The“Mediterranean” cruise ship flying the flag of Bahamas recently berthed at Qingdao Cruise Home Port, marking the entry into China through Shandong province of the first cruise ship following the implementation of the policy on visa exemption for foreign tourist groups entering China by cruise ship on May 15. Foreign tourists from the USA, Singapore and other countries benefited from the new policy.

The National Immigration Administration of the People’s Republic of China announced on May 15 that visa exemptions would be fully granted to foreign tourist groups entering China by cruise ship. Foreign tourists who enter China by cruise ship are exempted from filling entry cards, leaving their fingerprints and other biological information, and getting stamped for entry verification. Additionally, multiple support measures to boost the cruise ship industry have been rolled out in respect to customs clearance for international tourists traveling by cruise ship, and crew landing. Following the adoption of the new policy, customs clearance has become much more efficient and now takes only one third of the time consumed before. (Liang Chao)

The “Mediterranean” cruise ship berthing at Qingdao Cruise Home Port.