Quick Answer

Conditional, Holland America Line (HAL) may consider individuals with felony convictions, but employment decisions—particularly for shipboard roles—are highly restricted by international maritime regulations and U.S. federal requirements. As a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation with approximately 800+ employees at its Seattle headquarters and thousands of shipboard crew from over 70 nationalities, Holland America Line operates 11 premium cruise ships visiting all seven continents. Employment decisions are conditional upon passing extensive background checks, obtaining required police clearances, and meeting STCW certification requirements.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, they must conduct an individualized assessment of the conviction to determine if it is job-related and consistent with business necessity. Starting July 1, 2026, Washington's amended Fair Chance Act requires employers to wait until after a conditional job offer before conducting background checks.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to violence or sexual offenses (incompatible with maritime safety requirements), theft or fraud (directly related to handling guest property and financial transactions), and drug trafficking (violates maritime drug-free workplace requirements). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Shore-based corporate positions at the Seattle headquarters offer the most accessible pathway for second chance applicants, protected by Washington's Fair Chance Act. Shipboard positions face significantly higher barriers due to international port entry requirements, police clearance mandates, and STCW certification standards.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• No Blanket Exclusion: Must be aware that the company is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment.

  
  

• Job-Related Assessment: Must be prepared for the company to evaluate whether your felony is related to the job duties using the Green Factors (nature of crime, time elapsed, nature of job).

  
  

• Police Clearance (Shipboard): Shipboard applicants must obtain police clearance certificates from their country of residence, verifying criminal record status. This is mandatory for all cruise line employment.

  
  

• STCW Certification (Shipboard): Must possess valid STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certificate for shipboard positions, including updated 2026 training on prevention of violence and harassment.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. Holland America maintains a drug-free workplace policy aligned with Coast Guard and maritime regulations.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer for WA positions). Lying is an automatic disqualifier.

  
  

• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Shipboard positions may require passport validity of at least one year and C1/D Seaman's Visa eligibility for non-U.S. citizens.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in cruise line employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Holland America Line operates from its Seattle headquarters (subject to Washington State and Seattle Fair Chance laws) while shipboard operations are governed by complex international maritime regulations. Shore-based positions benefit from strong Washington State protections effective July 2026, while shipboard roles face significantly more restrictive international requirements.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Holland America Line must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Allow a minimum of two business days to dispute inaccuracies (five business days if combined with WA Fair Chance requirements);

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands after review.

State-Specific Considerations

Washington State has strong Fair Chance protections under the amended Washington Fair Chance Act (HB 1747), effective July 1, 2026 for employers with 15+ employees. The law prohibits criminal history inquiries until after a conditional job offer, bans automatic exclusion policies, requires documented "legitimate business reason" for any denial, and prohibits consideration of arrest records or juvenile convictions. The City of Seattle has had Fair Chance Employment protections since 2013. Washington generally follows a 7-year criminal lookback under RCW 19.182.040, though positions with salaries over $20,000 may not be subject to this limitation.

Maritime Industry-Specific Considerations

The cruise industry operates under complex international and federal maritime regulations. International Port Entry: Each foreign country can deny entry to crew with criminal records. Canada is particularly strict, often barring entry for DUI or serious offenses unless they obtain a Temporary Resident Permit. Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA): U.S. federal law requires cruise lines to report specific serious felonies (homicide, assault, sexual assaults, theft over $10,000) to the FBI. 2026 STCW Mandate: Effective January 1, 2026, all seafarers must complete updated STCW Basic Safety Training including prevention of violence and harassment. Coast Guard Regulations (46 CFR 10.211): Merchant Mariner Credentials require criminal record review with specific assessment criteria.

Company Overview

Holland America Line is a premium cruise line and subsidiary of Carnival Corporation. Founded in 1873 in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the company has over 150 years of maritime heritage. Acquired by Carnival Corporation in 1989, it is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The company operates 11 modern ships offering more than 500 cruises annually to over 400 ports in nearly 100 countries across all seven continents, positioned in the premium cruise segment known for spacious ships and award-winning service.

Holland America Line employs approximately 800+ employees at its Seattle corporate headquarters and thousands of shipboard crew members representing over 70 nationalities. The company emphasizes career development through HAL University, providing nearly 300 standardized training courses for employees at every level. The Career Roadmap program provides customized training and development plans based on employee skills and career goals. Parent company Carnival Corporation employs over 160,000 team members globally and was named to Forbes' 2024 list of America's Best Large Employers, ranking 191st overall and 8th in travel and leisure.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1873 (Rotterdam, Netherlands)

• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington (450 3rd Ave W)

• Employees: 800+ Seattle corporate; thousands shipboard globally

• Parent Company: Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE: CCL)

• Fleet: 11 ships (Pinnacle, Signature, Vista, and Rotterdam classes)

