Taiwan Tourist Visa Process for Foreign Residents in South Korea
Taiwan, a vibrant island nation known for its bustling cities, scenic landscapes, and rich culture, is a popular destination for travelers. If you’re a foreign resident in South Korea planning a trip to Taiwan, the visa application process is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail. This guide will walk you through the steps for applying for a Taiwan tourist visa from South Korea.
Applying for a Taiwan Tourist Visa from South Korea
General Guidelines:
Foreign residents in South Korea with an Alien Registration Card (ARC) valid for at least six months (excluding G1 visa holders) are eligible to apply for a Taiwan tourist visa. As visa requirements may vary based on nationality and visa type, it’s always a good idea to contact the Taiwan Embassy in South Korea for clarification before applying.
- Taiwan Embassy Contact Information:
- Phone: +82-2-399-2780
- Email: kor@mofa.gov.tw
Required Documents:
- Visa Application Form: Complete the application online. Forms without barcodes or handwritten entries will not be accepted. You can access the application form on the Taiwan Embassy website.
- Employment Certificate (재직증명서):
- This document verifies your current employment status.
- It must be issued within one month of the application date and, if required, translated into English.
- Flight Ticket Reservation / Round-trip Ticket:
- A confirmed flight reservation or round-trip ticket is required. Reservations are acceptable if the ticket is not yet purchased.
- Hotel Booking:
- Book accommodations through platforms like Booking.com, which often offer free cancellation options. Once the visa is issued, you can modify your booking if necessary.
- Travel Plan:
- Prepare a simple itinerary detailing your planned activities and duration of stay. A typed document outlining your travel schedule is sufficient.
- Alien Registration Card (ARC) Copy:
- Ensure your ARC is valid for at least three months after returning to South Korea. Bring the original ARC card for verification.
- Passport with One Photocopy:
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and have at least two blank pages.
- Passport Photos:
- Submit two passport-sized photos taken within the last six months with a white background.
- Bank Statement:
- Provide proof of sufficient funds with a minimum balance of 5 million Korean Won in your account.
Application Submission:
Bring all required documents to the Taiwan Embassy in South Korea:
- Embassy Address:
- 149 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Gwanghwamun Building, 6th Floor)
- Subway Directions: Take Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station and exit through Exit 5.
- Visa Fee:
- KRW 60,000, payable in cash (non-refundable).
- Operating Hours:
- Submission: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
- Passport Collection: Monday to Friday, 09:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Important Notes:
- Original ARC Card Required: Applicants must bring their original ARC card to the consulate for identity verification during the submission of their application.
- Passport Collection: When collecting the passport with the visa, anyone can pick it up on behalf of the applicant. However, they must present the receipt provided during the application submission.
- Bring cash: Please bring cash when you visit the console office, they don’t accept card.
Processing Time and Passport Collection:
- Processing typically takes 3-7 business days.
- Upon submission, you will receive a receipt with the collection date.
- Note: The Taiwan Embassy does not accept postal applications.
Key Tips for a Smooth Application Process:
- Double-Check Requirements: Ensure all documents meet the embassy’s guidelines, as incomplete applications may cause delays.
- Translation Needs: Some documents may need to be translated into English or Chinese. Verify requirements beforehand.
- Early Submission: Apply at least two weeks before your intended travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.
- Respect Embassy Hours: Plan your visit within the operating hours to avoid inconvenience.
- Keep Copies: Maintain photocopies of all submitted documents for your records.
While the Taiwan tourist visa process is generally straightforward, always confirm requirements with the relevant embassy before applying. Following these steps will help ensure a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying Taiwan’s incredible culture, landscapes, and cuisine.
