Taiwan Dependent Visa Guide
Taiwan, known for its stable job market and thriving business environment, attracts professionals from various nationalities to work within its borders. For those employed in Taiwan, the possibility of inviting their families to join them is an attractive prospect. The Taiwan dependent visa allows the spouse, children, or dependent parents of an employment visa holder to visit and stay in Taiwan for a specific duration. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on obtaining a Taiwan dependent visa for Indian citizens.
What is a Taiwan Dependent Visa for Indians? A Taiwan Dependent Visa is issued to the spouse, children, or dependent parents of an individual holding an employment visa in Taiwan. This visa permits family members of Indian nationals to reside in the country for a specified period, with the employment visa holder acting as the sponsor for their visit. The validity and duration of stay granted under this visa are typically aligned with the period of stay granted to the employment visa holder. It’s important to note that a dependent visa is generally a sponsored visa and cannot be obtained independently.
How to Apply for a Taiwan Dependent Visa for Indians? To apply for a Taiwan dependent visa, applicants must first meet the eligibility criteria established by the Taiwan Consulate. The application process is outlined as follows:
Visit the Official Taiwan Immigration Website: Initiate the process by visiting the official website of Taiwan Immigration.
Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form for a Taiwan dependent visa.
Sponsor Submits the Application: Meanwhile, the sponsor (employment visa holder) can submit the visa application to the relevant authorities in Taiwan.
Download and Print the Form: After correctly filling out the form, download and print it.
Attach Photographs: Ensure that photographs adhere to the specified photo specifications.
Attach Supporting Documents: Depending on the nature of the dependent visa (spouse, children, or dependent parents), provide the required supporting documents.
Submit the Form to the Visa Application Centre: Submit the completed application form in person.
Pay the Required Visa Fee and Await Verification: After submission, pay the necessary visa fee and await the final verification.
During the application process, it is essential to ensure that the information provided on the visa application form aligns with the details on the applicant’s passport and other relevant documents. Any inaccuracies or unverifiable information could lead to the rejection of the visa application. Such rejections may have implications for future visa applications, including those for other types of visas. To prevent such issues, seeking professional consultation can be valuable in avoiding errors with potentially serious consequences.
Eligibility Several mandatory eligibility criteria must be met before proceeding with the Taiwan dependent visa application. These criteria are crucial for obtaining the required visa. The eligibility parameters are as follows:
Resident Sponsor in Taiwan: The applicant must have a resident sponsor in Taiwan. This sponsor should be directly related to the employment visa holder in Taiwan and must be willing to sponsor the applicant’s stay.
Health Requirements: Applicants must be in good health to travel to Taiwan. A medical test may be required, along with documentary proof of good health.
Age Limit: Applicants must fall within the age limit specified for applying for a work permit.
Character Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate good character and genuine intentions for residing in Taiwan. Documentary proof, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), may be requested.
Sufficient Funds: Adequate funds must be available to support the applicant’s stay in Taiwan. Travel insurance must also be provided by a certified company. Bank statements or equivalent documents serve as proof of financial capability.
Documents Required The specific documents required may vary based on the category of the Taiwan dependent visa (spouse, children, or dependent parents). However, the common list of documents includes:
Original passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond the intended travel date.
A completely filled visa application form.
Two passport-sized photos adhering to specified photo specifications.
A travel itinerary.
Proof of relationship (for example, marriage certificate or birth certificate).
Proof of confirmed travel dates, such as air tickets.
Proof of sufficient funds to support the stay in Taiwan, including income tax returns (ITR) and bank statements.
Proof of accommodation, such as an invitation letter or sponsor’s address proof.
Photo Specifications Ensure that the photographs meet the following specifications:
Two copies must be provided.
Photo size: 2 inches x 2 inches.
Colored copies must be provided.
The face should occupy approximately 60-70% of the frame (32mm x 36mm).
The head should be well-centered.
Maintain a 2mm to 6mm gap between the top of the head and the frame.
