Do Cruise Ship Passengers Need A Visa For China?

China has implemented a visa-free entry policy for foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country’s coastline. This move is part of efforts to attract international visitors and boost China’s sluggish inbound inbound. A visa for China is required unless qualifying for the 144-hour visa exemption. Guests with a traditional visa will be free to travel in China.

China’s immigration agency announced that it will grant a visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups to enter China by cruise at all cruise ship ports along the country’s coastline. Both the 72 hour and 144 hour transit without visa require that passengers arrive in China directly from another country and then depart within the 72 or 144 hours to China.

Cruise passengers traveling in groups of at least two people can enter the country visa-free through any cruise ship port. A visa is required for China prior to sailing for most voyages unless qualifying for a visa exemption. More than one exemption may be applicable. Under the visa waiver program, visitors are allowed to have a 6-day visa-free stay in Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, and other cities in China.

In summary, China has introduced a visa-free entry policy for foreign tourists entering China via cruise ships, aiming to attract international visitors and boost its economy. Applicants must provide a copy of their cruise booking confirmation, airline electronic ticket receipt, and any independent tour or hotel arrangements when applying for a Chinese visa.