East Asia
Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and more
Countries
Latest Updates
South Korea drops elite degree rules for K-Tech Pass in new Type 3 track
South Korea has launched a new evaluation track for its K-Tech Pass program that prioritizes technical expertise and hiring needs over salary or degree prestige. This change allows skilled foreign professionals in advanced industries to qualify for residency based on qualitative merit rather than strict quantitative metrics.
Mongolia maintains 30 day visa free access for 34 countries through Dec. 31
Mongolia has officially extended its visa-free program for citizens of 34 nations, including most of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Travelers from these countries can continue to enter for tourism purposes for up to 30 days without a prior visa application.
South Korea waives 18,000 won C-3-2 visa fee for group tours through June 30
South Korea has extended its visa fee waiver for group travelers from China, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The program, now active through the end of 2026, aims to lower entry costs for organized tours to boost regional tourism.
Visitors from Philippines, Thailand and Brunei get 14 days in Taiwan through July 31
Taiwan has officially extended visa-exempt entry for nationals of Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines for another year. Travelers from these countries can continue to enter Taiwan for tourism and business without a visa for stays up to 14 days.
Japan to deny visa renewals for unpaid health insurance starting June 2027
Over 100 Japanese municipalities are now sharing National Health Insurance delinquency records with immigration authorities. Expats and long-term residents who fail to pay premiums face potential denials for visa renewals or changes of status.
Hong Kong raises imported worker ratio to 3:1 for ESLS catering roles
Hong Kong has overhauled its Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme by introducing a two-tier approval system for foreign labor. The new rules mandate a 3:1 local-to-imported worker ratio for mainstream positions like catering, potentially making it harder for expats in service sectors to secure work permits.
Taiwan to offer NT$8,000 to repeat tourists and digital nomads
Taiwan's Tourism Administration is launching a reward program providing NT$5,000 to returning international travelers, with an additional NT$3,000 for those bringing companions. The cash-equivalent incentives aim to lower trip costs for digital nomads and tourists planning multiple stays in the country.
South Korea cuts permanent residency path to 3 years for Top-Tier Visa holders
South Korea has expanded its Top-Tier Visa program to include academic researchers and professors. Additionally, the hiring quota for foreign skilled workers under the E-7-4 visa has increased to 50% in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
Taiwan expands TWAC submission window to 7 days before arrival
Travelers to Taiwan can now complete the mandatory digital Taiwan Arrival Card up to 7 days before their arrival, an increase from the previous 3-day limit. This change provides digital nomads and tourists more flexibility to finalize entry formalities before departing for the country.
Sanseito bill seeks to replace Japan Immigration Services Agency with new office
A bill submitted to the Japanese parliament seeks to replace the Immigration Services Agency with a new body focused on centralized foreign national policy. The proposal signals a political shift toward tighter immigration controls and more rigorous monitoring of resident foreigners.
Taiwan extends TAC and group eVisa programs through Dec. 31
Taiwan has expanded visa-free and multiple-entry access for travelers from India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and three other ASEAN countries. The update simplifies entry requirements and extends permitted stay durations for short-term visitors and repeat travelers.
Hong Kong launches 5 second Seamless e-Channel at HZMB on June 25
The Immigration Department is introducing a Seamless e-Channel service at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Eligible frequent travelers can clear the border using AI facial recognition without stopping or presenting physical documents, significantly reducing transit times for cross-border commuters.
Taiwan opens subsidized long-term care to APRC holders June 30
Starting June 30, 2026, foreign professionals with permanent residency who have lived in Taiwan for 10 cumulative years will qualify for government-funded long-term care. This policy expansion includes eligible dependents, providing a significant social safety net for long-term expats and retirees.
Taiwan blocks DRC and Uganda arrivals for 90 days in Ebola response
Taiwan has suspended visa issuance and barred entry for residents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda for 90 days due to Ebola concerns. The restriction includes limited exceptions but effectively halts travel for most individuals from these regions through August.
Japan issues electronic 90 day tourist visas through the JAPAN eVISA portal
Eligible foreign nationals can now apply for short-term Japanese tourist visas through a dedicated online portal, eliminating the need for paper-based applications at consulates. This digital shift streamlines entry for nomads and travelers from supported countries who do not qualify for visa-free entry.
Japan AI cyber unit screens job ads to find 0 illegal foreign residents
Japan's Immigration Services Agency is launching a dedicated unit using AI and data analytics to monitor social media for visa violations. Digital nomads and expats must ensure strict adherence to work permissions as authorities ramp up digital enforcement against unauthorized side jobs.
Japan hikes permanent residence fees to 200,000 yen and adds JESTA screening
Japan is set to increase fees for residence extensions, status changes, and permanent residency applications. The bill also introduces JESTA, a mandatory pre-arrival screening system for visa-exempt short-term visitors similar to the U.S. ESTA.
Japan enforces 14 day reporting rule for residence card holders
Japan is tightening residency compliance by requiring foreign residents to report address or employer changes within 14 days. Failure to comply with these updated notification rules can lead to fines or the revocation of residence status.
Japan halts Specified Skilled Worker applications as 50,000 cap nears April 13
Japan has suspended new applications for the food service sector under the Specified Skilled Worker program after reaching its annual intake cap. This freeze limits pathways for international workers seeking residency through hospitality roles until the next quota cycle begins.
Japan switches to tax refunds for tourists and nomads starting Nov. 1
Japan is overhauling its tax-free shopping system to require tourists and short-term visitors to pay tax-inclusive prices upfront. Starting Nov. 1, shoppers will claim their 10% VAT refunds at departure terminals via digital QR codes instead of receiving immediate discounts at the point of sale.