19 U.S.C. § 1438 : US Code - Section 1438: Unlawful return of foreign vessel's papers

Search 19 U.S.C. § 1438 : US Code - Section 1438: Unlawful return of foreign vessel's papers

It shall not be lawful for any foreign consul to deliver to the
master of any foreign vessel the register, or document in lieu
thereof, deposited with him in accordance with the provisions of
section 1434 of this title, or regulations issued thereunder, until
such master shall produce to him a clearance in due form from the
Customs Service in the port in which such vessel has entered. Any
consul offending against the provisions of this section shall be
liable to a fine of not more than $5,000.