TAIPEI: Taiwan has extended its visa-free entry initiative for Filipino travelers and tourists from Southeast Asian countries until July 2025, here on Thursday.
As per the details, the decision is aimed at strengthening the country’s tourism sector, as announced by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA).
According to the new directive, citizens of the Philippines, Brunei and Thailand will be able to enter the country without a visa and a maximum stay of 14 days will be allowed.
Under the program, Filipino tourists are required to demonstrate proof of accommodation booking, contact details of their host or sponsor, and sufficient travel funds upon entry into Taiwan.
It should be noted that Filipino ship or aircraft crew members or service personnel intending to report for duty are ineligible for visa-free entry privileges.
Taiwan also revealed the extension of its project to ease visa regulations for high-level group tourists from Southeast Asian countries until December 31, 2025; The Travel Authentication Certificate (TAC) scheme for Southeast Asians will also remain operational as part of the fresh measures.
The decision to extend the visa-free concessions was made after a thorough review by Taiwanese agencies, with the aim of maintaining the positive momentum in domestic tourism. Statistically speaking, Taiwan welcomes 315,000 Filipino travelers in 2023, and the Taiwan Tourism Administration aims to double that number in the current year.