Guide for Hong Kong and Macau residents entering Taiwan in 2023

Last Updated on 11-26-2023

Starting February 20, 2023, Taiwan will allow individual travel for Hong Kong and Macau residents without requiring a minimum of 5 people per group.

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Specific Measures for Hong Kong and Macau Residents Entering Taiwan.

Upon entering Taiwan from Hong Kong or Macau, one must first apply online for an entry permit (eVisa) or apply for an entry permit through the “Online Application System for Overseas Personnel.” Once approved, print and sign the “Agreement on Hong Kong/Macau Residents’ Online Application for Entry Permit and Entry Registration” and bring it along with the original copy of the Hong Kong/Macau SAR Passport or ID Card with a validity of at least 3 months and a round-trip ticket for a single entry into and exit from Taiwan within the validity period.

1. Resumption of accepting online applications for temporary stay permits (eVisa) for Hong Kong and Macau residents.
2. Eligible applicants can apply for entry to Taiwan through the eVisa system or apply for entry and exit permits in advance through the “Online Application System for Entry and Exit Permits for Overseas People” provided by the National Immigration Agency.
3. Lifted the entry restrictions on Hong Kong and Macau residents that were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. As of November 7, 2022, the group tourist program has resumed normal operation, allowing visitors from Hong Kong and Macau to travel to Taiwan independently.

Three Ways to Apply for Taiwan Entry Permit

1. eVisa (Stay up to 30 days)

This is currently the most commonly used application method, suitable for permanent residents born in Hong Kong or Macau, those who were not born in Hong Kong or Macau but had traveled to Taiwan with permanent residency status after 1983, and those who hold a valid Taiwan entry permit. Applicants can apply for temporary entry upon arrival in Taiwan at the service unit of the National Immigration Agency of the Ministry of the Interior and enter and exit with the certificate.

Eligibility for Application

1. Permanent residents born in Hong Kong or Macau.
2. Those who were not born in Hong Kong or Macau, but have visited Taiwan as permanent residents of Hong Kong or Macau after 1983.
3. Holders of valid Taiwan Entry Permit for Residents of Hong Kong and Macau.

Application Methods and Required Documents

• When applying, you need to fill in personal information, purpose of entry, and one address or hotel name in Taiwan. After approval, print out and sign one “Agreement Form and Entry Registration Form for Hong Kong and Macau Residents Applying for Entry Permit Online” by yourself.
• A valid Hong Kong or Macau SAR passport or BNO passport with a validity of at least 3 months, an original ID card, and round-trip air tickets are required.
• You can enter and exit Taiwan once within 3 months from the date of permit approval, and stay for up to 30 days each time. Extension is not allowed, and there is no fee for application.
• As long as you provide the correct personal information, the system will immediately confirm and approve your application. In general, the whole process can be completed within 30 minutes.
• If your online application is approved, a “Approval Notice” will be displayed. Please click to download and print out the entry permit. The printed entry permit needs to be presented upon entry to Taiwan.

▲Step 1: Email Verification

▲Step 2: Fill in the information

▲Step 3: View/Print

Recommended accommodation for stays of less than 30 days in Taiwan

1. GD Hotel

Why we recommended

1. GD Hotel is located in Tainan City, surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings, with lush greenery and gardens, providing you with a tranquil and comfortable environment for your stay. Whether you are on a leisure trip or a business journey, this hotel caters to your needs.
2. For business travelers, it provides modern meeting and event venues, making it highly suitable for conferences and gatherings. Most importantly, GD Hotel enjoys a convenient location with easy access to Tainan’s city center and nearby attractions, making your travel more convenient.

2. Hi Lai EZ Stay

Why we recommended

1. Hassle-Free Check-In Experience: At Hi Lai EZ Stay, you can enjoy a worry-free check-in experience. They offer a self-check-in service, eliminating the need to wait in traditional queues and saving you precious time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the city faster. Moreover, they have introduced an AI service robot, Hi-Ro, which not only delivers items but also provides various guidance and assistance to ensure your stay is flawless.
2. Thoughtfully Crafted Rooms: Hi Lai EZ Stay is renowned for its bright and cheerful design, creating an environment filled with elegance. Whether you are on a business trip or leisure vacation, the rooms here cater to your needs. Meticulously designed details and a tranquil atmosphere will enable you to relax quickly and enjoy a comfortable rest.

