Port Visit (Naval)

A naval port visit is a call by a warship at a foreign port, requiring diplomatic clearance because the warship carries the sovereign immunity of its flag state. Such visits range from operational replenishment to formal goodwill calls supporting defense diplomacy. Under UNCLOS a warship in foreign internal waters and ports is subject to coastal-state consent; warships also retain immunity from arrest and inspection (UNCLOS Article 32, and Articles 95 and 96 on the high seas). Granting or refusing entry is a sovereign act of the host state.