China has announced a new policy allowing visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups traveling on cruise ships at 13 designated ports along its expansive coastline. Effective from Wednesday, this initiative is part of China's efforts to boost tourism and facilitate easier access for international visitors.
According to the National Immigration Administration, foreign tourist groups comprising two or more individuals, who are organized and received by domestic travel agencies, can now enter China without a visa when arriving by cruise ship. This policy enables tourists to stay in the country for up to 15 days, provided they continue to travel on the same cruise ship until it departs China.
Designated Cruise Ports Open for Visa-Free Entry
The 13 designated ports include major cities and popular tourist destinations:
- Tianjin Municipality
- Dalian in Liaoning Province
- Shanghai Municipality
- Lianyungang in Jiangsu Province
- Wenzhou and Zhoushan in Zhejiang Province
- Xiamen in Fujian Province
- Qingdao in Shandong Province
- Guangzhou and Shenzhen in Guangdong Province
- Beihai in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
- Haikou and Sanya in Hainan Province
These ports serve as gateways to some of China's most renowned cultural and historical sites, offering tourists an opportunity to explore diverse regional attractions without the prior need for a visa.
Boosting Tourism and International Cooperation
The visa-free policy is expected to stimulate the tourism industry by simplifying travel procedures and encouraging more international cruise lines to include Chinese ports in their itineraries. It reflects China's commitment to opening up and promoting cross-cultural exchange and international cooperation in the tourism sector.
This initiative aligns with global trends towards facilitating easier international travel and may attract business professionals, academics, and culture enthusiasts interested in experiencing China's rich heritage and dynamic cities.
Key Points for Travelers
Tourists wishing to take advantage of this policy should note the following:
- They must be part of a group of at least two people.
- The group must be organized and received by a domestic Chinese travel agency.
- They must arrive and depart on the same cruise ship.
- The maximum duration of stay is 15 days.
Travelers are encouraged to contact their cruise operators or travel agencies to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Reference(s):
China allows visa-free entry to foreign tourist groups on cruises
cgtn.com
