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Travel Advisory July 31, 2024

Taiwan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Read the  Taiwan International Travel Information  page for additional information on travel to Taiwan.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the U.S. Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter/X .
• Follow the American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Main Office and Kaohsiung Branch Office on Facebook.
• Review the  security report for Taiwan  from the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC).
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Valid through intended stay

One page per entry/exit stamp

Not required for stay of less than 90 days

None required. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends travelers to Taiwan be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. Vaccination information can be found here .

Declare cash amounts over 100,000 New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), foreign currencies over 10,000 USD, or over 20,000 Chinese Yuan (RMB). Customs details are here.

Embassies and Consulates

The American Institute in Taiwan, Taipei Main Office No. 100 Jinhu Road Neihu District, Taipei 114017, Taiwan Telephone:  +886 2-2162-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:   +886 2-2162-2239 Email:   [email protected] Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need.

The American Institute in Taiwan, Kaohsiung Branch Office 5th Floor, No. 88, Chenggong 2nd Road Qianzhen District, Kaohsiung 806618, Taiwan Telephone:   +886-7-335 5006 Emergency After-Hours Telephone   +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:  +886-7-338-0551 Email:   [email protected] Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need.

The United States maintains unofficial relations with the people on Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), a private, nonprofit corporation, which performs U.S. citizen and consular services similar to those at U.S. embassies and consulates general.

Schedule routine American Citizen Services appointments  online . Appointments are available Monday through Thursday except on  Taiwan and U.S. holidays .

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Taiwan for information on U.S.-Taiwan relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

If you wish to enter Taiwan as a tourist or short-term visitor (less than 90 days), you do not need a visa. No extensions or changes of status are permitted. For visa-waiver travel, your U.S. passport must be valid through the number of days you intend to stay. Six-month passport validity is not required.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or plan to work or reside in Taiwan, you need a Taiwan visa prior to traveling. Visit the website for the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States for the most current visa information.

Taiwan and the United States both allow dual nationality. If you have dual Taiwan-U.S. nationality, you must enter/exit Taiwan on your Taiwan passport and enter/exit the United States on your U.S. passport.

See our website for information on  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction .

Also see our  Customs Information page .

Safety and Security

Potential for Civil Disturbances: Taiwan enjoys a vibrant democracy, and both spontaneous and planned demonstrations occur.  Monitor media coverage of local and regional events and avoid public demonstrations.

Potential for Typhoons and Earthquakes:  During the typhoon season (May through November),  Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau  issues typhoon warnings an average of five times a year (of which, three to four normally make landfall) and heavy rainstorm alerts more frequently. Taiwan also has severe earthquakes, with the most recent severe earthquake on April 3, 2024, with a 7.4 magnitude.  At least 18 people were killed and more than 1,100 injured.

Disaster Preparedness:

• Follow the guidance of local authorities in the event of a disaster. See the National Fire Agency’s page for information on “ Disaster Responses .”
• See the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website  on how to prepare for an emergency.  
• See also the  Hurricane Preparedness  and  Natural Disasters  pages of the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
• When an emergency arises, we will post up-to-date instructions specific to the circumstances of the event on our  website  and send messages to U.S. citizens who have registered through the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

Crime:  There is minimal street crime in Taiwan, and violent crime is rare. Take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding travel after dark or in deserted/unfamiliar areas.  

See the U.S. Department of State's  and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should also seek medical attention and report to the police as soon as possible for help.

• Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic violence and Sexual Assault.
• Dial 110 to report crimes to the local police.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See the U.S. Department of State’s website on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas , as well as AIT’s webpage for  local resources .

• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• assist you with emergency needs that arise from the crime, such as finding shelter, food, or clothing.
• provide information to facilitate access to appropriate medical care.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• explain financial assistance options, such as assistance available to return to the United States.
• replace a lost or stolen passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call 113 for emergency assistance and dial 110 for an island-wide toll-free hotline. Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may also contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000.

Domestic violence is considered a crime in Taiwan. Report to police and keep written records of all incidents. Preserve evidence such as medical records documenting injuries, photos of injuries, police records, and damaged clothing and weapons used against you. If you have a court-issued restraining order, present this to the police for use in the arrest of the offender.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. See  crimes against minors abroad  and the  U.S. Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison authorities to notify the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) immediately. 

• AIT can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers .  
• Taiwan authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave Taiwan while legal proceedings are ongoing. 
• Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, with long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Taiwan also has the death penalty for certain violent crimes and drug offenses.  
• See the U.S. Department of State’s  webpage  for further information. 

Labor Disputes:

• Avoid labor disputes by establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of your employment.
• If the dispute cannot be resolved directly with your employer, the American Institute can provide  a list of English-speaking lawyers .

Customs Regulations:  Taiwan has strict regulations on importing/exporting firearms, antiquities, medications, currency, and ivory. Contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States for specific information  regarding customs requirements . See also  customs regulations .

Dual Nationality and Compulsory Military Service:  Taiwan has compulsory military service for Taiwan males between the ages of 18 and 36.  This includes dual U.S.-Taiwan citizens who enter Taiwan on their U.S. passports . Before you travel, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States to determine your military service status. 

Faith-Based Travelers:   See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Health Screening Process:  To detect and prevent the spread of diseases, Taiwan scans the body temperature of all arriving passengers with an infrared thermal apparatus. Symptomatic passengers are required to fill out a form and may need to give an onsite specimen or see local health authorities. See also the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website .

Judicial Assistance:  Authorities on Taiwan provide judicial assistance in response to letters rogatory from foreign courts in accordance with Taiwan's "Law Governing Extension of Assistance to Foreign Courts." For further information, please go to the  American Institute in Taiwan (AIT)’s website .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) rights events in Taiwan. Taiwan law prohibits education and employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. On May 24, 2019, Taiwan legalized same sex marriages upon registration with a local household registration office in Taiwan. Same sex marriages from other countries are recognized in Taiwan. LGBTQI+ individuals may still face lack of tolerance, particularly in areas outside the capital and largest city Taipei. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Taiwan law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and sets minimum fines for violations. By law, new public buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment must be accessible to persons with disabilities. See  Persons with Disabilities in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan (2022) .

Students: See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Taiwan has modern medical facilities, with state-of-the-art equipment available at many hospitals and clinics. Physicians are well trained, and many have studied in the United States and speak English. Hospital nursing services provide medication and wound care but generally do not provide the daily patient care functions found in U.S. hospitals.

For emergency services in Taiwan, dial 119.

Ambulance services are

• widely available;
• have emergency equipment and supplies;
• and are staffed by trained medical personnel.

The Department of State, U.S. Embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Taiwan hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare to ensure the medication is legal in Taiwan.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all routine vaccinations recommended by the U.S. CDC . Vaccinations are available at all major Taiwan hospitals.

Dengue Fever:  In recent years, Taiwan has seen cases of dengue fever, a virus common in subtropical regions that is spread through mosquito bites. There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent dengue. Travelers can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. For information on how to reduce the risk of contracting dengue, please visit  the U.S. CDC website .

COVID-19: Major Taiwan healthcare facilities have COVID-19 testing capabilities and can administer FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines.

The American Institute in Taiwan does not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are generally good. Roads in major cities are generally congested. Be alert for the many scooters and motorcycles that weave in and out of traffic. Motor scooters are common throughout the island. Be alert for scooters when stepping out of public buses or exiting a car. Exercise caution when crossing streets because many drivers do not respect the pedestrian's right of way. Be especially cautious when driving on mountain roads, which are typically narrow, winding, and poorly banked, and which may be impassable after heavy rains. For example, Taiwan’s central cross-island highway is meandering and often has poor visibility. Exercise caution when driving on highways.

Please see AIT’s website for more details on  Driving in Taiwan .

