Can I transit through Taiwan without a visa?

Visa-Free Transit Through Taiwan for Diplomats and Officials

Taiwan’s transit policy offers convenient visa exemptions for individuals holding specific types of passports, allowing for seamless transfers through the country. However, it’s crucial to note that these exemptions are limited to holders of standard, official, or diplomatic passports.

Documents Requiring Visas

Individuals traveling on non-standard travel documents, such as refugee travel documents or laissez-passers, will be required to obtain pre-arranged visas, regardless of the duration of their transit. This requirement applies even for brief stops in Taiwan during transit to a third country.

Visa Exemptions for Standard, Official, and Diplomatic Passports

Holders of standard, official, or diplomatic passports from a number of countries are eligible for visa-free transit through Taiwan. These include nationals of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and many European Union member states.

Conditions for Visa Exemption

The visa exemption for transit applies only under certain conditions:

• The traveler must have a valid onward ticket to a third country.
• The transit time must not exceed 90 days.
• The traveler must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date from Taiwan.

Visa Requirements for Other Documents

Travelers who do not hold one of the eligible passports will need to apply for a transit visa in advance. This can be done through their local Taiwanese embassy or consulate. The visa application process typically requires submitting a passport, application form, and supporting documents such as proof of onward travel.

Conclusion

Taiwan’s transit policy provides visa-free passage to holders of standard, official, or diplomatic passports from a select group of countries. However, individuals traveling on other types of travel documents will require pre-arranged visas for transit. It’s essential to check the specific visa requirements based on the type of travel document and nationality to ensure a smooth and hassle-free transit experience.