Planning a trip to Taiwan? One of the most important things you need to consider is obtaining a visa. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting a visa for Taiwan travel.
Do You Need a Visa For Taiwan?
Before you apply for a Taiwan visa, you need to determine whether you actually need one. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry or a visa waiver program. As of 2021, citizens from the following countries are eligible for visa-free entry into Taiwan:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
If you hold a passport from any of these countries, you can stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days or engage in activities that are not allowed under visa-free entry, you will need to apply for a visa.
Types of Taiwan Visas
There are several types of Taiwan visas you can apply for, depending on the nature of your visit. Here are the most common ones:
Visitor Visas
If you are visiting Taiwan for tourism, visiting friends or family, attending conferences or exhibitions, or other non-business purposes, you will need to apply for a visitor visa. This visa allows you to stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days. You will need to provide a copy of your passport, a recent passport-sized photo, and an itinerary of your trip.
Business Visas
If you are traveling to Taiwan for business purposes, such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or conducting market research, you will need to apply for a business visa. This visa allows you to stay in Taiwan for up to 60 days. You will need to provide a letter of invitation from the Taiwanese company you are visiting, proof of your current employment, and evidence of your financial capacity.
Student Visas
If you are planning to study in Taiwan for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a student visa. You will need to provide a letter of acceptance from a Taiwanese educational institution, proof of your financial capacity, and a health certificate.
How to Apply For a Taiwan Visa
The application process for a Taiwan visa varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Here are the general steps:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before you can apply for a Taiwan visa, you will need to gather the required documents. These may include:
- Passport
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Application form
- Proof of travel arrangements
- Proof of financial capacity
- Letter of invitation or acceptance
- Health certificate
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered the required documents, you can submit your application. You can apply in person at a Taiwanese embassy or consulate in your home country, or through an online application system. Make sure you submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date.
Step 3: Wait for Visa Processing
After you submit your application, you will need to wait for visa processing. The processing time varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Step 4: Collect Your Visa
If your visa application is approved, you will need to collect your visa from the embassy or consulate where you applied. Make sure you bring your passport and any other required documents with you.
Conclusion
Getting a visa for Taiwan travel may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process. Remember to apply well in advance of your intended travel date, and make sure you have all the required documents.
