Taiwan to extend visa-free status to the Philippines Nov. 1

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Taiwan will launch a pilot program Nov. 1 to provide visa-free entry for Philippine nationals.

What does the change mean? Once the plan takes effect, eligible Philippine nationals will be able to travel visa-free to Taiwan for stays of up to 14 days for business or tourism. The pilot visa-free period is set to expire July 31, 2018.

• Implementation time frame: Nov. 1 through July 31, 2018.
• Visas/permits affected: Visa waivers.
• Who is affected: Philippine nationals traveling to Taiwan for short-stay business or tourism.  
• Impact on processing times: The change will save Philippine nationals the time it takes to apply for and receive a visa before travel.

Background: Taiwan has liberalized its visa policies for several Asian and Latin American countries in recent months. Taiwanese authorities recently announced they would extend visa-free travel to Philippine nationals, and subsequently said a trial visa-free travel period would begin Nov. 1. The visa waiver will be available to Philippine nationals who hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from their date of entry, proof of a return ticket or ticket for an onward destination, a clean criminal record and proof of housing accommodations, or details of a tour or of an event or meeting they will be attending.

BAL Analysis: Taiwan’s easing of visa requirements for the Philippines and other countries is aimed at facilitating business travel, strengthening economic ties and encouraging investment, especially with its neighbors in Asia. While the waiver will benefit a number of Philippine nationals, those who intend to stay more than 14 days will still be required to obtain the appropriate visa.

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

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