Repatriation Rights for Seafarers

Repatriation rights for seafarers refer to their legal entitlement to return home at the end of their contract or if their employment is terminated. This right ensures that seafarers are provided with a safe and cost-free return to their home country. Maritime labor laws, such as the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), uphold these rights, mandating ship owners to cover the costs of travel and provide assistance in case of emergencies, illness, or contract disputes. These protections help ensure that seafarers are treated fairly and can reunite with their families after long periods at sea.