Visa liberalization rules take effect June 1

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Taiwan will implement visa liberalization rules for several of its Asian neighbors beginning June 1. The visa waiver for the Philippines has been postponed.

What does the change mean? Beginning June 1, nationals of Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and Vietnam who have been granted a visa to Taiwan within the past 10 years (not including labor visas) may apply for multiple-entry travel authorization certificates online. A similar pilot program that applies to nationals of Brunei and Thailand has been extended until July 31, 2018. Also beginning June 1, business travelers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will become eligible to apply for e-visas if recommended by the local office of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council.

• Implementation time frame: June 1. The implementation date for the Philippine visa waiver is expected to be announced by September.
• Visas/permits affected: Visa waiver.
• Who is affected: Nationals of Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and Vietnam.
• Business impact: Business visits are permitted under the visa waiver.
• Next steps: Eligible nationals must complete the application form on Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency website.

Background: The visa liberalization is part of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s strategy to fortify relations with the nation’s southeast Asian neighbors. Philippine nationals remain eligible for the travel authorization certificate or e-visa for short visits or tourism. Taiwanese officials announced the delay of the visa-free program for the Philippines so they can complete administrative procedures and interagency coordination.

BAL Analysis: Taiwan’s easing of visa requirements is aimed at facilitating business travel, strengthening economic ties and encouraging investment with several of its regional Asian neighbors. Philippine nationals should continue to apply for a travel authorization certificate or e-visa for short visits, or they may rely on a previous visa (excluding labor visas) to apply for a 90-day, multiple-entry 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.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.