How to Apply for a Taiwan Tourist Visa for Foreign Residents in South Korea

Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a Taiwan Tourist Visa from South Korea

Taiwan, an enchanting island nation renowned for its bustling cities, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage, attracts travelers from around the globe. While citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan, there are several nationalities that require a visa in advance to visit. If you are a foreign resident in South Korea who needs a visa, understanding the application process is crucial for ensuring a successful trip. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough for applying for a Taiwan tourist visa as a foreign resident in South Korea.

Applying for a Taiwan Tourist Visa from South Korea

General Guidelines: Foreign residents in South Korea holding an Alien Registration Card (ARC) valid for at least six months are eligible to apply for a Taiwan tourist visa. However, G1 visa holders are excluded from this eligibility. Visa requirements and processes may vary based on your nationality and the type of visa you hold, so it is essential to verify the specific conditions that apply to your case. To avoid any misunderstandings, contacting the Taiwan Embassy or Consulate in South Korea for clarification is highly recommended.

Note: Visa rules often change, so before applying for a visa by following this guide, it is advisable to contact the relevant embassy or consulate office for the most up-to-date information.

Taiwan Embassy Contact Information:

• Phone: +82-2-399-2780
• Email: [email protected]

Required Documents for Taiwan Tourist Visa

Ensure you prepare all the following documents accurately and thoroughly to avoid delays:

1. Visa Application Form:
   • Complete the application online via the Taiwan Embassy website.
   • Forms must include a barcode; handwritten forms will not be accepted.
2. Employment Certificate (재직증명서):
   • Verifies your current employment status.
   • Must be issued within one month of the application date.
   • If required, translate it into English or Chinese.
3. Flight Ticket Reservation / Round-Trip Ticket:
   • Provide a confirmed flight reservation or round-trip ticket.
   • Reservations are acceptable if the ticket has not yet been purchased.
4. Hotel Booking:
   • Book accommodations via platforms like Agoda.com with free cancellation options.
   • After the visa is issued, you can modify your booking if necessary.
5. Travel Plan:
   • Prepare a simple, typed itinerary detailing your planned activities and duration of stay.
6. Alien Registration Card (ARC):
   • Provide a copy of both sides of your ARC card.
   • Ensure your ARC is valid for at least three months after returning to South Korea.
7. Passport with Photocopy:
   • Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
   • Include at least two blank pages.
8. Passport Photos:
   • Submit two recent passport-sized photos with a white background, taken within the last six months.
9. Bank Statement:
   • Provide a bank statement showing a minimum balance of 5 million KRW to prove sufficient funds.

Note: All documents must be in English. If any documents are in another language, they must be translated into English by a certified translator before submission.

Application Submission

Where to Submit: Bring all required documents to the Taiwan Consulate in Seoul. The Chinese Visa Center does not handle Taiwan visa matters, unlike those for Macau and Hong Kong.

• Taiwan Embassy Address:
  149 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Gwanghwamun Building, 6th Floor).

Directions to the Embassy:

• By Subway: The best and easiest way to visit Taiwan embassy in seoul to ride on metro Line 5 and then get off at Gwanghwamun Station then take exit through Exit 5. The building is within walking distance. Look for Gwanghwamun Buildding.

Taiwan tourist Visa Fee:

Taiwan tourist visa is KRW 60,000 for single entry. The visa fee is payable in cash (non-refundable). The Taiwan Consulate in seoul does not accept credit cards, debit cards, or online transfers for visa payments, so make sure to bring the exact amount in cash to pay the Taiwan visa fee.

Embassy 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 for a Successful Application

1. Original ARC Card Required:
   Applicants must bring their original ARC card for identity verification during the submission of their application. They need to verify the applicant in parson.
2. Passport Collection:
   • You can collect your passport in person.
   • If someone is collecting it on your behalf, they must present the receipt provided during the application submission.
3. Processing Time:
   • The processing time typically takes 3–7 business days.
   • You will receive a receipt with the collection date upon submission.
4. Postal Applications Not Accepted:
   • The Taiwan Embassy does not accept postal applications, so all submissions must be done in person.

Key Tips for a Smooth Application Process

1. Double-Check Requirements:
   • Ensure all documents meet the embassy’s guidelines to avoid delays or rejection.
2. Translation Needs:
   • Some documents, such as the employment certificate, may need to be translated into English or Chinese.
3. Early Submission:
   • Apply at least two weeks before your intended travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.
4. Respect Embassy Hours:
   • Arrive during the specified operating hours for both submission and collection to avoid inconvenience.
5. Keep Copies:
   • Maintain photocopies of all submitted documents for your personal records.
6. Prepare Exact Change for Fees:
   • Bring exact cash to pay the visa fee, as card payments are not accepted.

Additional Information for Foreign Residents in South Korea

• Eligibility for Multiple-Entry Visas:
  • If you plan to visit Taiwan frequently, inquire about the requirements for a multiple-entry visa. This option is ideal for those who need to travel frequently for leisure or family visits.
• Travel Insurance:
  • Though not mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected events during your trip.
• Emergency Contacts in Taiwan:
  • Keep a list of emergency contact numbers in Taiwan, including local embassy details, in case of any issues during your stay.

The best and cheapest Hotel recommendation’s for Taiwan

• Beautiful Travel 2-Women’s Pavilion [Taipei Main Station] – starting from 10usd per night
• FC Hostel-Ruifang Station – starting from 12usd per night
• WORK INN TPE – starting from 14usd per night
• Taipei Travelers International Hostel – starting from 15usd per night
• C U Hotel – starting from 16usd per night

Why Visit Taiwan?

Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers:

• Explore the bustling night markets in Taipei for street food and shopping.
• Visit scenic spots like Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan National Park.
• Immerse yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage by exploring ancient temples and museums.
• Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Taiwanese people while discovering their unique traditions.

While the Taiwan tourist visa process from South Korea is straightforward, following this guide will help you prepare thoroughly and avoid unnecessary delays. Always confirm specific requirements with the Taiwan Embassy before applying. With proper planning, you can focus on enjoying Taiwan’s stunning culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

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