• Destinations: 500+ cruises to 400+ ports in nearly 100 countries

• Industry Position: Premium cruise segment leader with 150+ years of service

• Recognition: Star Diamond Award; ISO 14001 environmental certification

Hiring Policy Analysis

Holland America Line has not publicly established a formal "second chance" hiring program, but as a Washington State employer subject to the Fair Chance Act, the company must follow individualized assessment requirements and cannot automatically exclude applicants based solely on criminal history. For shore-based positions at Seattle headquarters, background checks are conducted after initial qualification determination under current law (and after conditional offer starting July 2026). The company's hiring practices align with EEOC guidelines requiring job-relatedness analysis. Shipboard positions are subject to more extensive international requirements including police clearances from country of residence, STCW certification verification, and maritime security assessments conducted by the Coast Guard and other regulatory agencies. The hiring process typically takes about two weeks according to employee reports on Glassdoor and Indeed.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by position location (shore vs. shipboard), access to guests and financial systems, international travel requirements, and regulatory oversight including STCW certification and port entry requirements.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and performance. Seattle-based roles reflect Seattle cost of living.

Career Path Examples

Holland America Line emphasizes career development through HAL University and internal advancement. The company's Career Roadmap program provides customized training and development plans.

Corporate Sales Track: Personal Cruise Consultant ($31K-$50K/yr base) → Senior Sales Consultant ($50K-$79K/yr) → Sales Team Lead ($70K-$90K/yr) → Sales Manager ($90K-$120K/yr). Commission structure can significantly increase compensation.

Finance/Operations Track: Staff Accountant ($47K-$56K/yr) → Senior Accountant ($60K-$75K/yr) → Finance Manager ($85K-$110K/yr) → Director of Finance ($120K-$170K/yr). Requires progressive experience and often CPA.

IT/Technical Track: Technical Analyst ($80K-$95K/yr) → Senior Technical Analyst ($95K-$115K/yr) → IT Manager ($110K-$140K/yr) → Director, IT ($140K-$180K/yr). Technology certifications valued.

Background Check Process

Understanding Holland America Line's background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. For shore-based positions at the Seattle corporate headquarters, background checks occur after determining an applicant is qualified under current Washington law (and after a conditional offer starting July 1, 2026 under the amended Fair Chance Act). Shipboard positions require extensive multi-jurisdictional checks throughout the hiring process due to maritime security regulations and international port requirements.

What They Check (Shore-Based): Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace; employment history verification (typically 5-7 years); education verification for positions requiring specific credentials; drug screening.

What They Check (Shipboard): All shore-based checks plus: police clearance certificate from country of residence; STCW certification verification; passport and visa eligibility; FBI background check for U.S.-based crew; international criminal checks; pre-employment medical examination (PEME); Coast Guard maritime credential review.

Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback for most shore-based positions. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years. Shipboard positions may have no time limit for serious offenses due to international maritime regulations.

Timeline: Shore-based hiring averages approximately 2 weeks from application to decision. Background checks add 1-2 weeks. Shipboard positions take significantly longer—police clearance processing can take 1-3 weeks, and total onboarding may take several weeks to months.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview(s) → Conditional offer → Background check authorization → Drug test (if applicable) → Background check conducted → Individualized assessment → Final decision → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Violence or assault (incompatible with guest safety); Sexual offenses (strict maritime industry standards, STCW 2026 requirements); Drug trafficking (Coast Guard regulations); Armed robbery (Carnival Corporation policy); Theft or fraud involving significant amounts; Any conviction preventing international port entry.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent offenses over 7 years old; Minor drug possession (not distribution); White-collar offenses not involving cruise industry functions; Traffic offenses (except DUI which affects port entry). All subject to individualized assessment.

Your Rights as Applicant

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before a background check. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and the right to dispute inaccuracies.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and summary of rights. Minimum two business days to respond (five days under WA Fair Chance Act starting July 2026).

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited.

  
  

• Washington Fair Chance Act (July 2026): Employers cannot ask about criminal history until after conditional offer. Cannot use arrest records or juvenile convictions. Must document legitimate business reason for any denial.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. Check your own records beforehand.

Application Strategy

1. Prioritize Shore-Based/Corporate Positions: Apply for Seattle-based or remote roles first. These positions are protected by Washington's Fair Chance Act and do not require international maritime clearances. Sales Agent, IT, Administrative, and Finance roles offer the most accessible pathways.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through hollandamerica.com/careers or the Holland America Group careers portal. The company posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. For shipboard positions, only apply through official hiring partners.