Traffic Laws:  Passengers in all vehicles, including taxis, are required by law to wear seatbelts. When exiting a vehicle, you are legally required to ensure that no motor scooter, bicycle, or other vehicle is approaching from behind before opening the door. You will be fully liable for any injuries or damages if you fail to do so. Do not turn right on a red traffic signal. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit in Taiwan. The legal limit for alcohol in the bloodstream of drivers in Taiwan is 15 mg per 100 ml of blood (0.03% BAC). This limit is strictly enforced. It is useful to have proof of car insurance and proof of ownership of the vehicle. On-the-spot fines are very common for minor traffic offences in Taiwan and are fixed for each offense. You will be told where to pay the fines and within what period of time. For more serious driving offenses, you will receive a court appearance.

Standard international driving laws apply with a few exceptions:

• You must have a warning triangle in your car to use if you break down or are involved in an accident.
• You cannot turn on a red light unless indicated.
• Many drivers run red lights, especially just after they change.

In an emergency:

• If you have a problem with your car, call the number on the rental documents or attached to the windscreen of your car.
• In the event of an accident, you should call the police “110” and medical assistance “119.” Provide the police with all the important information including the type of accident, details of vehicles involved and if there are any injuries or fatalities. The second call you should make is to your insurance company.
• You will need a police report for your insurance company. While waiting for the police, take photographs of the scene and take the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses. Do not move the vehicles unless it is necessary for safety reasons.
• Police will not ask for bribes.
• Police will ask parties involved in the traffic accident to do an alcohol test. This is standard operating procedure.
• If riding a motor scooter, you must wear a helmet.

For specific information concerning Taiwan’s driver’s permits, vehicle inspection road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is cheap, convenient, and generally safe. Uber is widely available for use. Taxis and buses may swerve to the side of the road to pick up passengers with little notice or regard for other vehicles.

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information. Refer also to Taiwan’s  Road Traffic Safety Portal .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Taiwan's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Taiwan should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Taiwan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Taiwan Visa Requirements: Do you Need a Visa to Go to Taiwan?

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for at no extra cost to you.

Do I need a visa for Taiwan? How do I apply for a Taiwan visa? Which countries can apply for Taiwan e-visas or landing visas? Can I enter Taiwan visa-free?

In this article I will answer all the above questions about getting a visa for Taiwan or entering without one (visa exemption). While I strive to keep this information current, make sure to double check with the official source .

You will be happy to know that Taiwan offers visa-exemption privileges to nationals of many countries. If your passport is not on the list, though, you will need to apply according to the guidelines I’ll share below.

Table of Contents

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Taiwan?

Taiwan currently grants visa exemption (visa-free visits), to passport-holders of 65 countries . If your passport does not belong to one of these 65 countries, then you will need to apply for a visa or eVisa to enter Taiwan.

Which countries Can Enter Taiwan Visa-Free?

Holders of passports from the following countries are visa exempt. This means that if you have a passport from one of these countries, you can enter Taiwan without a visa for a stay of 15 to 90 days. The duration depends on which country you are from – see the table below.

I’ve highlighted the top countries that visit Taiwan.

* If you were born in Afghanistan, China, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Syria, or Yemen, you may still need a visa to enter Taiwan, even if you have another passport. ** Diplomatic passport holders are not eligible for visa exemption.

Visa-Free Entry Requirements

You will need the following in order to enter Taiwan under the visa exemption program:

• A passport from the above list of countries that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry to Taiwan and with at least 1-2 blank pages for stamps.
• Proof of a flight departing Taiwan before your visa-free period is up. Find the cheapest flights here .
• You may be denied visa-free entry if you have a criminal record or you have overstayed in Taiwan before.
• Visitors from some countries, such as the Philippines , are sometimes asked for proof of funds and hotel reservations for their trip before flying to Taiwan.

There is no app, QR code, voucher, application form, or payment needed for visa-free entry.

How to Enter Taiwan Without a Visa

If you are on the above list of visa-exempt countries, and you follow the above requirements, there is nothing that you need to do before entering Taiwan. Just book your flight to Taiwan , come to Taiwan, show your passport, and stay for any period up to your maximum duration.

You will only need to fill in a typical arrival card for Taiwan. You can fill in the online arrival card before your flight. Some visitors have reported that they didn’t receive the email confirmation after filling in the form, but it doesn’t matter. If you submitted the form, just present your passport at immigration, and they will see the completed form in their system. As long as you submitted the form online, you don’t need to fill in a paper one when you arrive.

You don’t have to fill in the online form. You can also just fill in the paper arrival card on the airplane, which the flight attendants usually hand out, or do it at the airport just before you go through immigration.

See here for my guides to Taiwanese currency and getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei .

Can I Extend My Visa-Free Stay in Taiwan?

Because visa exemption is not a visa, it cannot be extended . Only Taiwan visa-holders can apply to have their visas extended.

If you need to stay in Taiwan longer, you’ll have to leave and come back in, or accept the hefty fine that comes with overstaying.

For Canadian and British passport holders , there is one exception. See point #5 here for the details on how you might be able to extend your visa-free stay.

If you are entering Taiwan to teach English or for other work, I’ll discuss that further below.

What If I Overstay My Visa-Free Entry?

If you overstay a visa-free entry, or a visa entry to Taiwan, you could be fined and banned from Taiwan for a period of time.

According to recent news , Taiwan’s Executed Yuan is planning to increase these fines and period of banning. The fines could be as high as TWD 30,000 to 150,00 0 (USD 950 to 4700), and the period of banning could be up to 10 years.

In other words, don’t overstay your Taiwan visit, whether you entered visa-free or on a visa.

What if I Leave Taiwan and Come Back?

If your passport country has visa-exempt status, each time you leave Taiwan and re-enter, you will get another 90/30/14 days visa-free visit (whichever one your country gets).

There is currently no limit to how many times you can do this, and you can even leave and come back on the same day.

Which Visa Should I Get for Teaching English in Taiwan?

There are two ways to go about getting your visa for teaching English in Taiwan. The first is to get hired and arrange it before you come and the second is to just show up in Taiwan and do it from there.

If you get hired before coming to Taiwan , this school will likely apply for your work permit before you come. Once they receive this, they will instruct you to apply for a “resident visa for employment purposes” at your local Taiwan office in your country and do a health check before you come to Taiwan. After you arrive in Taiwan, they will help you to change this to an ARC (Alien Resident Card).

While this way is safer in the sense that you’ll have a job lined up before you come, and some schools only hire in this way (including public schools in Taiwan ), it is also more tedious (lots of paperwork) and potentially much more expensive. Some teachers have reported paying up to US$1000 for their health check outside of Taiwan!

If you come to Taiwan before you find a job , you can enter visa-free. You need to check how many days you can stay in Taiwan visa-free, though (see above).

If you can find a job before your visa-free period ends (for example 90 days for US, Canada, UK, NZ, Australia, Ireland passport holders), and the school can submit your work permit application before that as well, you’ll be good. You’ll also need to do a health check in Taiwan, which is easy and only costs TWD 1200.

But if you can’t find a job and have the school send in your application before this deadline, you’ll need to fly out of Taiwan and re-enter on a new visa-exempt period. Japan, Vietnam, and Hong Kong are some common places that prospective teachers fly to for doing this, with budget flights available and short flying times.

To get a work permit for teaching English in Taiwan, you will need to have a passport from Australia, Canada, South Africa, Ireland, New Zealand, Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, USA, or UK, a Bachelor’s Degree or Associate’s Degree + TEFL Certificate, and a police check from your home country.

Which Countries Need a Visa for Taiwan?

Here is a list of countries that need to apply for a visa to go to Taiwan.

Which Countries Can Apply for an eVisa?

If you have a passport from one of the above-listed of countries that need a visa for entering Taiwan, you may be able to apply for an e-Visa online, which will be much easier.

Taiwan e-Visas are valid for a single entry up to 30 days, usually for tourism or business purposes only.

