Considering the need for and right to family reunions of R.O.C. (Taiwan) nationals and Alien Resident Certificate holders residing in Taiwan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in coordination with other government agencies, announces that starting today, April 12, foreign relatives of R.O.C. (Taiwan) nationals and valid Alien Resident Certificate holders residing in Taiwan may apply to enter Taiwan. They may submit an application for a special entry permit (visitor visa) for the purpose of visiting relatives at R.O.C. (Taiwan) overseas missions by presenting proof of relationship to R.O.C. (Taiwan) nationals or Alien Resident Certificate holders residing in Taiwan.

This arrangement comes in addition to the other purposes for entry to Taiwan currently allowed by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC)—i.e., joining family (foreign spouses and minors only), study (formal degree programs), studying Mandarin, business visits, investment, fulfilling contractual obligations, employment, emergencies, and on humanitarian grounds, and other cases given special approval by the CECC.

For details on the documentation requirements, please refer to the Bureau of Consular Affairs webpage on visitor visas for visiting relatives (boca.gov.tw/cp-158-251-e78ef-2.html). Individuals previously issued with special entry permits (visas) for visiting relatives purpose with expiry dates between May 19 and August 18, 2021, may apply, free of charge, for a new visa of the same purpose and type at the same R.O.C. (Taiwan) overseas mission. Visa-exempt entry, visa on arrival, and e-visa services remain suspended.

These regulations are subject to change and may be adjusted based on pandemic developments. (E)