China will allow visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups arriving by cruise ship at 13 ports starting May 15, 2024. Visitors must stay with the same ship and in permitted areas for up to 15 days, aiming to boost tourism and facilitate cruise industry growth.
China’s Visa-Free Entry for Tourist Groups by Cruise Ships
China will allow visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups arriving by cruise ship at 13 ports along the coast, starting May 15, 2024. Visitors must stay with the same ship and in permitted areas for up to 15 days. This policy aims to boost tourism and facilitate high-quality development in the cruise industry.
Visa-Free Policy for Foreign Tourist Groups
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 ports along the coast of China, starting May 15, 2024. The tourist group must remain with the same cruise ship until its next port of call and stay within permitted areas for no more than 15 days.
Implications of the Visa-Free Policy
Effective May 15, 2024, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) has officially implemented a visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via cruise ships. This move aims to enhance personnel exchanges and foster cooperation between China and other nations. The policy is expected to support cruise tourism development and attract more international visitors to the Chinese market.