Visitors with passports from the following countries are eligible for e-Visas, plus a few other cases.

You can apply for the eVisa online here (official site) or by using a 3 rd party site. It usually takes 3–7 business days for the eVisa to be processed. Once processed, you will receive it by email.

Can I Get a Visa-on-Arrival?

Only Turkey passport holders are eligible to get a free visa on arrival in Taiwan, for a stay of up to 30 days. This can only be done at Taoyuan International Airport. If you arrive at another airport, you will be given a temporary entry permit, which you will have to change to a visa at the Bureau of Consular Affairs in Taipei City .

You can also get a visa-on-arrival if you are holding an emergency/temporary passport that is valid for at least six months.

What If I Can’t Get Visa Exemption or eVisa?

If your passport belongs to a country that doesn’t have visa exemption privileges AND doesn’t allow e-Visas, you most likely will need to apply for a Taiwan visa at the nearest Taiwan embassy/mission/trade office in your country or region.

Here is a list of Taiwan embassies around the world . The applications requirements vary by country, visa type, and so on.

Taiwan Visas for Hong Kong, Macau, and China Passport Holders

If you have a passport from Hong Kong, Macau, or the People’s Republic of China (PRC), entering Taiwan is going to be a little more complicated.

Instead of a visa, you will need to apply for a special entry and exit permit for Taiwan, which are usually only issued for tour groups. China passport holders will also need to apply for a Mainland Resident Travel Permit . The number of travelers who can enter on these passports are also subject to quotas.

Hong Kong and Macau passport holders are no longer subject to the rule requiring a minimum of five people, so individual travelers are no allowed. They must apply for their entry/exit permit online here . Find more information about the application process here . PRC passport holders can find more information about how to apply here .

If you were born in Hong Kong or Macau but now have another passport, you can follow the rules of the other passport. If you were born in China, you have to live outside of China for at least four years before you can apply using the rules of your new country of citizenship.

Chinese residents of Penghu, Kinmen, or Matsu (some of the small islands of Taiwan which are close to China) can apply for a special permit to travel freely between these islands and China through specific ports.

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam Travelers

If you have a passport from Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, or Vietnam, and you meet the following, then you can apply here for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Taiwan.

• Permanent resident card for Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, any EU or Schengen country, UK, or USA
• OR a valid entry visa to one of the above countries in the last 10 years
• Passport that is valid for at least 6 months
• You’ve never been a blue collar worker in Taiwan.

Find more info about the Electronic Travel Authorization here.

Now that you’ve figured out how to get a visa for Taiwan, read about the best time to visit Taiwan !

A Travel Guide to New Taipei City, the City of Day Trips

A travel guide to hsinchu, taiwan’s silicon valley, 14 thoughts on “taiwan visa requirements: do you need a visa to go to taiwan”.

The information that you provided is awesome. I’m American and my wife and son both have dual citizenship (Taiwan & US), we plan to retire in Taiwan. What do I need to be able to stay in Taiwan, so I don’t have to travel out of the country and then back in, every 90 days?

If you’re married to a Taiwanese citizen, you can apply for a marriage ARC (Alien Resident Card) once you arrive there. It will be a bit of a process and some documents needed, so it’s best if you look that up on official sources. If the English info is lacking, ask your wife to look it up and there’s most likely better info online in Mandarin about how to do it. If you maintain the same ARC for 5 years in a row (and never leave Taiwan for more than 6 months out of 1 calendar year during that time), then you will be eligible for an APRC (permanent ARC), which will never expire, even if you leave for over 6 months.

The info you’ve provided is helpful. I am a Philippine citizen and would like to stay in Taiwan as a tourist for more than the 14 days visa-exempt duration I am given. What would I need and how would I go about doing this so I don’t have to leave Taiwan every 14 days? Appreciate your help.

Then you need to apply for a Taiwan visa from the Taiwan office in your country.

Hi Nick. Thanks for the great info. Me, my wife, and my stepson want to visit Taiwan. I’m in the process of adopting my 12 year old stepson but it’s not complete yet. The biological dad is out of the picture. Will I get any grief if I try to enter the country considering that he is traveling with only one parent listed on the birth certificate? We do have custody papers showing sole custody is with the mother. Thanks!

I’m afraid I can’t give advice about such an important immigration matter. I am not an immigration officer in Taiwan. I suggest that you contact Taiwan immigration directly at 886-2-2388-9393, during Taiwan business hours, ask for someone who speaks English, and ask them, or ask the adoption agency to make the call on your behalf.

The information that your provided is really helpful. I’m planning move to Taiwan this year. What month of year you will say could be the best to visit for?

Please see my post here: https://www.taiwanobsessed.com/best-time-to-visit-taiwan/ My personal favorites are probably October/November/April.

I hold a Philippine passport and I am a permanent resident of Canada. Can I enter Taiwan without a visa? The planned visit is in August 2024. Thanks!

As mentioned in this article, Philippines passport holders can enter Taiwan visa-free for 14 days. Residency in Canada won’t make a difference, unless you have a Canada passport, then you will get 90 days visa-free. The current police for Philippines passport holders is effective until July 2024, which you can see here. https://www.boca.gov.tw/cp-149-4486-7785a-2.html But usually, the same policy will be renewed after. If they decide to change their policy after July, it would be mentioned on that page.

hi, I hold Cambodian passport, and one of the requirements for the online visa application, having visa for countries like US, EU, Canada, New Zealand or Australia. I’ve got the EU visa approved last 4 years but I have never used it, due to the pendamic. is this still valid for the application requirements?

This question would be best to ask a Taiwan immigration officer. Please call Taiwan immigration at +886-2-2388-9393 during Taiwan office hours and ask for someone who speaks English.

I’m a US green card holder, can I enter visa free like my husband and daughter, who are US citizens?

I believe you will need to apply for a visa through the Taiwan office in America. See here: https://www.roc-taiwan.org/ussea_en/post/9186.html

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Taiwanese Passport

The Taiwanese passport allows access to 98 countries without a visa. Additionally, 61 countries offer e-visas for Taiwanese citizens. 16 countries provide visas upon arrival. However, 56 countries require Taiwanese citizens to obtain a visa beforehand.

Taiwan has a population of approximately 23.57 million people. The official name of the country is the Republic of China (ROC). The capital is Taipei. Taiwan is located in East Asia, off the southeastern coast of mainland China.

Taiwanese passports are ranked as the 30th most powerful in the world. They provide visa-free access to a number of countries, making international travel easier for Taiwanese citizens. The passport has a dark blue cover and a Taiwanese emblem in the center.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for Taiwanese passport holders are Malaysia, Palau, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Guam .

Visa free countries

So, where can Taiwaneses travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where Taiwan citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
• 🇨🇿 Czech Republic (90 days)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
• 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 Ireland (90 days)
• 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (N/A)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (Visa not required for holders of passports with National ID number only.)
• 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days, pre-arrival notifications must be made at least two weeks in advance.)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (30 days)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (90 days)
• 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (180 days)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (N/A)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• Netherlands (90 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (183 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (6 months)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇦🇼 Aruba (90 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda (6 months)
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (6 months)
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (60 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇬🇱 Greenland (90 days in 180 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (90 days. ESTA and passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (90 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (90 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇾🇹 Mayotte (90 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇷🇪 Réunion (90 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands (90 days)
• 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
• 🇵🇼 Palau (90 days)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (60 days)
• 🇹🇻 Tuvalu (90 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (31 days)
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (90 days within 180 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days. Must hold a National ID card and disembark on a nonstop flight from Taiwan. Otherwise under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA and passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (90 days within 180 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days. Must hold a National ID card and disembark on a nonstop flight from Taiwan. Otherwise under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA and passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee US$35 or tax of US$5 if not going ashore.)
• 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (90 days within 180 days. Passport with National ID number required.)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (90 days)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (30 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (60 days)
• 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 9/1/2024.

