Shanghai - do I need to remain with tour group at all times on 15 day visa exemption?

[belfast1]

Hi All,

I'm hoping to avail of the 15 day visa exemption in Shanghai for cruise visitors booked on an official tour.  The truth is I would much rather do my own thing in Shanghai.  If I go ashore as part of an organised tour availing of this visa exemption, is there a requirement to stay with the group for the duration?  Is there an issue if you arrive back to the cruise terminal by yourself?  The guidance issued by the authorities seems to allow for people to stay in a hotel for a night rather than returning to the ship, but doesn't explicitly answer my question.  I'd appreciate hearing from anyone who has been in Shanghai on the 15 day exemption.

Thanks in advance. 

[Miaminice]

We have been to Shanghai on two cruises. To be honest I never heard of the 15 day exception!

 

Depending on your itinerary things are not that complicated and the 72/144 hour transit rule might apply anyway. Read more about it here:

 

[belfast1]

On 10/21/2018 at 6:01 PM, Miaminice said:

We have been to Shanghai on two cruises. To be honest I never heard of the 15 day exception!

 

Depending on your itinerary things are not that complicated and the 72/144 hour transit rule might apply anyway. Read more about it here:

 

Thanks  @Miaminice.  Unfortunately due to our itinerary the transit visa won't apply!

[Miaminice]

23 hours ago, belfast1 said:

Thanks  @Miaminice.  Unfortunately due to our itinerary the transit visa won't apply!

 

Now I also found some information on this...

maybe this helps: https://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/shanghai/15days-visa-free.htm

 

[belfast1]

4 minutes ago, Miaminice said:

 

Now I also found some information on this...

maybe this helps: https://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/shanghai/15days-visa-free.htm

 

Thanks.  Yes, have seen this information but for certainty I have gone ahead and booked a tour through the cruise company.  It seems like many of the independent Chinese tour companies are not approved (or don't know how) to handle the required paperwork.

 

I read your blog on your Celebrity trip to Asia - it's been very helpful!