   
   

3. Wait for Appropriate Stage to Discuss Record: Under Washington law (and starting July 2026 under enhanced protections), do not volunteer criminal history on initial applications. Wait until the appropriate stage—after initial screening under current law, or after conditional offer under the 2026 amendments.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest When Asked: Never lie about your criminal history. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier in the cruise industry, where trust is paramount given the isolated ship environment and guest safety requirements.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without making excuses, describe what you learned, and explain how you've changed. Focus on rehabilitation, personal growth, and stability. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, employment history, community involvement, and references.

   
   

7. Check Expungement Eligibility: Research whether your offense qualifies for sealing or expungement under Washington law. Contact Northwest Justice Project or other legal aid organizations. Sealed records cannot be reported on most background checks.

   
   

8. Consider Carnival Corporation Sister Brands: If Holland America doesn't work out, consider other Carnival Corporation brands (Princess Cruises, Seabourn) which share similar corporate structures and may have shore-based openings.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Cruise Industry Has Regular Hiring Needs: With 11 ships operating 500+ cruises annually and seasonal Alaska operations through HAP Alaska-Yukon (hiring 4,000+ seasonal positions), Holland America Line has continuous staffing needs. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections.

   
   

2. Start Shore-Based, Prove Reliability: Many successful careers begin in entry-level corporate positions. Demonstrate consistent performance, reliability, and commitment to company values before considering shipboard advancement.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before the employer sees it. Order your own criminal background check from a consumer reporting agency. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance.

   
   

4. Understand International Travel Limitations: If considering shipboard roles, research entry requirements for countries on cruise itineraries. Canada is particularly strict—even DUI convictions can bar entry.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them completely before applying. Maritime industry has zero tolerance. Washington's recreational marijuana legalization does not apply to federally-regulated maritime positions.

   
   

6. Highlight Customer Service Skills: Cruise industry prioritizes guest experience. Emphasize any hospitality, retail, or customer service experience. Demonstrate friendly, professional demeanor.

   
   

7. Network and Use Employee Referrals: Current employees can provide referrals. Employee referrals often receive priority consideration. Network through LinkedIn or workforce development programs.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Location and Schedule: Willingness to work in Seattle (or relocate), take remote positions, or accept seasonal Alaska positions increases your chances. Sales positions often offer remote work options.

Benefits Overview

Holland America Line offers comprehensive benefits for shore-based employees at the Seattle headquarters. Benefits packages are competitive with other cruise industry employers and Seattle-area companies. Shipboard employees receive different benefits including room and board, meals, and travel to and from the ship.

Compensation: Competitive salaries benchmarked against Seattle market. Sales roles include base plus commission. Annual salary reviews. Internship program pays $25/hr.

401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with company match available to eligible employees.

Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance. HSA and FSA options. Short-term and long-term disability coverage. Life insurance.

Time Off: PTO policy with good starting vacation balance. Paid holidays. Parental leave benefits.

Additional Benefits: Cruise benefits and reduced-fare travel. Tuition assistance and professional certification support. HAL University training. Recruitment expense coverage for shipboard positions.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Great cruise benefits; good starting vacation; supportive teams; opportunity to work in travel industry; flexible remote options for some roles; diverse multicultural environment.

Cons: Retirement plan could be more competitive; sales metrics change frequently; high turnover in some departments; training can be lengthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Holland America Line hire people with felonies?

   Holland America Line may consider individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis, particularly for shore-based positions protected by Washington's Fair Chance Act. The company cannot automatically exclude applicants solely based on criminal history and must conduct individualized assessments. However, shipboard positions face significantly higher barriers due to international maritime regulations, police clearance requirements, and foreign port entry restrictions. Convictions involving violence, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, or serious theft face near-automatic disqualification for shipboard roles. Shore-based corporate positions in Seattle offer the best opportunities for second chance applicants seeking employment with this premium cruise line.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Holland America Line?

   For shore-based positions, Holland America conducts background checks after determining an applicant is otherwise qualified under current law (after conditional offer starting July 2026 under the amended Washington Fair Chance Act). Background checks include criminal history searches at county, state, and federal levels, employment verification typically covering 5-7 years, and drug screening for applicable positions. Shipboard positions require extensive additional screening including police clearance certificates from country of residence, STCW certification verification, FBI background checks for U.S.-based crew, international criminal checks from all countries of previous residence, and comprehensive pre-employment medical examination (PEME). Results are reviewed using individualized assessment under EEOC guidelines before final hiring decisions are made.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Holland America Line—what is the lookback period?

   Standard criminal background checks extend 7 years for most shore-based positions, consistent with Washington State guidelines. Employment verification typically covers 5-7 years. Positions with annual salaries over $20,000 may not be subject to the 7-year limitation. Shipboard positions may have no time limit for serious offenses due to international maritime regulations and foreign port entry restrictions.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Holland America Line?