• Philippines visa free countries
• Hong Kong visa free countries
• Macau visa free countries

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Do you need a visa to visit Taiwan?

Oct 19, 2023 • 3 min read

Taiwan is relatively relaxed about visa restrictions, making it easy to visit its cities, beaches, mountains © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Whether you prefer hiking mountains, exploring temples or soaking in hot springs, Taiwan is an island of endless temptations.

Asia’s most vibrant democracy is also relatively relaxed when it comes to immigration rules, in contrast to the more onerous visa policies of China across the strait. Generally speaking, the visa requirements for entering Taiwan will depend on your nationality.

Here’s our guide to Taiwan’s entry requirements, with all the information you need on visa types and procedures.

Visa-free entry to Taiwan

Tourists from most European countries, Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, South Korea and Japan (along with a scattering of other nations) can enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan for stays of up to 90 days. Tourists from a number of other nations including Singapore and Malaysia are permitted 30 days of visa-free travel.

Tourists from most other countries will need to apply for a Visitor Visa . Citizens of mainland China are required to apply for a special type of travel permit.

All visa-exempt travelers need a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and two blank pages for the entry and exit stamps. Upon arrival, you will also need to show a confirmed travel ticket with your itinerary for departing Taiwan before the end of your visa-free travel period. 

Can you extend a visa-free stay?

In short, no, unless you are from Canada or the UK; citizens from these countries can extend their stays up to 180 days. Visa holders approved for at least a 60-day stay can extend their trip, however. Applications to extend visas can be made in Taiwan at the nearest National Immigration Agency Office . It's worth noting that a visa-free stay can't be converted into a visa stay once the trip is underway.

Study, work and visitor visas for Taiwan

If you plan to go to Taiwan to work, study or visit relatives for an extended period of time, you can apply at an overseas mission of the ROC (Republic of China, Taiwan’s official name) in your home country for either a Visitor Visa (for a single entry, and for periods of less than six months) or a Resident Visa for longer stays. Note that there is no dedicated student visa category in Taiwan. 

Visitor Visas cost approximately US$50 (this varies from country to country), while Resident Visas cost approximately US$100.

Opportunities also exist for citizens of many of the same countries covered by visa-free travel to apply for a visa under Taiwan’s Working Holidays Scheme , targeted at those between the ages of 18 and 30. For stints of up to 12 months, the scheme permits the holder to work during their stay – subject to a few restrictions, such as not remaining with a single employer for more than 3 months. 

A useful resource for all you need to know about visas for Taiwan

Your first port of call when considering any kind of travel to Taiwan should be the Consular Affairs section of the  MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) website for Taiwan. Here, you can find a list of Taiwan’s embassies and missions abroad , along with a dedicated section on  visas showing the very latest requirements and regulations (under “News and Events”). You’ll also find links to the online visa application forms you will need to fill out and either post to your nearest Taiwan overseas mission or present in person, along with the list of necessary supporting documents, depending on the visa type.

This article was first published Jul 23, 2022 and updated Oct 19, 2023.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Taiwan Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: April 18, 2024

Despite its diplomatic isolation, Taiwan remains a popular tourist hotspot for travelers from all over the world. Taiwan visa policy is uncomplicated unless you’re from Mainland China, Macau, or Hong Kong.

In this article, you will learn about Taiwan visa, its visa exemption, e-visa, and visa on arrival for tourists. I will also shed some light on the requirements for Chinese visitors.

Table of Contents

Visa policy and visa types.

Nationals from 65 countries are visa-exempt when visiting Taiwan for either 14, 30, or 90 days. 

Visa on arrival is available for Turkey free of charge.

Taiwan launched its eVisa program in 2016 and today 25 countries are eligible. Some may only get an eVisa if they’re part of a tour group.

An Online Travel Authorization Certificate instead of a visa is available for nationals of 6 countries under certain conditions and only if they have a valid or expired visa from some of the most advanced economies.

Certain special conditions are in place for passport holders on neither of these lists. Visitor visa applications can be submitted at a select few Taiwanese overseas missions.

Visitors from Mainland China (PRC), Hong Kong, and Macau must acquire prior approval from Taiwan and have an Exit and Entry Permit.

People born in Mainland China or certain high-risk countries may not be eligible for certain visas depending on their nationality.

Below is the summary of various visa types:

Visa Requirements

The following requirements apply to all visitors:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months
• A confirmed return or onward ticket via air or sea

If you’re visa-exempt, it’s highly unlikely immigration officers will ask to see your next ticket. They didn’t when I last traveled but for peace of mind, you can book an onward ticket .

Visa Exemption (VISA-FREE)

Visa exemption is issued at all airports and harbors. Depending on nationality, it is valid for either 14, 30, or 90 days.

• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia (effective until March 31, 2025)
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City
• Dominican Republic
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Philippines*

* Effective until July 31, 2024 

The validity duration starts on the day after the date of arrival. 

Visa exemptions are not extendable, except for nationals of Canada and the UK who can extend once.

Ineligibility based on place of birth

Passport holders from Belize, Eswatini, Nauru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Tuvalu are NOT visa-exempt if their place of birth in their passport is one of these countries:

• Afghanistan
• China (PRC)

Passport holders from Honduras are also ineligible for the visa exemption if their place of birth is China (PRC).

Taiwan Visa on Arrival (Landing Visa)

Only Turkey passport holders are currently eligible for a Taiwan Visa on Arrival (VOA). VOA is officially referred to as a “Landing Visa”. The visa is free of charge and valid for 30 days. 

Temporary and emergency passport holders from visa-exempt countries are also eligible to obtain VOA in Taiwan. These passport holders have to pay a visa fee of 1,600 TWD and 800 TWD handling fees.

VOA is only available at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport but it is possible to enter from another International airport and obtain the visa inside the country.

Read Taiwan Visa on Arrival for more information on requirements, documents and VOA procedures at various international airports in Taiwan.

Taiwan eVisa

Taiwan issues eVisas for tourist purposes to individual travelers from these countries:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina (Free)
• Burkina Faso
• Colombia (Free)
• Kiribati (Free)
• Kosovo (Free)
• Mauritius (Free)
• Montenegro (Free)
• Panama (Free)
• Peru (Free)
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands (Free)
• Turkey (Free; also eligible for a visa on arrival)
• United Arab Emirates.

eVisa is also available to the following countries if traveling as part of an approved tour group ;

The eVisa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue and allows 1 entry for up to 30 days. It costs 1600 TN + 46 NT processing fee (~53$), except for countries with (free) next to their names on the list above.

The eVisa is valid at all immigration checkpoints.

Read the Taiwan eVisa article for more information on eVisa requirements, documents and the application process.

Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC)

Passport holders of the following countries may be eligible for an Online Travel Authorization Certificate (OTAC) free of charge:

•  Cambodia
•  India
•  Indonesia
•  Myanmar
•  Vietnam

The conditions are that the applicant:

• Has never been employed as a migrant worker in Taiwan;
• United States
• Japan (except for Vietnam)
• Korea (except for Vietnam)
• Any EU or Schengen country
• Taiwan (except for visas marked FL, X, or P)

The OTAC is valid for 90 days for multiple entries. Each visit can be up to 14 days.

Read the Taiwan Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC) article for more information on the documents required, processing times, application process and border procedures.

Taiwan Tourist Visa

For countries not eligible for any of the options above, a tourist visa from one of Taiwan’s overseas missions remains the only option.

Officially Taiwan only has embassies in countries that recognize Taiwan (ROC) instead of China (PRC). Currently, it’s only 13 countries that recognize Taiwan. However, Taiwan’s cultural centers, trade centers, and overseas missions in most other countries effectively function as embassies.

The application procedure can be complex and lengthy. It starts with applying to one of Taiwan’s offices abroad, often followed by an interview and a request for a letter of guarantee from a Taiwanese sponsor.

