Philippines to Taiwan: Travel Requirements, Visa-free Entry, Quarantine, Etc.
Taiwan is reopening under a visa-free travel scheme to select countries starting September 12.
by Ina Louise Manto | September 09, 2022
Being just a 2.5-hour flight away from the Philippines, Taiwan is a favorite Pinoy travel destination. It’s an ideal international country to visit especially when you’re on a budget: there are plenty of free things to do, affordable stays, natural attractions, tourist spots, and most importantly, incredible food. If you’re planning to head to Taiwan soon, here’s everything you need to know:
Is Taiwan open to tourists?
Yes, Taiwan is reopening its international borders for tourists starting September 12. According to Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), the gradual reopening of the country’s borders is to promote social and economic exchanges. In addition, a cap of 50,000 arrivals will be allowed weekly and the ban on group tours remains.
However, visa-free travel for Filipinos is temporarily suspended. Meaning that Pinoys cannot enter the country as tourists yet.
Who can travel from the Philippines to Taiwan?
While Filipinos who wish to fly to Taiwan for tourism or leisure purposes will have to wait, the following individuals or purposes for travel will be allowed:
- Citizens
- Visiting relatives (relatives in Taiwan must be R.O.C. (Taiwan) nationals or valid Alien Resident Certificate holders)
- Joining family, for foreign spouses and minors
- Study for a formal degree or exchange program
- Studying Mandarin
- Volunteer work
- Religious work
- Employment, business visit, fulfilling contractual obligations, or investment
- Study of religious doctrine
- International exchanges
- Internship
- Working Holiday Scheme (Youth Mobility Programs)
- Emergencies, and on humanitarian grounds, and other cases given special approval by the CECC
Travelers for these purposes may apply for a special entry permit (visa) as of July 27, 2022. Find more information here.
Do you need a visa to enter Taiwan?
As of writing, visa-free entry to Taiwan for Filipinos is temporarily suspended. Taiwan’s reopening will follow a visa-free entry scheme, which means citizens of its 14 diplomatic allies are only allowed to enter. This also includes citizens from the US, Australia, Europe, New Zealand, and Canada. See the full list here.
Citizens eligible under the visa exemption program may stay in Taiwan for up to 30 to 90 days. The duration starts from the day after arrival.
If you’re a Filipino traveling for purposes other than tourism, you may apply for a special entry permit visa here.
Requirements to travel from the Philippines to Taiwan
Those eligible for travel to Taiwan need to prepare the following:
- Passport with remaining validity of at least six months as of the date of entry
- Confirmed return air/sea ticket of air/sea ticket and a visa for the next destination (if it applies), and a confirmed seat reservation of flight departure
- Holders of the Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, and Russia passports must have proof of accommodation booking, sufficient travel funds, and a host or sponsor’s contact information
- Online immigration arrival card, to be accomplished before arriving in Taiwan
Taiwan Quarantine Rules
International travelers have to undergo a mandatory three-day quarantine and an RT-PCR test upon arrival in Taiwan. Travelers also have to observe themselves for four days.
Current Taiwan COVID situation
For more up-to-date information, don’t forget to visit the following pages:
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