customs and Border Protection) immediately.
For more information please
click here.