For nationals of the following countries, obtaining a tourist visa for Taiwan is not possible. They are only allowed to obtain Taiwan visitor visas for purposes other than tourism such as business, family, etc. They must also have a sponsor in Taiwan.

Read the Taiwan tourist visa article for more information on the documents required, fees, processing time and application procedure.

Taiwan Transit Visa

If you don’t leave the international transit area of any airport in Taiwan, you don’t need a visa.

Taiwan does not issue transit visas that allow entry to the country past immigration.

Nationals of Hong Kong and Macau

Permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau do not need a visa to enter Taiwan but must have an Exit and Entry Permit and certain requirements:

• Were born in Hong Kong or Macau;
• Have entered Taiwan at least once as a permanent resident of Hong Kong or Macau; (and have proof if the visit was before 1983);
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region;
• British Overseas National;
• Macao Special Administrative Region.

The Exit and entry permit is

• 300 NT (~10$) if obtained on arrival;
• Free if obtained online;
• 600 NT (~20$) if NOT born in Hong Kong or Macau and applying online for the first time.

The requirements can quickly become confusing. It’s best to check online on the Official ROC Embassies and Missions Website .

Nationals of the People’s Republic of China

To travel to Taiwan, passport holders from China PRC must: 

• Have prior approval from the Taiwanese government
• Have an Exit and Entry Permit 
• Travel as part of an organized tour group subject to a quota of 14,600 visitors per day.

This is unless they have a temporary or permanent residence in Hong Kong, Macau, or a third country and reside outside of China PRC.

Additional requirements may come from the Chinese PRC government. 

It’s best to check the Taiwanese Immigration website for detailed information and conditions.

Taiwan Arrival Card

Everyone who arrives in Taiwan must complete an arrival card. You can fill out the arrival card online before arrival or at the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do i need an evisa if i am on a cruise ship.

If you’re not eligible for a visa exemption and arrive in Taiwan on a cruise ship, you should obtain a special temporary entry permit. It’s best to ask your cruise company, they will surely facilitate it.

Do I need a visa if I do not leave the transit area at the airport?

You don’t need a visa if you don’t pass immigration and only stay inside the airport’s transit zone.

How long in advance should I apply for an eVisa?

Apply at least 7 days before traveling.

Are there multiple entry visas for Taiwan?

Taiwan doesn’t issue multiple-entry visas for tourists.

What are the COVID testing and vaccination requirements for Taiwan?

You don’t need a test, or proof of vaccination to travel to Taiwan.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Fri, Sep 30, 2022 page2

What visitors should know about updated entry rules, taiwan from thursday is to reinstate visa exemptions for passport holders from 65 countries. mandatory quarantine for arriving travelers is to be lifted on oct. 13 , when restrictions on inbound and outbound tour groups are also to be lifted. the following is a list of answers to common questions regarding how the new regulations are to affect inbound international visitors.

• Staff writer, with CNA

Which passports will have visa-free entry privileges?

Eleven more countries on Thursday are to join 54 countries that were given visa-free privileges on Sept. 12. Passport holders from Japan, South Korea, Chile, Israel and Nicaragua can stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa.

Taiwan is also to resume 30-day visa-free stays for citizens of the Dominican Republic, Singapore and Malaysia.

People wait in the arrivals hall of Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport yesterday.

Passport holders from Thailand, Brunei and the Philippines are to be allowed to stay in Taiwan for 14 days visa-free.

Taiwan on Sept. 12 resumed 90-day visa-free entry for passport holders from the US, the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Monaco, North Macedonia, Romania, San Marino and nine of Taiwan’s 14 diplomatic allies: Tuvalu, Eswatini, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, the Marshall Islands, Palau, Paraguay and the Holy See.

Thirty-day visa-free visits are allowed for citizens of five other diplomatic allies: Belize, Nauru, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

How long should a passport be valid for?

With the exception of passport holders from the US and Japan, people from visa-exempt countries must have a passport that is valid for six months from the date of entry. Passports of citizens from the US and Japan only need to be valid for the duration of the planned stay.

Are there any specific groups of people from visa-free countries that are not be eligible for visa-free entry?

People born in China with Honduran passports must still apply for a visa before entering Taiwan.

Additionally, those who hold passports from Belize, Eswatini, Nauru, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Tuvalu, but whose place of birth was China, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Syria or Yemen, must also apply for a visa.

One country that was previously part of Taiwan’s visa-waiver entry program that was not included in the updated list is Russia.

Russian nationals could previously visit Taiwan for 21 days visa-free, but that program expired on July 31.

The new “3+4” quarantine policy is to be in place from Thursday until Oct. 12. What does it entail?

Arrivals are no longer to be subjected to a saliva-based polymerase chain reaction test, but will be issued four rapid tests. The first test should be taken on the day of arrival, or the first day of quarantine, with the result to be reported to a case worker via telephone, the Central Epidemic Command Center said.

The second test is to be taken on the third and last day of quarantine, while the third test is to be taken during a self-monitoring period.

The last rapid test should be taken if COVID-19 symptoms appear during quarantine or the monitoring period.

What are the rules for the four-day self-monitoring period?

Travelers during this period are to advised remain at home as much as possible. Work, buying necessities and eating out should be limited at each person’s discretion.

Travelers in the self-monitoring period must show a negative result from a rapid test taken within two days of leaving quarantine before going outside. They must also wear masks at all times when they go out, but they can remove their mask when dining out as long as social distancing measures are observed and dividers separate the individual from others.

These travelers can use public transportation during the four days.

However, if a positive rapid test result is shown and medical attention is necessary, transportation to a hospital must be via a designated COVID-19 taxi or a private vehicle.

Do visitors need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to entry?

Tour group participants require three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. Others can enter without being fully vaccinated, according to the British government’s foreign travel advice. Travelers should verify requirements with their local Taiwan representaive office before departure.

Will the “3+4” policy be applied in the same way to all arriving passengers?

No. There are separate rules for migrant workers and foreign students.

The policy is to be similar to the “7+0” policy for migrant workers. Arriving migrant workers must stay in a quarantine hotel or dormitory, with only one person per room, and are not to be allowed to go out for a seven-day period, except for an emergency situation such as seeking medical attention, the Workforce Development Agency said.

For foreign students, schools are to arrange a three-day quarantine, either at a designated hotel or dormitory. A four-day self-monitoring period is to follow, although classes cannot be attended.

What is the “0+7” policy set to be introduced on Oct. 13?

On this day, Taiwan is to end the three-day quarantine for arriving travelers, to be replaced by a seven-day self-monitoring period. Public transportation can be used if no symptoms of illness are present.

Will the “0+7” policy also apply to arriving migrant workers and foreign students?

A decision has not been made. The Workforce Development Agency said it is studying the issue, while the Ministry of Education has not made an announcement.

What is the difference between the current self-monitoring protocols and the new scheme?

There are no noteable differences. Travelers should reside in private rooms with separated bathrooms from housemates. Going outside is permitted if wearing a mask and testing negative for COVID-19 prior to leaving the premises.

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Vice President William Lai (賴清德) yesterday said that Beijing was trying to “annex” Taiwan, while China said its recent series of drills near Taiwan are aimed at combating the “arrogance” of separatist forces. The Ministry of National Defense earlier this month said that it had observed dozens of Chinese fighters, drones, bombers and other aircraft, as well as warships and the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, operating nearby. The increased frequency of China’s military activities has raised the risk of events “getting out of hand” and sparking an accidental clash, Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng (邱國正) said last week. Asked about the spurt

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Taiwan’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Taiwan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Taipei Representative Office in London or the Taipei Representative Office in Edinburgh . Entry procedures are being regularly reviewed, so may change at short notice.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Taiwan.

