If you are a Sri Lankan citizen planning to travel to Taiwan, it is essential to know the visa requirements and application process. Taiwan’s visa policy differs depending on the traveler’s nationality, so it is crucial to understand the specific requirements for Sri Lankan citizens. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to obtaining a Taiwan visa for Sri Lanka.
Do Sri Lankan Citizens Need a Visa for Taiwan?
Yes, Sri Lankan citizens require a visa to enter Taiwan. However, Taiwan has implemented a visa exemption program for Sri Lankan citizens who meet certain requirements. If you are not eligible for a visa-free entry, you will need to apply for a Taiwan visa.
Types of Taiwan Visas for Sri Lankan Citizens
There are several types of visas available for Sri Lankan citizens who wish to travel to Taiwan:
- Tourist Visa
- Visitor Visa
- Business Visa
- Student Visa
- Work Visa
Each visa type has different requirements, so it is crucial to choose the right one for your purpose of travel.
Tourist Visa for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you are planning to visit Taiwan for tourism purposes, you can apply for a tourist visa. The requirements for a tourist visa are:
- A valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months of validity
- A completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Taiwan
The processing time for a tourist visa is approximately five working days, and the visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
Visitor Visa for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you are planning to visit Taiwan to visit family or friends, you can apply for a visitor visa. The requirements for a visitor visa are:
- A valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months of validity
- A completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of relationship with the person you are visiting
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Taiwan
The processing time for a visitor visa is approximately five working days, and the visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
Business Visa for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you are planning to visit Taiwan for business purposes, you can apply for a business visa. The requirements for a business visa are:
- A valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months of validity
- A completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of business activities in Taiwan, such as an invitation letter from a Taiwanese company
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Taiwan
The processing time for a business visa is approximately five working days, and the visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Student Visa for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you are planning to study in Taiwan, you can apply for a student visa. The requirements for a student visa are:
- A valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months of validity
- A completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- An acceptance letter from a Taiwanese educational institution
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Taiwan
The processing time for a student visa is approximately five working days, and the visa is valid for the duration of your study program.
Work Visa for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you are planning to work in Taiwan, you can apply for a work visa. The requirements for a work visa are:
- A valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months of validity
- A completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- A work permit issued by the Taiwanese government
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Taiwan
The processing time for a work visa is approximately five working days, and the visa is valid for the duration of your work permit.
How to Apply for a Taiwan Visa for Sri Lanka
To apply for a Taiwan visa, you need to follow these steps:
- Download and complete the visa application form from the website of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sri Lanka.
- Gather all the required documents for your visa type.
- Submit your visa application and supporting documents to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sri Lanka.
- Pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the visa type and processing time.
- Wait for your visa to be processed. The processing time varies depending on the visa type and your individual circumstances.
- Collect your visa from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sri Lanka once it has been approved.
Visa-Free Entry for Sri Lankan Citizens
If you meet any of the following conditions, you may be eligible for visa-free entry to Taiwan:
- You hold a valid visa or permanent resident card for the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Australia, or New Zealand.
- You hold a valid resident card for Hong Kong or Macau.
- You have been issued a Taiwan eVisa in the past two years.
If you are eligible for visa-free entry, you can stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days. However, you must have a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Taiwan.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Taiwan visa for Sri Lanka may seem like a daunting process, but it is relatively straightforward as long as you follow the correct steps and provide all the necessary documents. Make sure to choose the right visa type for your purpose of travel and plan ahead to ensure that you have enough time for your visa to be processed.
