CRA and Processing Options | Seafarers | VISR

Proof of submission - without compromising standards
A Confirmation of Receipt of Application (CRA) is an administrative acknowledgment that VISR has received a seafarer application package. It is not an endorsement and does not replace verification or final issuance.

What a CRA does (and does not) confirm

A CRA confirms receipt of an application package. It does not confirm approval, authenticity, or issuance of a certificate. Final issuance occurs only after verification and completion of all requirements.

How to request a CRA

1.       Request the CRA explicitly as part of the application submission (or in the designated cover sheet/request channel).

2.       Ensure supporting documents are included if you are requesting a CRA before originals are received.

3.       Use consistent naming conventions so VISR can match the CRA request to the correct seafarer file.

CRA fees and service standards

Fees are set by published schedule and may be updated. 

Service standard example: A CRA is typically issued within four (4) business days from receipt of a compliant request.

Seafarers submitting their own applications (rules)

·       Where a seafarer submits directly, an additional processing fee may apply.

·       All applications must be submitted online or via courier/regular mail. Walk-in submissions are not accepted.

·       Incomplete applications are held for a defined period (e.g., 90 days). If missing documents are not provided within that window, the applicant must re-apply.

How to avoid CRA problems

·       Request the CRA at submission time; do not assume it will be issued automatically.

·       Match names exactly across application forms, passports, and certificates.

·       Use one file per seafarer with clear labeling to avoid misrouting.

·       Do not request rush service if the issuing-authority verification has not been initiated; verification is the gating item.