Philippines Grants Visa-Free Entry to Taiwanese Tourists Starting July

PCI

Taiwan has long pushed for equal treatment, saying it would help boost not just visitor numbers but also investments. (Pexels Photo)

MANILA – Taiwanese tourists can visit the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days starting July 1, a move expected to boost tourism and strengthen ties between the two countries.

The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) announced the change as part of its review of travel policies. It follows Taiwan’s decision to extend visa-free entry for Filipinos for another year, continuing a program that has been in place for over five years.

“Taiwan passport holders may enter the Philippines for tourism purposes without a visa for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days,” MECO said in a statement.

To enter visa-free, Taiwanese travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, hotel reservations, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. Those planning to stay longer or visit for reasons other than tourism must still apply for a visa.

Taiwan has long pushed for equal treatment, saying it would help boost not just visitor numbers but also investments. In 2018, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office highlighted the potential for stronger ties if both sides eased travel rules.

The policy comes at a good time. According to the Department of Tourism, Taiwan was the seventh largest source of tourists to the Philippines in 2024, with more than 213,000 Taiwanese visitors recorded.

As travel rebounds in the region, visa-free entry is becoming a key way to attract more visitors.

For the Philippines, the decision is not just about tourism—it’s about building deeper connections with a close neighbor.