COVID-19: Government implements visa extension, overstay policy

IMPACT – HIGH

The government has implemented an extension policy for visa holders who cannot leave Taiwan owing to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Key Points:

• Travelers who entered Taiwan before March 21 on visitor visa, landing visa or visa waiver, and who have not overstayed their visa, are granted an automatic 30-day extension.
• The National Immigration Agency has implemented the Expanded Overstayers Voluntary Departure Program, which offers penalty relief measures to foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa and turn themselves in between March 20 and June 30.

Additional information: For the automatic visa extension the total period of stay cannot exceed 180 days. Penalty relief measures for those who have overstayed their visa but turn themselves in include no detention or entry ban and only the payment of a minimum fine.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should bear in mind that the government may change or adjust the visa extension policy. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

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