THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has begun implementing a one-year visa-free entry policy for Taiwanese passport holders, effective July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
This initiative, ordered by President Bongbong Marcos Jr., aims to boost tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties with Taiwan, reciprocating Taiwan’s existing visa-free privilege for Filipinos.
Under the new policy, Taiwanese citizens are permitted visa-free stays of up to 14 days, which cannot be extended or converted into other visa types.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado assured the public that appropriate procedures are in place to ensure the smooth arrival and processing of Taiwanese tourists.
The policy is expected to significantly increase the number of Taiwanese tourists visiting the Philippines, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.
In 2024, the BI recorded 235,674 arrivals from Taiwan. The government hopes this visa-free arrangement will further enhance the already strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
metrosundaily
