princess cruise october 9, 2016

Question

Coming from S. Korea this cruise stops in Shanghai for 11 hours, then goes to Hong Kong. Reading the English interpretation of new 144 hour rule, this cruise should qualify, right? I see no reason for China to treat this itinerary any different whether you come to and go out of Shanghai on the same ship or you come to Shanghai on one ship and leave on another, or is there? Does this itinerary qualify for visa free stop?While cruise passenger is not transit to a ship, he/she is transit to the port of Shanghai, right?Does China consider this stop in Shanghai as transit? Is there anything in new rule qualifying the term transit and, if so, could you provide a link to it?

Lau · Answer

Hi, I think you are qualified for the 144 hours free visa. You can inform your cruise company, so that they can declare your request to the immigration office for processing.

Gary · Answer

I agree with you and I think so too. However, Princess said that coming and leaving Shanghai on the same ship does not constitute transit and, consequently, does nor qualify for no visa entry. This new rule is to encourage trade and, from China perspective, what Princess said does not make sense. Yet our opinions do not count. Is there any document I can show Princess to change their mind?

Allison · Answer

Dear Gary, your situation is eligible to the 144-hour visa free according to the terms of the policy. However, if your cruise company said it does not qualify for no visa entry, I am afraid that you will not be able to board the ship successfully. Should you have any questions, you may call Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection at 0086-21-5110510.

Princess Cruise October 9, 2016

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