Taiwan extends visa-free program for Pinoys

The number of Taipei and Manila’s two-way visitors hit a record high in 2017 when Filipino travelers going to Taiwan reached 290,784 and the Taiwanese visitors to the Philippines reached 236,777.(shutterstock)

MANILA — The visa-exemption program for Filipinos is officially extended until July 31, 2019, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) announced Thursday.

The move was an extension of the visa-free trial period and will be subject to be reviewed until it lapsed next year.

In a statement, new TECO representative to the Philippines Michael Peiyung Hsu said the initiative “will surely enhance” both parties’ friendship and further strengthen their multifaceted cooperation.

At the same time, he appealed for a reciprocation, so as to attract more Taiwanese tourists and businessmen to visit the country.

The number of Taipei and Manila’s two-way visitors hit a record high in 2017 when Filipino travelers going to Taiwan reached 290,784 and the Taiwanese visitors to the Philippines reached 236,777.

Once considered, Hsu assured this will produce a positive impact on Taipei and Manila’s areas of partnership, particularly in tourism, investment, trade, education, culture, agriculture, and fisheries.

“It will be a significant milestone in the bilateral win-win partnership and (will) also enhance the friendly ties and mutual benefits between Taiwan and the Philippines,” he said.

In availing the visa-free program, Filipino applicants must have no criminal records in Taiwan.

He/she is also required to have an ordinary passport with remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry; a return ticket; and a proof of accommodation booking or the sponsor’s contact information for tour, meetings and events arrangements; and lastly proof he/she has no criminal records or other records of misconduct in Taiwan.

Exempted from the privilege are those with diplomatic and official passport holders. For more information about Taiwan (ROC) visas, interested applicants may visit the TECO website.