Taiwan is a popular destination for travelers. It’s modern, safe, and filled with incredible food and scenery. But before you pack your bags, you need to know what kind of visa (if any) you need to visit. Here’s a guide to help make sense of the visa policies for Taiwan.
Visa-Exempt Countries
If you’re a citizen of certain countries, you won’t need to apply for a visa to enter Taiwan. You can simply book your flight and go. However, make sure you check how long you’re allowed to stay because the length of stay may vary by nationality.
Here are some of the countries that are visa-exempt:
- United States (90 days)
- Canada (90 days)
- United Kingdom (90 days)
- Australia (90 days)
- New Zealand (90 days)
- Most EU countries (90 days)
- Japan (90 days)
- South Korea (90 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
- Malaysia (30 days)
Always check with the official sources before traveling because visa rules can change.
Types of Visas for Taiwan
If you’re not from a visa-exempt country, or if you plan to stay longer than the permitted time, you’ll need to apply for a visa. Taiwan offers different types of visas based on why you’re visiting.
Tourist Visa
The tourist visa is for people visiting Taiwan for sightseeing, visiting friends, or doing other non-business activities. It usually allows for a stay of up to 90 days, but it can vary depending on the country you’re from.

You can apply at the nearest Taiwan embassy or representative office. You must have a valid passport, a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, and sometimes proof of sufficient funds or an onward ticket.
Business Visa
If you need to work or conduct business activities in Taiwan, you’ll need a business visa. The requirements are similar to the tourist visa, but you’ll also need an invitation letter from a Taiwanese company or institution.
Working Holiday Visa
This visa is available to citizens of specific countries who are between the ages of 18 and 30. It allows travelers to work temporarily while they travel and explore Taiwan. It’s a great option if you want to stay longer and experience more of the local culture.
To apply for a working holiday visa, you’ll need to be from an eligible country such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and a few others. You’ll need financial proof you can support yourself, and in some cases, you’re required to have a return ticket.
Applying for a Visa to Taiwan
If you need a visa for Taiwan, the process is straightforward for most travelers. You can either apply in person at a Taiwan embassy or consulate or apply online (for select visa types like the eVisa).
Visa Application Process (In-Person)
Here are the main steps you need to follow to apply for a visa at the embassy:
- First, check the nearest Taiwan visa-issuing authority, usually a Taiwan embassy or representative office.
- Fill out the visa application form, which you can usually find on the embassy’s website.
- Prepare your documents, including passport-sized photos, your passport, proof of financial means, and your return flight details.
- Submit the application and pay the visa fee (fees vary by country).
- Wait for your visa. Processing times usually take around 5-7 working days, but it can be longer depending on where you apply.
eVisa (Electronic Visa)
Some nationalities are eligible to apply for Taiwan’s eVisa, an electronic visa that simplifies the entire application process. Everything can be done online, and you don’t need to visit an embassy.

To apply for an eVisa, you’ll need to:
- Go to the official eVisa application website.
- Fill out personal information and travel details.
- Upload the necessary documents, such as your passport and a recent photograph.
- Pay the visa fee online (it’s usually around $50 USD).
- Wait for approval, which usually takes around 3-5 working days.
When you arrive in Taiwan, you just need to show the electronic visa (print it out or save it on your phone) along with your passport.
Visa Extensions in Taiwan
If you’ve already entered Taiwan and want to stay longer than initially planned, you may be able to apply for a visa extension. Not all visas are extendable, so first check the visa type you hold.
For tourist visas, you will need to head to the National Immigration Agency in Taiwan and submit your extension request. You’ll need to explain why you want the extension, provide proof of onward travel, and have sufficient financial resources.

Visa-On-Arrival for Taiwan
Travelers from certain countries can apply for a landing visa (sometimes called a visa-on-arrival) when they arrive in Taiwan. Currently, travelers from certain South Asian countries and some other specific regions are allowed to apply for this.
To get a landing visa, you need to have a passport with at least six months of validity, a return flight ticket, and in some cases, proof of accommodation or bank statements. You can apply for it at the airport upon arrival. However, the landing visa is only valid for up to 30 days and can’t be extended.
Special Cases and Exceptions
There are some special cases where travelers may be subject to different visa rules. For instance:

- People from Hong Kong and Macau can stay in Taiwan without a visa for 30 days (but longer stays might need approval).
- Chinese citizens face more restrictions and need to apply for specific permits either for tourism, family visits, or business.
- Residents of some Pacific island countries or smaller nations might need to apply for a visa even for short stays, so it’s important to check the official travel pages for your situation.
Practical Application Tips
Before applying, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Always double-check visa requirements close to your departure date. Visa rules can sometimes change suddenly.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date. Some countries have been denied entry for short passport validity.
- Print out your visa (if you’re using an eVisa) just to be safe.
- If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Taiwan representative office for more information.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Taiwan is relatively easy when it comes to visas. A lot of countries are visa-exempt, and if you do need a visa, the process is straightforward. As long as you follow the steps and stay ahead of any paperwork, you’re going to enjoy your time exploring this beautiful island.
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