Epidemic prevention period

When you arrive in Taiwan, the authorities advise that you observe a 7-day self-initiated epidemic prevention period, but you no longer need a negative test result before going out. The authorities are no longer providing free rapid test kits on arrival. You can use your booked accommodation and you can move freely during the 7 days.

This self-health management scheme is provided as guidance by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), and members of the public are free to decide whether to follow it. Please consult the Centres for Disease Control website for the latest guidance.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Taiwan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can spend up to 90 days in Taiwan without a visa. You can extend this by a further 90 days once you have arrived in Taiwan. You can get more information on entering Taiwan without a visa (‘visa-exempt entry’) from the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events

If you plan to stay in Taiwan for longer than 180 days, you must have a visa before you arrive. If you stay beyond the time given on your visa, you will get a fine and risk being deported from Taiwan.

There are specific rules for naturalised British citizens born in the People’s Republic of China and holders of British National (Overseas) passports wishing to enter under the visa waiver scheme.

You should contact the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs or Taiwan National Immigration Agency for further information.

Applying for a visa

If you are in the UK and need a visa, apply at your nearest Taipei Representative Office . If you are in Taiwan, apply through the Taiwan National Immigration Agency .

Alien Resident Certificate and Alien Permanent Resident Certificate holders

If you already hold a resident certificate, you do not need a visa to enter Taiwan.

If you hold a Youth Mobility Scheme visa for Taiwan , you can apply to switch to a working visa or a visa to study a degree course at undergraduate level or higher.

Submit your application to the  Bureau of Consular Affairs  for consideration. You can then apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) at your local  National Immigration Agency (NIA) Service Center  once your application has been approved. Contact the  Bureau of Consular Affairs  or  National Immigration Agency  for further information.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Taiwan guide .   

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Taiwan . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Contact the Customs Administration for further information.

Animal products

Do not bring animal products into Taiwan without authorisation. If you are caught with any animal products, you may face a heavy fine. Customs officials have increased inspections due to concerns about African Swine Fever Virus in pork products, particularly from the People’s Republic of China.

Bringing money into Taiwan

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is higher than 100,000 New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) or 10,000 US dollars. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. Contact the Customs Administration for further information.

International bank transfers can be slow. Most of the ATMs in 7-11 stores accept international cards. Other ATMs may accept them, but not all do.

American Express, Citibank and Thomas Cook branches accept their own-brand travellers cheques. You may need your receipt as well as your passport when you cash them.

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TAIWAN TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: Still Visa-Free for Filipinos? Quarantine & Testing Needed?

Is Taiwan part of your 2023 travel plans? If so, you probably have a lot of questions brewing in your head. Is Taiwan still visa-free for Filipinos? Do I still need to undergo mandatory quarantine? What are the testing requirements? Should I bring proof of vaccination? Don’t worry. We’ll answer all these questions (and more) in this article.

Taiwan was the last destination we had visited just before the pandemic reared its ugly head and brought the world to its knees in early 2020. We even got stranded in the island for a few days! So it’s kind of apt — poetic even — that it is also our first destination in 2023, the year that we all expect things to fully go back to normal.

In fact, Philippine Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, has added one more flight to Taiwan. This is a good sign that tourism (and travel in general) is starting to get back on its feet. PAL now flies to the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) twice a day:

• PR 890 Departure: 06:25 AM Arrival: 08:45 AM
• PR 894 Departure: 5:50 PM Arrival: 8:05 PM

This may change in the future, so make sure to double-check and visit PAL’s official website for the latest schedule and fares.

So yes, things are starting to go back to normal. But what are the travel requirements when visiting Taiwan?

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Is Taiwan still visa-free for Filipino tourists?

YES. Philippine Passport holders can visit Taiwan without a visa for up to 14 days.

Filipino tourists are included in Taiwan’s visa-exempt program until 31 July 2024 .

Note that this applies to Filipinos traveling to Taiwan for leisure. A visa might still be required from those traveling to study or work, with which I’m not familiar.

What are Taiwan’s entry requirements?

While Taiwan remains visa-free for Filipino tourists, it doesn’t mean that you could simply waltz in. Here is the full list of requirements when visiting Taiwan for leisure:

• Passport , with over 6 months of validity
• Proof of accommodations , which may be hotel booking confirmation or address and contact details of your sponsor in Taiwan
• Exit ticket , which may be a return ticket to the Philippines or an onward ticket to another country
• Sufficient funds

These are the documents that the Immigration Officer might ask you to present. I say “might” because they don’t always check for these requirements. In fact, except for passports, we have never been asked to show these documents even on our last trip. They just asked to see our passports, scanned our fingerprints, and took a photo. Then they let us through.

But just because we or other people you know weren’t checked doesn’t mean that you won’t be checked, either. Our circumstances and travel times are different, and you’ll most likely be assessed by a different Immigration Officer. Hence, there’s still a good chance that you could be asked to provide these requirements. To be on the safe side, make sure you have all these documents when traveling to Taiwan. The last thing you want is to be ordered to provide these docs and you’re not able to because you don’t have them.

What does “sufficient fund” mean?

I am not sure. I don’t think they explicitly state how much is “sufficient”. Out of the many times I have traveled to Taiwan, I have never been asked how much money I have with me. That said, I’ve read online accounts from other people who have, so they do ask about it sometimes.

The only advice I can share regarding this is to make sure that you have enough to cover your expenses for the entire length of your stay. If you plan on using the full 14 days allowed in Taiwan, don’t bring only 1000 NTD because it doesn’t make sense.

Is proof of vaccination required?

NO. The Taiwan authorities will not ask for any proof of vaccination. No vaccination card or vaccination certificate is required.

That said, if you have proof of vaccination, bring it anyway. It’s always best to have it just in case rules change while you’re on the trip or if the airline asks for it regardless.

Besides, as far as I know, proof of vaccination is required when entering the Philippines, although authorities don’t always check. But again, just bring it for good measure.

Is there a quarantine and testing requirement?

There is NO testing required before or upon arrival at the airport in Taiwan. You don’t need to submit a negative test result prior to your trip. You don’t need to undergo a test at the airport.

BUT after emerging from the aircraft, just before you reach the Immigration booths, you’ll find a table with stacks of self-test kits. You should get one box. Each box contains 4 pieces of test kits.

What are these test kits for? You’re expected to do a self-test at the hotel on your first day and every 2 days since for 7 days. It’s part of Taiwan’s 7-day self-initiated preventive program.

Again, for clarity: The idea is, you should do a swab test on your own over the next seven days: one upon arrival at the hotel and another every two days.

This does NOT mean that you’ll be quarantined. You can still go outside and explore like normal. In theory, you need a negative test to go out and each test is valid for the next two days. This is why you are given four kits. It should cover your first seven days.

HONESTY SYSTEM: No one is going to check if you really did it and you won’t have to submit or report the test result anywhere. But despite this, I still highly encourage you to do a self-test. Yes, it’s uncomfortable, but it’s always best to follow the rules.

So to recap, when traveling to Taiwan:

• NO proof of vaccination
• NO pre-trip testing
• NO mandatory quarantine

Taiwan is one of the easiest places to visit these days, so if you’ve always wanted to go, bump it up to the top of your bucket list.

What if my Taiwan trip is shorter than 7 days? Am I still allowed to visit?

YES. The 7-day preventive program does NOT mean you need to stay at least 7 days in Taiwan. It only means the testing should be done over the first seven days. If your stay is shorter, then you don’t need to use all the test kits.

If you’re staying in Taiwan for only four days, then you’ll only have to do 2 tests.

If you’re staying 2 days, you only need to do one.

Is wearing masks mandatory?

The official policy is: you must wear mask indoors unless you’re eating.

At a restaurant, you should still wear a mask when getting food at the buffet table or when using the restroom. You should only remove it when you’re putting food or drinks in your mouth.

