Abandonment Criteria
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has established guidance defining when a seafarer is considered abandoned by their shipowner.
According to the IMO guidance, a seafarer is deemed abandoned under the following conditions:
- When the shipowner fails to cover the cost of the seafarer's repatriation.
- When the shipowner leaves the seafarer without the necessary maintenance and support.
- When the shipowner unilaterally severs ties with the seafarer. This criterion specifically includes the failure to pay contractual wages for a period of at least two months.