Online Visa Process Launching for Mainland Chinese

IMPACT – Medium

What is the change? The Taiwanese government is gradually introducing a mandatory online visa process for all nationals of the Chinese mainland traveling to Taiwan for work or business.

What does the change mean? Employers in Taiwan must apply at the National Immigration Agency (NIA) for access before using the new process. There may be processing delays during rollout of the new system.

• Implementation timeframe: In phases. First phase began Sept. 1, 2013; second phase begins Nov. 1, 2013; last phase begins Jan. 1, 2014.
• Visas/permits affected: All business and work visas.
• Who is affected: Chinese mainland nationals who intend to travel to Taiwan for business or work purposes.
• Impact on processing times: There have been delays during rollout of the new system. Allow five to six weeks for the processing of new cases.
• Business impact: Initially, processing delays may have negative impact on some businesses. However, it is hoped that eventually the online system will speed processing and benefit employers.
• Next steps: Apply at the NIA for access before using the new process.

Background:

• On Sept. 1, 2013, the new online system began accepting applications for entry and exit permits for business visitors and intracompany transferees from the Chinese mainland.
• On Nov. 1, 2013, the system will begin accepting applications for professionals from the Chinese mainland working in the industries below, whether as independent contractors or as employees affiliated with a Taiwanese company:

• Transportation
• Education
• Trade
• Agriculture

• On Jan. 1, 2014, the NIA will cease accepting paper applications. All professionals in every field and industry will be required to apply via the online system.

BAL analysis: Since processing delays will result from the online system launch, clients are advised to plan ahead. To avoid further delays, clients are advised to apply in advance with the NIA for access to the online system.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Taiwan. For additional information, please contact GlobalVisaGroup@bal.com.

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