A Solution Against the Visa Barrier: “Ok-to-Board”

This is not merely a personal inconvenience; it is a structural problem that leads to operational delays, economic losses, and limits Turkey’s maritime potential. And now, a concrete solution has emerged from within the industry itself: the “Ok-to-Board” system.

On June 13, 2025, during the 8th Ordinary General Assembly of the Turkish Maritime Federation (TÜRDEF), Captain Orhan Kasap, who was running for the presidency, brought this issue to the forefront in his speech, presenting “Ok-to-Board” as a promising solution to the visa challenges faced by Turkish seafarers.

The proposal was met with interest by the sector representatives present in the hall. However, describing it as a “first-time” initiative would not be entirely accurate. Captain Kasap candidly acknowledges this:

“We were not the first to bring this system to the agenda. A detailed letter was submitted to the IMO Secretary-General 3–4 years ago, but the necessary follow-up pressure was not applied, and the focus shifted to green passports. Until we brought it back into discussion…”

These words highlight a common pattern in the sector: bringing an issue to the agenda is one thing, but following up and establishing constructive dialogue with the relevant authorities is an entirely different responsibility. Captain Kasap stands out as someone who has taken on that responsibility—reviving the “Ok-to-Board” proposal and personally engaging with key institutions.

Speaking to 7deniz, Captain Orhan Kasap shared the behind-the-scenes efforts in his own words:

“Right after my interview with 7deniz on July 7, 2025, we took immediate action to present our proposal directly to the relevant authorities. First, I met with our Director General of Maritime Affairs, Mr. Ünal Baylan, and submitted a list of countries with which urgent Ok-to-Board agreements are needed. Then, I explained the matter in detail to Deputy Minister Mr. Durmuş Ünüvar. In both meetings, we received a positive response and were assured that the issue would be followed up. Later, I also presented the proposal to Mr. Tamer Kıran, Chairman of the IMEAK Chamber of Shipping. Thankfully, all of them listened with interest and took it under consideration.”

This statement shows that a long-standing structural issue is finally being addressed with greater determination. It also demonstrates how a proactive, communicative, and solution-oriented approach can make a real difference for the maritime sector.

So, what exactly is the “Ok-to-Board” system?

In short, this system ensures that the necessary approvals for seafarers to join their assigned vessels are obtained in advance. This enables visa-free and expedited travel under the guarantee of local agents, reducing uncertainty and delays. From Rotterdam to Hamburg, New York to Shanghai—at the world’s major maritime hubs where visa issues frequently arise—this system offers a strong alternative.

When considered alongside TÜRDEF’s long-standing demands for green passports and recognition of seafarers’ hardship allowances, the “Ok-to-Board” proposal forms part of a more comprehensive solution package for Turkish seafarers. But the critical point here is not just to talk about these proposals—it is to follow through. And that is precisely what Captain Kasap has done: not just speaking up, but knocking on doors and explaining the solution to decision-makers.

This past weekend, when I saw TÜRDEF’s social media post, the first thing I did was message Captain Orhan to say, “Congratulations, you were the first to bring this up.” I saw the same acknowledgment in Deputy Minister Durmuş Ünüvar’s post. It made me think—perhaps this is a sign that things are finally starting to change in the sector.

On this occasion, we would like to sincerely thank all professional chambers, unions, and civil society organizations (CSOs) that have previously raised the issue of international travel and visa barriers faced by Turkish seafarers on various platforms, informed the public, and offered solutions. Their sensitivity and solidarity in addressing our shared maritime challenges continue to strengthen the sector.

Another recent proposal—granting green passports to all seafarers—is certainly noteworthy. However, due to numerical and administrative limitations, it is not a broadly applicable or sustainable solution. Instead, implementing a port-based system like Ok-to-Board, which directly facilitates operational transitions and can encompass all seafarers, offers a more comprehensive and lasting resolution. This model has already been successfully implemented and adopted by other countries facing similar challenges.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Captain Orhan Kasap for his dedication to Turkish maritime affairs—for bringing this solution back to the agenda, for personally engaging with the relevant authorities, and for boldly advancing a visionary initiative that could open new doors for the sector.