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Do I Need a Visa for Cruise Travel?
Our guide on getting prepared for your cruise, so that you can set sail with ease.
Visa requirements for cruises can be complex, especially if you're unfamiliar with applying for visas. It's important to check the visa requirements for every country you'll be visiting before you travel. While most cruise companies will highlight any necessary visas and assist with the application process, it's always best to verify this in advance.
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Key Points
- It's a good idea to check visa requirements early. Some countries require a visa for cruise passengers, even if you don't plan to disembark.
- Each country has different rules when it comes to whether a visa is required. Get familiar with your cruise itinerary and check the entry requirements for each place you are visiting.
- Cruise Travel Insurance is Essential - make sure you get cover sorted before you hop aboard.
What travel documents do I need to go on a cruise?
To travel on a cruise, your British Citizen passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip. It should also have at least two blank pages. Some countries may also require you to carry a photocopy of your passport alongside the original document.
Depending on the destination you are visiting, you may need a visa. You can check entry requirements online via the UK government website or contact the country's embassy to confirm whether a visa is necessary.
If you're visiting the USA or Canada, you'll need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) or an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for visa-free entry. Many cruise lines work with visa partners who can assist with any additional visa applications required for your itinerary.
You should also ensure that you've taken out proper cruise travel insurance for your trip to ensure that you're protected against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, cancellations and passport loss.
How far in advance should I apply for a visa?
You should apply for your visa as early as you can. In general, at least 3 months before your travel date is a good idea, however, some processing times can be considerably longer than this. Although not as common, you may be required to have an appointment at the embassy or a medical exam. In these cases, applying for a visa can take a lot longer, which is why it is always good to start your application as soon as possible.

Do I still need a visa if I don't plan on getting off the ship at each port?
If required, you must have a visa for the country you are travelling to, even if you do not plan on getting off the cruise ship at each port. Once your ship enters a country's waters, you are still in that country, regardless of whether you get off the ship. This is why it's important to be prepared and make sure that you have the correct documentation.
Do I need a Schengen visa for a cruise from the UK?
If you're not a citizen of the European Union and your cruise includes multiple stops in the Schengen area, you may need a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to travel between multiple European countries with a single permit.
To ensure you meet the requirements, check your cruise itinerary to see if your destinations fall within the Schengen area. You can also contact your embassy to get advice and confirmation on visa requirements for the places you are visiting.
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What to expect from passport control for cruises
- Boarding the Cruise – When you check in for your cruise, the cruise line will usually scan your passport and keep a copy of your details. In some cases, they might hold onto your passport for the duration of your trip, especially if multiple visa checks are needed.
- Arriving at Ports – In most cases, passport control is handled by the cruise line. When you arrive at a port, immigration officers may board the ship to check passengers' details. In other instances, you may need to go through passport control at the terminal before heading ashore.
- Visa Checks – Some countries require a visa to enter, even if you're only visiting for a few hours. Other places also offer "cruise visas" or special exemptions for cruise passengers. Check this with your cruise provider or embassy before you travel.
- Returning to the Ship – Usually, you just need to show your cruise key card to get back on board, but in some cases, you may need your passport too.
Things to Consider
- Take our proper cruise travel insurance: Ensure you have sufficient insurance for your trip. A Holiday Extras Cruise policy is tailored to an adventure at sea, with additional cover for missed port, cabin confinement and unused excursions.
- Make sure the name on your reservation matches the name on your passport: A simple mistake can lead to delays at passport control or in the worst case, refusal to board the ship.
- Bear in mind that individual countries can change regulations without notice: Stay up to date with the latest travel requirements.
Compare cover levels
Choose from three different levels of cover, each with its own cover limits. Ranging from a simpler 'Bronze' plan to a higher level 'Gold' plan, you can tailor your policy to suit your needs. Take a look at our cover-level table to see what's covered, and read through the Policy Documents for more detail on cover.
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For more advice before your cruise, check out our guides on topics from the best cruises for adults to dealing with seasickness.
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Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited, registered office address: Ashford Road, Newingreen, Hythe, Kent CT21 4JF.
Holiday Extras Cover Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 828848. You can check this by visiting the Financial Services Register
Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited. The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 10 Fenchurch Avenue, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN.
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