   Highest difficulty: Violence or assault, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, armed robbery, and theft or fraud involving significant amounts—these face near-automatic disqualification for shipboard roles. Moderate difficulty: DUI (particularly problematic for Canadian port entry), drug possession, financial crimes. Lower difficulty for shore-based: Non-violent offenses over 7 years old, minor offenses unrelated to job duties.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Holland America Line for applicants with a record?

   Shore-based Seattle positions offer the best opportunities: Personal Cruise Consultant ($31K-$79K/yr with commission) offers remote options; Staff Accountant ($47K-$56K/yr) and administrative roles provide standard corporate environment; IT Technical Analyst positions ($80K-$110K/yr) for those with technology skills. HAP Alaska-Yukon seasonal positions (May-October) offer entry points. Avoid shipboard positions initially as they face highest barriers.

   
   

6. Does Holland America Line drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Holland America Line conducts drug testing, particularly for safety-sensitive positions and all shipboard roles. Testing is typically urine screening. The maritime industry maintains strict drug-free workplace requirements under Coast Guard regulations. Washington State's recreational marijuana legalization does not apply to positions regulated under federal maritime law. Random testing may occur for shipboard crew.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Holland America Line ask about criminal history?

   Under current Washington law, criminal history inquiries occur after the employer determines an applicant is otherwise qualified. Starting July 1, 2026, under the amended Washington Fair Chance Act, employers must wait until after extending a conditional job offer. Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance has required this timing since 2013. For shipboard positions, criminal history through police clearance is verified as part of maritime credentialing.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Holland America Line if they have a felony?

   For shore-based positions, advancement to management is possible for individuals who demonstrate strong performance. Washington's Fair Chance Act protections extend to current employees. However, promotions involving increased security clearances, international travel, or shipboard assignments may trigger additional background review. The company's HAL University and Career Roadmap programs support professional development.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Holland America Line?

   Employee reports indicate the interview process takes about two weeks for shore-based positions. Background checks add approximately 1-2 weeks. Total time from application to start is typically 3-4 weeks for corporate positions. Shipboard positions take significantly longer—police clearance processing alone can take 1-3 weeks, and total onboarding may take several weeks to months.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Holland America Line?

    Focus on shore-based positions at the Seattle headquarters first, as these offer the most accessible pathway for second chance applicants. Be completely honest about your record when asked—dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and damages trust in the cruise industry. Prepare a concise narrative (30-60 seconds) about your conviction, rehabilitation efforts, and personal growth. Document evidence of rehabilitation including certificates, stable employment history, educational achievements, and professional references. Run your own background check first through a consumer reporting agency to identify and correct any errors before the employer sees it. Research expungement eligibility under Washington law and consult with legal aid organizations if appropriate. Emphasize customer service skills and hospitality experience, as guest experience is paramount in the cruise industry. Apply through official channels only—never pay recruiting fees or use unofficial partners. Consider Carnival Corporation sister brands (Princess Cruises, Seabourn) if specific Holland America positions aren't available. Be flexible on location, scheduling, and starting positions to demonstrate your commitment to entering the industry.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Holland America Line doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in the cruise, hospitality, and Seattle-area industries. Many of these companies have established programs or demonstrated track records of hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds:

Conclusion

Holland America Line offers limited but real opportunities for individuals with criminal records, primarily through shore-based positions at the Seattle headquarters. As a Washington State employer subject to the Fair Chance Act (with enhanced protections effective July 2026), the company cannot automatically exclude applicants based solely on criminal history and must conduct individualized assessments. The Seattle corporate environment provides competitive salaries ranging from entry-level positions at $35,000 to senior director roles exceeding $170,000, comprehensive benefits including cruise privileges, and the unique experience of working in the travel industry.

Shipboard positions remain extremely challenging for applicants with records due to the complex web of international maritime regulations, police clearance requirements, STCW certification standards, and foreign port entry restrictions. Canada's strict inadmissibility policies mean that even DUI convictions can prevent employment on Alaska cruises. Violence, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, and serious theft convictions face near-automatic disqualification for any role involving cruise ship operations.

Key Success Factors: Focus on shore-based Seattle positions; be completely honest about your record; prepare documentation of rehabilitation; run your own background check first; research expungement eligibility; emphasize customer service skills; apply through official channels only.

Biggest Barriers: Violent or sexual offenses (incompatible with maritime safety standards); drug trafficking (Coast Guard regulations); DUI convictions (Canadian port entry issues); any conviction preventing international travel; dishonesty during application process.

The cruise industry offers a unique career path combining travel, hospitality, and competitive compensation. While shipboard positions present significant barriers for second chance applicants, the shore-based corporate environment in Seattle—protected by strong state fair chance laws—provides a genuine pathway to employment with a 150-year-old company. Start with realistic expectations, target appropriate positions, and demonstrate the reliability that the industry values.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), and salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Holland America Line.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Maritime employment involves additional international regulations that may affect eligibility. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/careers.html