A Guide for Ships & Vessels in Papua New Guinea
This guide details the mandatory Customs procedures for all vessels arriving in Papua New Guinea (PNG). It is designed for the Master, Captain, Owner, or appointed Shipping Agent to ensure compliance and facilitate a smooth port entry.
Pre-Arrival Reporting & Cargo Declaration
All vessels must submit an Impending Arrival Report. The deadline is determined by the voyage duration from your last port of call.
| Voyage Duration from Last Port | Report Submission Deadline | Key Details to Include |
|---|---|---|
| 48 hours or more | 48 hours before the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA). | The ETA at the first port of call in PNG and the ETA at any subsequent PNG ports on your itinerary. |
| Less than 48 hours | 24 hours before the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA). | The ETA at the first port of call in PNG and the ETA at any subsequent PNG ports on your itinerary. |
For Vessels Carrying Cargo:
A Cargo Report (Manifest) detailing all goods—whether for unloading in PNG or remaining on board—must be submitted 48 hours before arrival. This should be filed via the Customs ASYCUDA system or delivered to a Customs office.
Note on Operational Procedures:
- Transhipments: Cargo intended for transhipment (goods remaining on board for export to a third country) must be clearly declared on the standard cargo manifest. Specific transhipment permits or bonds may be required upon arrival; confirm with Customs.
- Temporary Imports: Spare parts, specialized equipment, or other goods imported temporarily for the vessel’s use must be declared on the Ship’s Stores list. These items typically remain under Customs control and must be re-exported.
Document Portfolio for Presentation on Arrival
Upon arrival at the berth, the Master or Agent must present a comprehensive set of documents to the attending Customs Officer.
Core Documents
Required for ALL arriving vessels:
- General & Voyage Docs: Clearance from last port, Inwards Manifest, detailed Voyage/Itinerary.
- Personnel & Inventory: Crew List Appendix, Passenger List, List of Ship’s Stores, Ship’s Bunkers, Consumption List.
- Regulatory & Financial: Collector’s Permit, Application for clearance and guarantee to pay duty, Certificate of Pratique (issued by PNG Health), Articles in Possession.
Additional Documents Based on Movement
| Vessel Movement / Nature | Specific Additional Document Required |
|---|---|
| Arriving from another port within PNG (coastal movement) | Transires form. |
| Upon specific request by the Customs Officer | Ship’s Articles. |
Personnel Reporting & Control
Accurate reporting and management of all persons on board is a critical legal requirement under Customs and Immigration laws.
- Crew & Passenger Lists: Complete and accurate Crew List Appendix and Passenger List are mandatory for submission upon arrival.
- Crew Entitlements: Crew members’ personal effects must be declared under “Articles in Possession.” These items are for personal use only and may be inspected; duty-free concessions are subject to regulations.
- Crew Changes: Procedures for crew joining or signing off in PNG are managed by the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICSA) and must be pre-coordinated. Customs must be notified of any changes to the crew complement declared on the original manifest.
- Reporting Absent Crew: The final crew list presented upon arrival must account for all personnel. Unexplained discrepancies must be reported immediately to Customs and Immigration.
- Stowaways: The discovery of stowaways must be reported immediately to Customs, Immigration, and Police upon arrival, as per international and PNG law.
Compliance, Inspections & Final Notes
- Vessel Searches: Customs reserves the right to conduct a full vessel search based on specific intelligence or if the ship’s movement or documentation suggests illegal activity.
- Severe Penalties: Non-compliance with reporting, documentation, or declaration requirements can lead to severe penalties under PNG law. When in doubt about any procedure, contact Customs for guidance before arrival.
- Pro-Tip: Engaging a local PNG Shipping Agent is highly recommended. They are experts in navigating these procedures and can ensure timely and accurate submission.
