The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has launched the Cruise Visa Waiver program in collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
It was learned from BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval that the launch happened last July 16 at the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Authority (TIEZA) in Pasay City and was graced by Secretary of Tourism Christina Garcia Frasco, TIEZA COO Mark Lapid and BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.
She sid that the initiative is set to enhance the Philippines’ position as a top cruise destination, offering a secure and efficient entry process for cruise passengers, adding that the Cruise Visa Waiver program was institutionalized by virtue of Immigration Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001 issued by Commissioner Tansingco on January 25, 2024 and approved by Justice Secretary Remulla on March 14, 2024.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco meanwhile said: “the Cruise Visa Waiver is a significant step in revitalizing our tourism industry after the pandemic. It ensures that cruise tourists can easily visit and enjoy our beautiful country,” said BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.
Sandoval said the joint project between the BI, DOT, and DOJ aims to attract more cruise tourists to the Philippines by simplifying the visa process for those arriving on cruise ships. This initiative comes at a time when the Philippines has been recognized globally, winning awards such as the Best Cruise Destination at the World Cruise Awards in Dubai and Asia’s Best Ports of Call for 2024 at the 19th Asia Cruise Awards in Jeju, South Korea.
The BI chief emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “The Cruise Visa Waiver supports our goal of making the Philippines the cruise hub of Asia. It demonstrates our commitment to providing secure and hassle-free entry for tourists, which is crucial for boosting our tourism sector.”
In 2023, the Philippines welcomed 123 port calls, bringing in over 101,000 passengers. With the new Cruise Visa Waiver program in place, the country is projected to see 117 cruise calls with an estimated 118,000 passengers in 2024. This increase is expected to significantly contribute to the economic recovery and growth of the tourism industry.
“The pandemic had a profound impact on our tourism sector, but with initiatives like the Cruise Visa Waiver, we are confident in our ability to rebound stronger.This program is a testament to our dedication to enhancing the tourist experience while ensuring national security,” said Tansingco.
The Cruise Visa Waiver allows visa-required foreign nationals to enter the Philippines for a limited duration, strictly for cruise tourism purposes. This streamlined process is designed to facilitate entry for tourists, ensuring a seamless travel experience. The visa waiver would allow visa-required cruise tourists on board cruise ships to enjoy their cruise call in the Philippines.
The cruise visa waiver is non-convertible and non-extendable, and would require the bearer to arrive and depart on the same cruise ship. It utilizes the BI’s e-services platform via its website at e-services.immigration.gov.ph.
