Visa Requirements for Taiwanese Citizens

Taiwanese citizens can visit 145+ countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival in 2025. Major visa-free destinations include Japan (90 days), South Korea (90 days), United States (90 days with ESTA), United Kingdom (6 months), all 29 Schengen countries (90 days), Canada (6 months with eTA), Australia (90 days with ETA), New Zealand (90 days), Singapore (30 days), Malaysia (30 days), Thailand (30 days), and the Philippines (30 days). Taiwan's passport ranks among the top 35 worldwide for travel freedom.

Yes, Taiwanese citizens must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling to the United States. The ESTA costs $21 USD (approximately NT$670) and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. ESTA allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. Applications are processed online through the official CBP website, typically approved within minutes to 72 hours.

Taiwanese citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. The eTA costs CAD $7 (approximately NT$160) and is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires. Most applications are approved within minutes. The eTA allows multiple entries and stays of up to 6 months per visit for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

No, Taiwanese passport holders can travel to all 29 Schengen countries visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This includes popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and Greece. No registration or travel authorization is required. However, travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen area.

Taiwanese citizens need advance visas for approximately 35 to 40 countries. Notable destinations requiring visas include: China (requires Taiwan Compatriot Permit), Russia (tourist visa: $160 USD/NT$5,100), India (e-Visa: $25 USD/NT$800), Brazil (visitor visa: $80 USD/NT$2,550), Vietnam (e-Visa: $25 USD/NT$800), and several African nations. Cuba, North Korea, and a few other countries have restricted or no entry for Taiwanese passport holders.

Taiwanese citizens enjoy very high visa approval rates, typically 90% to 95% across most destinations. This is due to Taiwan's strong passport, high economic development, and low overstay rates. For the US ESTA, approval rates exceed 95%. For countries requiring traditional visas like Russia and India, Taiwanese applicants also see favorable approval rates above 85% when applications are complete with proper documentation.

Yes, Taiwanese citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 to visit Australia. The ETA costs AUD $20 (approximately NT$410) and allows stays of up to 3 months per visit for tourism or business. The ETA is valid for 12 months and permits multiple entries. Applications are made online through the Australian Immigration website or the Australian ETA app, with most processed within minutes.

Taiwanese citizens cannot use a regular visa to enter Mainland China. Instead, they must obtain a Taiwan Compatriot Permit (台胞證/Taibaozheng). Single-entry permits can be obtained at some Chinese ports of entry, while 5-year multiple-entry permits should be applied for in advance through authorized travel agencies in Taiwan. The 5-year permit costs approximately NT$1,700 to NT$2,500 depending on processing speed and agency fees.

For visa-free travel, Taiwanese citizens typically need: a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, proof of onward or return travel, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds. Some countries like the US, Canada, and Australia require advance electronic authorizations (ESTA, eTA, ETA). For countries requiring visas, additional documents include passport photos, completed application forms, bank statements, employment verification, and travel itinerary. Always check specific country requirements before travel.