3. Silks Club

Why we recommended

1. Luxury and Comfort: Silks Club International Hotel, located in the heart of Kaohsiung, is synonymous with ultimate luxury and supreme comfort. It is a designated partner of international boutique brands and comes highly recommended by internet users. You can expect a high-quality accommodation experience and unparalleled hospitality.
2. Unique Design and Facilities: The hotel boasts awe-inspiring design and facilities. The rooms and suites are filled with artistic flair, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Taiwanese architecture. Additionally, top-notch amenities like the rooftop infinity pool will leave you lingering, experiencing infinite relaxation.
3. Prime Location: Silks Club International Hotel is situated in the bustling center of Kaohsiung, in proximity to landmarks such as Kaohsiung Port, Kaohsiung Railway Station, and Kaohsiung Xiaogang. It is not only an ideal base for business travelers but also a superb starting point for exploring the city.

4. SAYO Hotel

Why we recommended

1. Exceptional Location: Sa-Yo Hotel is situated in the Yancheng District, an area brimming with historical charm and artistic vibes. You can easily stroll to Yancheng Public Market, known for its local delicacies, or explore the artistic district’s allure. This location is undoubtedly the best choice for immersing yourself in Kaohsiung’s culture and culinary delights.
2. Comfortable Accommodations: Sa-Yo Hotel offers spacious and comfortable guest rooms, along with various leisure facilities, including a children’s game room and meeting rooms, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide a home-like comfort.

2. Online Application for Entry Permit for Foreign Nationals (Cloud application) (Short-term stay for up to 6 months)

The cloud application is intended for individuals who intend to stay in Taiwan for more than 30 days, but less than 6 months, who are not permanent residents of Hong Kong or Macao, and who have never entered Taiwan before. The cloud application is also done online, and applicants need to prepare and upload relevant documents, with a processing time of about 5-10 days.

Eligibility for Application

Holders of Hong Kong passports without BNO passports or any other travel documents other than Hong Kong passports. Holders of Macau passports who do not possess any other travel documents other than Macau passports, or holders of Portuguese passports who obtained the passports in Macau prior to the end of Portuguese administration in Macau.

Application Methods and Required Documents

• One entry/exit application form with one recent color photo taken within the past two years (2.5 x 2.5 inches, same as ID photo).
• One original and one copy of the Hong Kong/Macau permanent resident identity card (original will be returned after verification).
• A registered return envelope with recipient’s name and address filled out.
• A letter of authorization (not required for personal applications in person).

Processing Time for Review

• 5 to 10 business days (excluding the time required for the application unit to forward the application to the National Immigration Agency)

Application Fees

• Single-entry or Multiple-entry permit valid up to one year: NT$600.
• Multiple-entry permit valid for one year: NT$1000.
• Multiple-entry permit valid for three years: NT$2000.

Important notes for short-term stays

1. Those who are allowed to enter Taiwan with a single-entry permit can enter and exit once during the validity period, which is six months from the day after the permit is issued. If they cannot enter during the validity period due to special circumstances, they can apply for a one-time extension before the validity period expires.
2. Those who need to come to Taiwan frequently can be issued a multiple-entry permit, which is valid for one or three years from the day after issuance. After obtaining an extension, they can enter and exit Taiwan during the validity period, and the extension period is six months from the day after extension. However, the extension period cannot exceed the validity period of the multiple-entry permit.
3. Those who are allowed to enter Taiwan can stay for up to three months from the day after entry, and can apply for an extension once, for up to an additional three months.
4. If someone overstays or engages in activities not permitted by the purpose of the permit while in Taiwan, their subsequent application to enter Taiwan will not be approved.

