Travel to Taiwan for a change

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, Taipei Taiwan

When it comes to Filipinos planning its holiday vacation outside of the country, the countries that would pop out from their minds are Hongkong, Singapore, or South Korea mainly because of its proximity and familiarity to Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Kpop/dramas respectively.  You would rarely hear Taiwan in their travel plans which is something to be frowned upon since Taipei, Taiwan is just 2 hours plane ride away and several airlines are offering cheap airfares going in and out the country.

I had a wonderful chance to book a plane ticket to Taipei, Taiwan due to its very cheap price. I'll be honest as well, I myself had little idea what I am going to see in Formosa ( former name of Taiwan). All I know about this little country lying in the northeast of the Philippines is its close proximity to Batanes and some of its taiwan drama hits here in the country like the Meteor Garden and Hana Kimi which are very popular years ago. Before the k-dramas (korean series) rose to fame and took a huge wave here, it was Barbie Xu as San Chai and F4 group lead by Jerry Yan as Dao Ming Xi that stole the hearts of the million Filipino fans. An incredible feat for the first Asian series that started the new trend in the Philippine television which was previously dominated by Spanish drama series. It is a developed nation and considered as a province of China hence its other name - Taiwan, Republic of China. I know they are both not in good terms as Taiwan want to separate from China but China wont simply allow it due to its several interests in this successful nation.

Frequently Asked Questions 101: Taiwan Tourist Visa for Filipinos

1. Do I need a visa to go to Taiwan?

In general, Filipinos are required to have a visa when visiting Taiwan unless, you haven't worked to Taiwan as a blue-collar worker and your passport currently holds valid visas or permanent resident cards of U.S.A., Canada, Japan, U.K., EU Schengen, Australia and New Zealand. Then you will only need to register for approval at https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast . You are only allowed to stay maximum up to thirty (30) days.

For those who fail to show valid visas or permanent resident cards of the above-mentioned countries, ENTRY TO TAIWAN IS PROHIBITED.

2. What are the requirements?

1. An online Visa Application Form please access (https://visawebapp.boca.gov.tw to fill up the Form and print them out)
2. Two (2) passport size photos 1.5”x2” with white background (taken within 

the last three (3) months)

3. Passport valid for at least six months and old passport showing previous travels
4. Birth Certificate issued by NSO
5. Marriage Contract (if applicable) issued by NSO
6. Certificate of Employment 
7. Financial statements of the applicant (Bank Book or Bank Statements)
8. Traveling on BUSINESS, you must also submit:

• Certificate of Business Name Registration and SEC Registration（If owner of the company）
• Invitation Letter from Taiwan company / organization in Chinese letterhead that outlines clearly purpose of your visit and duration of your stay 
• Request letter from applicant’s company 
• Certificate of Employment  

    9. Other Supporting Documents if required.