Federal Register #2026-16319

DHS Final Rule: New Nonimmigrant Classifications for Lightering Crew under Energy Security and Lightering Independence Act

This final rule from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Customs and Border Protection, implements regulatory changes under the Energy Security and Lightering Independence Act of 2022. - Amends regulations for nonimmigrant classifications (C and D) to include crew performing ship-to-ship liquid cargo transfer (lightering) operations for vessels in foreign trade - Establishes new C4 and D3 nonimmigrant subclassifications specifically for lightering crew - Permits qualifying aliens to seek admission or temporary landing permits for up to 180 days - Makes technical amendments to regulatory references and clarifies requirements - No products, services, OEMs, or vendors are involved, as this is a regulatory update, not a procurement action - Notable for expanding nonimmigrant visa eligibility to a new category of maritime workers

Description

This final rule by the Department of Homeland Security amends regulations to conform to the Energy Security and Lightering Independence Act of 2022. The Act modifies nonimmigrant classifications for aliens in transit (C) and crewmen (D) to include those performing ship-to-ship liquid cargo transfer operations (lightering) to or from vessels engaged in foreign trade. It authorizes qualifying aliens to seek admission or request temporary landing permits for up to 180 days. The rule also makes related technical amendments to existing regulations.

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