In a bid to boost cruise tourism and facilitate smoother travel experiences, China has announced the implementation of a visa-free entry policy for foreign tourist groups arriving in coastal provinces by cruise ships. The decision, following consultations with various government departments including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, aims to streamline entry procedures and promote tourism in China.
Effective May 15, 2024, foreign tourist groups comprising two individuals or more, arriving on a cruise ship organised by a Chinese travel agency, can enter China without visas. The policy applies to designated cruise ports in 13 cities across coastal provinces, including Tianjin, Dalian, Shanghai, and Xiamen, among others. Upon entry, these groups must continue their journey to the next scheduled port and depart from China within 15 days via the same cruise ship. Additionally, visitors are permitted to travel within coastal provinces, including autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the Central Government, as well as Beijing.
Furthermore, China has expanded its visa-free transit policy to include seven new cruise ports, namely Dalian, Lianyungang, Wenzhou, Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beihai. This expansion aims to simplify transit procedures for eligible foreign passengers traveling by cruise ships, enhancing the overall cruise tourism experience in China.
