UPDATE: In case you missed it, Filipinos can now travel to Taiwan visa-free up until July 31, 2019! Taiwan’s visa-free travel program has been extended another year.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office has already made official that we,the Philippine nationals, who plan to visit Taiwan for the purpose of tourism, visiting relatives, attending functions or events, can enjoy VISA FREE entry to Taiwan, for a duration of stay up to 14 days.

According to Taipei Economic and Cultural Office(TECO), a Filipino visa-free visitor must meet the following requirement to Taiwan Immigration upon arrival:

 

1. A regular Philippine passport with remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry (diplomatic & official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment);
2. A return ticket or a ticket for the traveler’s next destination and a visa for that destination if it is required;
3. No criminal record in Taiwan;
4. A proof of accommodation (hotel) booking or host/sponsor’s contact information or arrangements of tour, travel, visit, events and meeting, etc.

Effortless na, diba?  However, this visa-free access will have a nine-month trial period until July 31, 2018. Kaya behave tayo dun mga bes, ha? wag mag J-walk, wag mag drugs, and landi responsibly!

 

For travellers intending to stay for more than 14 days, or for studying, working, employment, and other activities, you are still required to obtain appropriate visas before entering Taiwan.

For first time Pinoy travellers however, I personally recommend you to bring other supporting documents that may be asked by the Philippine Immigration before you can leave the country. Yes bes, it happens! Pwede ka pa rin hindi makalipad because the Ph immigration might find your travel plans to Taiwan questionable. As such, don’t forget to bring your company ID and certificate of leave pa din with complete details on approved date of  absences; and if possible, state the declared salary.  The purpose of this is to inform the Ph immigration officer that you have a stable work/living to return to here in our country, and that becoming a possible TNT in Taiwan is not your option. Panigurado lang. If the officer does not ask for these documents, then good! At least you were prepared. =)

Anyways, here’s a teaser vlog i prepared from my trip to Taipei last week. More details and tips coming soon.