Traveling to Taiwan
Taiwan is a small but important island nation off the east coast of mainland China. It is known for its stunning temples and civic architecture, as well as its burgeoning economy and vibrant population.
There are over 60 nationalities that are eligible to enter Taiwan visa-free for stays of up to 14, 30, or 90 days. All other nationalities must obtain a visa to travel to Taiwan. Fortunately, the application process is very straightforward and caters to both short-term stays and longer residencies. The validity of a Taiwan visa will depend on the visa type and the intended length of stay. Visitor visas are valid for three (3) months up to one (1) year. Resident visas are valid for up to three (3) months, during which time holders must obtain an Alien Resident Card and a Re-entry Permit to continue to reside legally in Taiwan.
Taiwan visa types
There are two types of visas available for travelers coming to Taiwan. The available visa types for foreign nationals are:
- Visitor visa
- Visitor visas are issued to travelers who intend to stay in Taiwan for a short period of time (less than 180 days) for tourism, visiting family, medical, study, or business purposes. This visa type is available as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
- Taiwan Visitor visas are valid for three (3) months up to one (1) year. There are four options for the duration of stay: 14 days, 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days.
- Resident visa
- Resident visas are for anyone looking to stay in Taiwan for a long period of time (more than 180 days). This visa type is available as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
- Resident visas are valid for up to three (3) months. Resident visa holders have 15 days from the date of arrival to apply for an Alien Resident Certificate and Re-entry Permit at the service center of the National Immigration Agency. They can remain in Taiwan as long as the Alien Resident Certificate remains valid.
Certain foreign nationals can obtain a Taiwan eVisa for short-term visits of up to 30 days.
Taiwan visa requirements
Taiwan visas
To apply for a visa to Taiwan, applicants must gather and submit all required materials and documents. The requirements will depend on the visa type and the purpose of the trip to Taiwan.
The following are the basic requirements all applicants must meet to apply for a Taiwan visa:
Passport
Passports should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended arrival in Taiwan.
Two (2) recent personal photos
Applicants must have two passport-size photos taken within the last six (6) months to include with their application form.
A complete application form
For most nationalities, visa applications can be completed online and printed out to be included with the other application materials. Application forms must be completed dutifully and accurately.
Valid payment method
Applicants must possess a valid means of payment to cover the visa fees such as a valid credit or debit card.
Depending on the visa type and the purpose of travel, some applicants may need to submit additional documentation. Examples of other requirements include official letters of business, a tour itinerary, or a return flight ticket.
Taiwan visa application steps
The method of submission for a Taiwan visa will depend on the applicant’s nationality. Applicants can apply online to receive an eVisa or through consular processing to receive a sticker visa.
Applicants will take of one the following set of steps according to the method that best suits their needs:
Taiwan sticker visa
- Complete visa application form
Visa application forms can be completed online and printed out to be included with the other application materials.
- Gather the required documents
Applicants should collect and double-check all required materials before attending the visa appointment.
- Schedule a visa appointment (if required)
Applicants may be required to make and attend an appointment at their nearest embassy or consulate.
- Submit visa application for processing
Visa application packets can be submitted at the nearest embassy or consulate.
- Pay the visa fee
The visa fee payment method will vary depending on the foreign mission where the applicant submits their visa application materials.
- Await visa decision
Once approved, applicants can collect their passports with their new sticker visa inside from the same embassy or consulate where they submitted their application.
Taiwan eVisa
- Complete visa application form
Visa application forms can be completed online at the official eVisa portal.
- Submit all required documents.
All required information and documents must be submitted online.
- Pay the visa fee
Visa fees can be paid by credit card (Visa or Mastercard).
- Receive and print the eVisa
Applicants will receive an email with a link to their new eVisa. They must download and print the eVisa and bring it with them when they travel to Taiwan.
Please note that In some cases eVisa applicants will be requested to submit additional materials. These materials must be submitted within the deadline as stipulated by the immigration officials.
Where to apply for Taiwan visa
Applicants can apply for their visa to Taiwan at the nearest foreign mission (embassy or consulate). For most nationalities, the visa application can be completed online and printed to be included in the application packet. Eligible foreign nationals can apply for a Taiwan eVisa for short-term visits of up to 30 days at the official eVisa portal.
Taiwan visa processing time
Processing times for Taiwan visas will vary depending on the visa type and the foreign mission (embassy or consulate) where the application is submitted. Applicants should be sure to give themselves plenty of time before traveling to receive a decision on their visa.