Photos should not be older than 6 months.
The background should be white.
Maintain a neutral facial expression.
Glasses are not permitted.
Headgear is allowed for religious reasons only.
Clothing should not match the background.
Processing Time The processing time for a Taiwan dependent visa typically ranges from 3 to 5 days. However, this timeframe may vary depending on factors such as the workload at the consular office, staff availability, document completeness, and other considerations. Additional time may be required if document attestation for commercial documents is necessary.
Taiwan Dependent Visa Fee The fee for a Taiwan dependent visa depends on various factors, including the type of visa, required validity, urgency of visa issuance, and other factors. This fee encompasses charges from the Taiwan Consulate and the visa services availed. Payment can be made online or offline, following the provided instructions.
After Submission During the submission of the visa application form and accompanying documents:
Ensure that the documents to be submitted are in good condition.
Note that an appointment is not required for submission.
Submit the completely filled and signed visa application form to either the visa application center or directly to the Consulate.
If you are more than 200 miles (300 km) away from the Consulate or lack access to a nearby visa application center, you can send the documents via a registered courier service.
When mailing the documents, use a registered courier and ensure that the parcel is self-addressed and prepaid for the safe return of your documents and passport.
Inform the embassy or agency of any additional requirements to be fulfilled or any errors in the application.
If there are any changes related to the application (e.g., changes in marital status or the birth of a child), inform the embassy/agency.
You can check the status of your application and its processing during the waiting period.
In case of changes in plans, you have the option to withdraw the application. Note that visa fees are generally non-refundable.
Visa Status To check the status of your Taiwan dependent visa, you can visit the website of the visa agency through which you applied or the visa application center’s website. Alternatively, you can inquire offline by calling the embassy and providing your visa application number.
When You Have the Visa After the processing is complete and you have received your Taiwan dependent visa, it’s crucial to keep the following guidelines in mind:
Before You Travel:
Take note of the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries permitted; ensure that you do not overstay your visa.
Travel to Taiwan within the validity period specified on your visa.
Carry a copy of your passport and other essential travel documents while in Taiwan.
Obtain health insurance and travel insurance from a certified company.
At the Border:
Have your documents checked and your passport verified.
Obtain the entry stamp on your passport.
Consult airport authorities for any required assistance.
Review your visa copy for other guidelines and rules that must be followed.
When You Enter Taiwan:
Be aware that certain employment may be allowed, but it must be verified with the relevant authorities.
Take the rules and restrictions of the country seriously and adhere to them at all costs.
Stay away from areas designated as tourist-prohibited zones.
Ensure that you do not overstay your visa and, if necessary, apply for a visa extension in a timely manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
To extend your visa, you must have a legitimate reason and provide documentary proof if possible. The sponsor’s visa should also have sufficient validity to support the dependents’ stay. To extend the visa, apply to the respective Immigration Department. Extensions can typically be obtained up to 5 days before the expiration of the existing visa. However, applying at least 15 days before expiration is advisable to ensure timely processing.
If your visa has expired, you are not permitted to stay in the country any longer. If you have humanitarian reasons to stay in Taiwan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may grant an extension. However, if you cannot leave the country after your visa expires, you may face charges and potential re-entry bans. If you must stay, seek extensions with valid reasons.
A medical test is a health examination conducted by an authorized doctor to ensure that the applicant does not have any contagious diseases. These diseases may include not only HIV/AIDS but also other contagious illnesses. However, this medical test is not necessarily required for all types of visas and is primarily mandated for long-term visas. It may not be compulsory for all short-term visa categories.
No, it is not possible to directly convert a dependent visa into a work visa, as these visas serve different purposes. If you have secured employment in Taiwan, you can apply for an employment visa separately after canceling your existing visa.
The Taiwan Consulate does not specify a clear amount required in your savings bank account. Requirements may vary based on the nature of the visa and whether it is a long-term or short-term visa. It is advisable to confirm this information once you determine the type of visa you need, as requirements can change based on several factors.