Outdoors, masks are not required at all times. There may be certain situations when it is needed, but I’m not sure what the parameters are. I just wear a mask regardless. And I’m not alone. Based on my observation, the overwhelming majority of tourists and locals in Taiwan still choose to wear masks outside.

What to do upon arrival at the airport?

We landed at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport. Here’s the arrival process as we experienced:

• After deplaning, get one box of COVID test kits. You’ll find them just before you reach the Immigration area.
• Accomplish the Arrival Card. Get one from the table in front of the Immigration counters.
• Clear Immigration check. The Immigration officer will check your passport and/or other requirements and take your photo and fingerprints.
• Claim your bags at the assigned carousel.
• Clear customs check. Make sure you don’t have MEAT products or you’ll be fined around a million NTD.

That’s it! At the Arrival Hall, you’ll find money changers and ATMs. Note that it’s extremely difficult to find money exchangers that accept Philippine pesos in the city so if you need to exchange currencies, you may do it here. Better yet, withdraw from any of the ATMs, which I think have better rates. We prefer using Bank of China, the central bank of Taiwan.

You’ll also find booths selling data SIM cards. If you purchased one via Klook, you can pick up your SIM card from the Counter 6, located at the far end of the hall. It should be to your right if you’ve just emerged from the Customs check.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Here are some of the hotels that we were able to check out:

• Hotel Cham Cham , Banqiao District. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hotel Midtown Richardson , Ximending. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• La Palais de Chine , near Taipei Main Station.
• Park City Hotel , Luzhou District. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hotel Attic , Ximending. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Taipei Hotels!

Where to book tours?

While it is possible to explore Taipei DIY-style, joining a tour has a long list of perks, especially if you’re part of a big group, you’re traveling with kids or seniors, or you simply don’t want to deal with the nitty-gritty of itinerary building. We often get DMs from people asking for tour referrals.

Our most recent Taipei trip was organized by Edison Tours , which has been in operation for decades, making it one of the most trusted and most reputable tour operators in Taipei.

If you’re solo or a small group, you could join a set tour. If you’re a bigger group, it’s best to have them customize an itinerary for you, based on your schedule and preferences. Each tour is also led by a fluent English-speaking guide, which is a very big deal because attractions in Taipei and surrounding areas are not always visually captivating. Most are historical or cultural sites that you’ll appreciate a lot better if you know the background or if you have local insights.

To see their packages or for more info, visit www.edisontours.com . If you need to get in touch with them for inquiries or requests, just tap the CONTACT US button in the upper right corner of the page.

If you prefer to book with a Philippine-based travel agency, here are some that offer Taipei tours with corresponding contact numbers and websites.

• Constellation Travels Inc. www.constellationtravels.com.ph +63956 660 0693
• Travel Warehouse Inc. www.twi.com.ph
• VIA https://ph.via.com (+63 2) 8555.9444 [email protected]
• Ark Travel Express Inc. (+63 2) 8810-4520 / (+63 2) 8528-0933 www.arktravelexpress.com
• North Star International Travel Inc. (+63 2) 3485 7272 [email protected] www.northstar-travel.com.ph
• Ricson Crown Travel & Tours [email protected] (+63 2) 8352-0797
• Iloilo Skyways Travel & Tours (+63 33) 508-0909 [email protected] www.iloiloskywaystravel.com
• Levy Travel and Tours [email protected] (+63 2) 87757436 / 85188801 / 85797215 +639178797525

Is there a Tagalog version of this article?

We have a Tagalog video version of this article.

You can listen to our discussion about Taiwan travel requirements on Spotify! Follow The Poor Traveler Podcast !

We’ll also be publishing more Taiwan-related articles in the next several weeks! If you don’t want to miss any of those, you may follow us on our Facebook page or Instagram account .

Updates Log

2023 • 7 • 11: Visa-exempt program for Filipinos extended to July 31, 2024 2023 • 1 • 31: First posted

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super informative nito Sir para samin na nagplaplan mag visit sa Taiwan Thank You po!

You’re welcome! Happy planning and enjoy your trip!

I have a 9 hours layover in Taipei so I won’t be at the hotel, what address in Taiwan should I put on the arrival card? I’m going to Japan and I must change airports in Taipei.

The flight number of your next flight (to Japan).

Hi.. saan po makikita ang source ng travel advisory ng taiwan? Base po doon sa screenshot nyo..

Yung about sa visa-exempt entry? Dito po: https://www.boca.gov.tw/fp-149-4486-7785a-2.html

Hello po.. about po sa travel requirements po if meron po pong covid test and quarantine? Planning to visit po this may…

Hi po ask ko lng need p dn po b ng invitation letter galing meco s taiwan if ang magbabakasyon kami ng anak ko salamat po

Sino po ung nag-invite?

hi once pabalik po ng pinas, need po ba na dapat may booster na or kahit 2 vaccines lng? thanks po in advance for the reply :)

Thank you po. This is very informative. Just want to ask po, how about the requirements once we get back to the Philippines if it just for leisure po? Do we still need to present the Health Insurance?

Hi Ethel, they just asked to see our vaccination card/cert and the eTravel QR code. For returning Pinoys, ‘yun lang ang hiningi.

hi what do i need if mag stay ako for about 30days? do i need visa na?

According to the official website, “for those who plan to stay for more than 14 days, they will need to apply for an appropriate visa at TECO.”

• Hello po, I’m a working student po here in Taiwan and I will be graduating this June po, my parents were planning to go here in Taiwan and mag stay po sila sa tinitirahan ko for 5 days and we will not book a hotel po, so regarding po sa Proof of accommodations, may kailangan pa po ba akong i-process sa MECO or just provide the address and contact lang po talaga? ng sponsor and may ari po ng tinitirahan dito?

Pano po pag july 27 – aug. 9 po mag stay sa taiwan? Need po ba kumuha ng visa sa teco?

Visa-exempt program has been extended to July 2024, so no need.

Good afternoon! ano po kaya mga requirements if isasama ko mother ko? Ofw po ako sa Middle East. Salamat po.

Kung pareho po kayong PH-passport holders, same pa rin naman po. Wala pa pong balita if maeextend yung pagka-visa free ng Pinoys after July 31. Kung hindi, baka may magbago.

May tanong po ako. Yung visa free ng taiwan multiple entry po ba? For example po punta po ako taiwan june 20-23 tapos babalik po ako june 30-july 3? Iba po kasi kasama ko magtravel.

Visa free traveling in Taiwan will end on July 31, 2023, what if the departure is on 31 and you’ll be back on Ph on August 5, is that okay po?!?

Hello po sir.. Asking lang po. Planning to travel this Sept in taiwan but I don’t have any idea to start.. I planning to do diy.pde po mag paturo hehe

Hi! We’ll be publishing a TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE in this blog po very very soon. And pati po sa Youtube namin, magkaka-video po kami kung paano mag-plan ng trip sa Taiwan. Subscribe po kayo para ma-alert po kayo kapag uploaded na yung video: http://www.youtube.com/thepoortraveler

Hi☺️ good day po ask lang need paba ng travel certificate kpag may bata kung anak ko nman po ?

Hi! I am planning to visit Taiwan with my 1-year old daughter this March 2024 for vacation and also to visit/see his father (filipino), studying there (we’re not married yet). I’ll be the one to pay all our expenses, am I still required to get an invitation letter from him and show it to immigration? Thanks.

To be safe, yes. Better bring one.

Is it a written letter only? Or is it a letter from MECO?

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Taiwan Passport: Visa-Free Countries

As a travel enthusiast, the first thing you need to consider to make your trips hassle-free is your passport. The Taiwan passport is a powerful travel document that ranks high on the list of the world’s most influential passports. It grants its citizens visa-free entry to over 140 countries worldwide, offering a wide range of destinations for adventurous Taiwanese tourists. In this article, we will explore the top visa-free countries for Taiwanese, visa requirements, and restrictions to help you make the most of your Taiwan passport.

