Taiwan extends TAC and group eVisa programs through Dec. 31

How the TAC and group eVisa work

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs runs a layered visa-easing package for nationals of India, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and Vietnam under the New Southbound Policy. The two main tools are the online Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC) and a simplified group eVisa for tour parties.

The TAC is a conditional, multiple-entry clearance valid for 90 days, with each stay capped at 14 days under current rules. Eligibility hinges on holding or having held a valid visa or residence permit from Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, a Schengen state, the UK or the US within the past 10 years or having previously held a Republic of China visa with no violations.

The group eVisa, issued under the Project for Simplifying Visa Regulations for High-end Group Tourists from Southeast Asian Countries, covers parties of at least five travelers booked through an accredited agency. It allows single-entry stays of up to 30 days and remains valid three months from issuance. MOFA has extended the program through Dec. 31, 2026.

A separate trial visa-free scheme for Thailand, Brunei and the Philippines permits 14-day visa-exempt entry and runs through July 31, 2026.

Who benefits

Short-term tourists and business visitors from the seven covered countries gain the most, because the TAC replaces paper visa processing with an online form and waived fees for qualifying applicants. Indian passport holders with prior US, UK, Schengen or comparable visas can skip a consular appointment entirely.

Tour groups from India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos benefit from the group eVisa when booking through Taiwan Tourism Administration-accredited agencies. Thai, Bruneian and Filipino nationals keep full visa-free access for short trips.

None of these channels grant the right to work, study or settle. Digital nomads and prospective long-stay expats still need the Employment Gold Card or another work-eligible status, since TAC and eVisa stays can't be extended or converted on arrival.

How to apply

Applicants submit the TAC through the National Immigration Agency's online portal and should receive approval within minutes when eligibility documents check out. Group eVisas must be filed by the accredited travel agency via the Bureau of Consular Affairs eVisa system, with the tour itinerary attached.

Travelers planning stays longer than 14 days under the TAC route or any paid activity, must apply for a standard visa at a Taiwan representative office before departure.

Read our full Taiwan guide for the complete picture and check our visa updates for the latest policy changes.