Taiwan extends trial visa-free exemption for Filipinos for one year

July 12, 2018

Taiwan on Thursday announced its trial visa exemption for Filipinos has been extended for another year, its representative office in Manila said.

Visa-free entry for Filipinos will continue until July 31, 2019 and will be reviewed for further extension, according to a statement by the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO).

"This visa-free privilege is a reflection of Taiwan’s goodwill and friendship towards all Filipinos under the 'New Southbound Policy' which aims to build stronger bilateral relations and closer people-to-people connectivity between Taiwan and the Philippines," said Michael Peiyung Hsu, Taiwan’s Representative to the Philippines.

Manila and Taipei have no formal diplomatic ties in deference to the One-China policy. Taiwan is represented by TECO, which acts as its de-facto embassy in the country.

To qualify, a Filipino visa-free visitor must have

1.    An ordinary/regular passport with remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry ( Diplomatic & official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment) ;

2.  A return ticket or a ticket for the traveller's next destination and a visa for that destination if it is required;

3.  No criminal record in Taiwan

4.  A proof of accommodation, such as booking or host/sponsor’s contact information /or arrangements of tour, travel, visit, events and meeting. DMS