Top 10 Visa-Free Destinations for Taiwanese

Taiwanese passport holders can visit over 140 countries without the need for a visa, but here are the top 10 visa-free destinations that are worth exploring:

Japan – With its rich culture, fascinating history, and delicious food, Japan is a popular destination for Taiwanese travelers. Taiwan passport holders can stay for up to 90 days visa-free.

South Korea – South Korea is another neighboring country that requires no visa for Taiwanese visitors. Enjoy the K-pop scene, visit the stunning Jeju Island, and indulge in Korean cuisine for up to 90 days.

Singapore – Singapore is a vibrant city-state that attracts millions of tourists every year. Taiwanese citizens can stay for up to 90 days visa-free and explore its many attractions, including the iconic Marina Bay Sands and Sentosa Island.

Thailand – Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and street food. Taiwanese passport holders can stay for up to 30 days without a visa.

Malaysia – Malaysia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and welcoming people. Taiwanese visitors can stay for up to 90 days without the need for a visa.

Indonesia – With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and unique culture, Indonesia is a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers. Taiwanese passport holders can stay for up to 30 days visa-free.

The Philippines – The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands with a rich history and diverse culture. Taiwanese passport holders can stay for up to 30 days visa-free and explore its many beautiful beaches and landmarks.

Turkey – Turkey is a country that straddles Europe and Asia, with a rich history and stunning landscapes. Taiwanese can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

Georgia – Georgia is a small country located in Eastern Europe that is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes, delicious cuisine, and wine. Taiwanese passport holders can stay for up to 365 days visa-free.

Panama – Panama is a Central American country that is famous for its canal, beaches, and rainforests. Taiwanese visitors can stay for up to 180 days visa-free and explore its many attractions.

Travel Abroad with a Taiwan Passport

As a Taiwanese citizen, you have the privilege of traveling to over 140 countries visa-free. However, it’s important to note that visa-free entry doesn’t mean you can stay for an unlimited amount of time. Most countries have a limit on the duration of stay, ranging from 30 to 180 days. It’s essential to check the entry requirements and restrictions of your destination country before traveling to avoid any issues at immigration.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep your Taiwan passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return, as some countries have this requirement for entry. It’s also essential to have a valid return ticket or onward travel itinerary, as immigration officers may ask for this information upon entry.

Visa Requirements for Taiwanese Tourists

While the Taiwan passport grants visa-free entry to many countries globally, there are still some destinations that require a visa for Taiwanese citizens. Some countries may offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa options, while others require a traditional embassy visa application process.

Among the countries that require visas for Taiwanese citizens are China, Russia, India, Vietnam, and Brazil. It’s essential to check the visa requirements and application procedures well before your planned travel date to avoid any issues.

How to Make the Most of Your Taiwan Passport

As a Taiwanese citizen with a powerful passport, you have the opportunity to explore the world without the hassle of visa applications. However, to make the most of your Taiwan passport, it’s essential to plan your trips well in advance and be aware of any entry requirements and limitations of your destination country.

Before booking your travel, make sure to research the entry requirements and visa policies of your desired destination. As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to have more information than less when it comes to traveling abroad.

Restrictions and Limitations for Taiwanese Travelers

While the Taiwan passport is a powerful travel document, there are still restrictions and limitations that Taiwanese travelers need to be aware of. Some countries may have travel advisories or warnings that advise against travel or specific regions. It’s important to check the travel advisory of your destination country before travel to ensure your safety.

Additionally, some countries may impose entry restrictions based on certain criteria, such as age, criminal history, or previous visa rejections. It’s crucial to check the entry requirements of your destination country before booking travel.

In conclusion, the Taiwan passport is a valuable tool for travel enthusiasts, granting visa-free access to over 140 countries worldwide. By understanding the visa requirements, entry restrictions, and limitations of your destination country, you can make the most of your Taiwan passport and explore the world with ease.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Taiwan travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: August 7, 2024 13:58 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, taiwan - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Taiwan.

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The crime rate is low in Taiwan.

Violent crime is rare.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Telephone or email scams

Foreigners have received calls or emails from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. The scammer may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve alleged administrative or customs issues.

• Don’t send money to unknown individuals
• Don’t share personal information over the phone or via email

Overseas fraud

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout Taiwan.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season. Some roads can become impassable due to heavy rain and landslides.

Motorcycle and scooter drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They are extremely reckless.

• Avoid driving or riding motorcycles in Taiwan, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist
• Be particularly careful when walking or biking
• Always use elevated walkways or pedestrian bridges whenever possible

Latest news - Directorate General of Highways

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Taiwan. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Taiwan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student visa: required Working visa: required

As a Canadian, you don’t require a tourist or business visa for stays up to 90 days. Once in Taiwan, you may extend your stay for an additional 90 days. You must place your request with the Taiwanese Bureau of Consular Affairs.

If you plan to stay in Taiwan for more than 180 days, you must obtain a visa before arrival.

Information on visas - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Health entry requirements

You may be subject to a non-invasive temperature screening upon arrival at international ports and airports.

If you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, lethargy and sore throat, you may be sent to the hospital for further checks and treatment.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers. Celebrations which include the slaughtering of animals and contact with their blood and/ or tissues may increase the risk of exposure to the virus.  

Protect yourself from tick bites and wear gloves or other protective clothing if you are in contact with the blood and tissues of  animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good. Service is available throughout Taiwan.

Medical staff may speak English at some clinics or hospitals. Up-front payment is often required before treatment.

Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Foreigners involved in legal proceedings are forbidden from leaving Taiwan until the dispute is settled.

Procedures can be lengthy and local authorities don’t accept bonds or deposits to guarantee court appearances.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or the death penalty.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications, legally available in Canada, are classified as controlled substances in Taiwan. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission.

If you attempt to bring banned medications into Taiwan without prior approval and required documentation, authorities may confiscate them. You may also be subject to heavy fines and jail sentences.

Consult local authorities to determine if you must obtain a permission to import required medication.

• Customs regulations  - Customs administration of Taiwan
• Procedures to import controlled drugs  - Taiwan food and drug administration
• Categories of controlled drugs - Laws and regulations database of Taiwan

Restricted goods

There are strict regulations regarding the importation of:

• animal products

Consult the list of restricted goods before travelling.

Customs regulations - Customs administration of Taiwan

Public defamation laws are similar to those in Canada. However, they are strictly enforced. Be mindful of what you say and write publicly, especially on the internet.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Taiwan.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Taiwan, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

Mandatory military service

You may be subject to mandatory military service if:

• you are a man between 18 and 36 born in Taiwan
• you hold or ever held a Taiwanese passport

This requirement may apply even if you enter Taiwan on your Canadian passport.

Confirm these regulations with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Canada before travelling

• Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Canada

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Taiwan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Taiwan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Taiwan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance
• Teaching English in Taiwan

English teachers are often recruited from abroad.

To work legally in Taiwan, you must have a work permit that specifically states you are permitted to accept employment.

Before accepting an offer:

• check the credibility of the prospective employer with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Canada
• ensure all terms and conditions of employment are clearly stated in the written contract

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan dollar (TWD).

Upon entering or leaving Taiwan, you must make a declaration to customs if you travel with more than USD 10 000, 100 000 TWD or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques or any other convertible assets.

Climate change 

Climate change is affecting Taiwan. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation. 

Typhoons and monsoon

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to June. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Typhoons usually occur between May and November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major typhoons.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan during this period:

• know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Weather forecasts and alerts   –  Central Weather Administration of Taiwan

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Taiwan is in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis may occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. The risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Earthquakes latest reports – Seismological Centre of Taiwan
• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Disaster Prevention in Taiwan – Interior Fire Service of Taiwan

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 110
• medical assistance: 119
• firefighters: 119

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Trade Office of Canada in Taiwan, in Taipei, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.