The Philippines has launched a cruise visa waiver to help boost cruise tourism.
Foreign cruise ship guests can now apply in advance for the waiver at the Bureau of Immigration’s online portal,
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the move will streamline shore visits and attract more cruise passengers.
Last year the country welcomed 123 port calls, carrying more than 101,000 passengers.
This year, it forecasts a total of 118,000 cruise guests.
“With the implementation of the cruise visa waiver program, we expect more cruise tourists to arrive,” Frasco said.
The visa waiver program is eligible for foreign nationals who only arrive and exit the Philippines aboard their cruise ship’s scheduled itinerary.
It is for single-entry use and is valid up to a maximum of 14 days stay in the country.