▲ Step 1: Email Verification

▲ Step 2: Select your continent and overseas mission (delivery location)

▲ Step 3: Fill in your information / Submit

▲ Step 4: Check your application status

▲ Step 5: Payment

▲ Step 6: Permit Download / Signature

Recommended accommodation for stays of less than 6 months in Taiwan

1. The Denizen

Why we recommended

1. Located in the Daan District, known as the “heart of Taipei City”, the area is well connected to both transportation and lifestyle opportunities, with the Linjiang Street Night Market just a 6-minute walk away and the MRT Liuzhangli Station just 8 minutes away.
2. The Denizen is a luxury serviced apartment in Taipei, offering a home-like yet upscale experience with a kitchenette and separate washing machine.

Special Notice

1. The Denizen is only available for stays of 28 nights or more.
2. All rooms in The Denizen are double rooms.
3. The Denizen do not accept children under 15 years old.

2. Forte Green garden apartment

Why we recommended

1. Conveniently located in Taipei’s Songshan District, it is only an 8-minute walk to the MRT Taipei Arena Station.
2. Forte Green garden apartment are comparatively affordable serviced apartments, with room types ranging from double to quadruple rooms, suitable for families.
3. With a kitchenette and a separate washing machine, you’ll feel right at home.

Special Notice

1. Forte Green garden apartment is only available for stays of 30 nights or more.

3.Landing Visa (Stay up to 30 days)

This is a way to apply for a Taiwan Entry Permit, which is applicable to Hong Kong residents born outside of Hong Kong, foreign nationals holding passports of other countries, and those who cannot apply for an Entry Permit through other channels. Applicants need to apply for entry and stay with the service unit of the National Immigration Agency after arriving in Taiwan, and after review, they can obtain the Taiwan Entry Permit.

Eligibility for Application

1. Permanent residents of Hong Kong or Macau who were born in Hong Kong or Macau, or who entered Taiwan as permanent residents of Hong Kong or Macau after 1983 (*Note: Non-Hong Kong or Macau born individuals must bring their original entry permit to Taiwan).
2. Holders of a valid Hong Kong/Macau SAR passport (or British National Overseas passport) for more than 3 months.
3. Plan to stay in Taiwan for no more than 30 days.

Application Methods and Required Documents

Bring the required documents (see below) and apply to the service unit of the National Immigration Agency of the Ministry of the Interior upon arrival at major airports/ports in Taiwan.

• Temporary Entry Permit Application Form for Taiwan Area
• Valid Hong Kong/Macao SAR passport (or British National Overseas passport) with a validity period of more than 3 months
• For non-Hong Kong/Macao born applicants, the original entry permit to Taiwan must be brought along
• Pre-booked flight ticket to depart Taiwan within 30 days.

Processing Time for Review

The processing time for landing visas is very short as they are approved on arrival.

Application Fees

The fee for a landing visa is NT$300 (approximately HKD 78).

Comparison of Visa Application Methods.

Visa Types	Online Visa	Overseas Application System	Landing Visa
Maximum Stay in Taiwan	30 days	6 months (extendable 3 months before expiration)	30 days
Application Method	Online Application	Online Application	Taiwan Airport/Port
Fees	Free	Single Entry/Exit Permit: NT$600; Multiple Entry/Exit Permit (1-year): NT$1,000; Multiple Entry/Exit Permit (3-year): NT$2,000. Payment must be made online within 2 months of approval, otherwise a new application must be submitted.	NT$300

If you have any questions, please contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office – Hong Kong Office.

• Website: www.teco-hk.org
• Phone: (852) 2525-8316

Important Policies Related to Taiwan

0+7 entry restriction

Under the 0+7 entry policy which takes effect on October 13th 2022, there will be no more quarantine. However, individuals must complete seven (7) days of self-initiated epidemic prevention.

Starting February 20th, 2023, mask-wearing indoors is optional

Starting February 20th, mask-wearing indoors is officially lifted, but it is still required in designated places such as medical care facilities and public transportation. It is “recommended” to wear masks in crowded places, and it is up to individuals to decide whether or not to wear masks in other places. For activities such as eating, taking photos, or medical treatment where mask-wearing is not suitable, it is allowed to remove the mask.

Read more: Taiwan’s Entry Policy Further Relaxed!

Important Document Checklist

1. Passport
2. Electronic visa (printed and signed)
3. Credit card
4. Foreign currency
5. International driver’s license (only needed for self-driving a rental car)