Taiwan Student Visa Guide
Taiwan, with its diverse educational opportunities and vibrant culture, beckons students from around the world to pursue their dreams. Whether it’s excelling in technology, natural and life sciences, music, crafts, or other arts, Taiwan offers a path to a secure future for students and their families.
What is a Taiwan Student Visa? When students aspire to study abroad, certain formalities must be fulfilled to pursue their education overseas. The permit obtained for this purpose is known as a student visa. A Taiwan student visa is issued to those seeking to pursue courses in Taiwan. This visa provides various benefits and is classified into different types based on the type of program, including short-term and long-term student visas, each with varying validity periods. Initially, it is granted with a validity of 3 months, which can be extended upon arrival in Taiwan.
How to Apply for a Taiwan Student Visa? To apply for a student visa, meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial. The visa application process is primarily offline, beginning with the completion of the Taiwan student visa application form online. However, before applying for the visa, applicants must first secure admission to the university or college where they intend to study. The application process is as follows:
Visit the Official Taiwan Immigration Website: Initiate the process by visiting the official Taiwan Immigration website.
Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form for a Taiwan student visa.
Download and Print the Form: After correctly filling out the form, download and print it.
Attach Photographs: Ensure that photographs adhere to specified photo specifications.
Attach Supporting Documents: Provide the required supporting documents based on the list of documents provided.
Submit the Form to the Visa Application Centre: Submit the completed application form in person.
Pay the Required Visa Fee and Wait for Verification: After submission, pay the necessary visa fee and await the final verification.
When completing the application form, it is essential to ensure that the information provided aligns with the details on the applicant’s passport and other documents. Any incorrect or unverifiable information could lead to visa rejection, potentially affecting future visa applications, both for Taiwan and other countries. To avoid such complications, professional consultation is advisable to prevent mistakes with potential consequences.
Who Should Apply or Eligibility for a Taiwan Student Visa? The eligibility criteria are parameters that must be met to apply for a Taiwan student visa. Some key eligibility parameters include:
Sufficient Funds: Applicants must possess or have access to sufficient funds to cover their stay and other expenses in Taiwan. Bank statements or equivalent documents serve as proof of financial capability. If there is a sponsor, evidence of their financial stability must also be provided to support the applicant’s education. Legitimate guarantor documents must be submitted at the time of application.
Confirmed Admission in Taiwan: Applicants must have applied to the institution or university where they plan to study. Admission must be confirmed, and applicants must provide the necessary documentary proof. Other valid documents, including educational records, must be submitted. Documents must be complete, and the Certificate of Eligibility for Student Status (CCVI) must be applied for in a timely manner. Educational documents must be verifiable, and proof of the applicant’s highest education degree is required.
Meeting Health Requirements: Applicants must be in good health to travel to Taiwan. A medical test must be conducted before traveling to the country, with relevant documentary proof provided. There are age limits for applying for a student permit.
Character Requirements: Applicants must have genuine intentions for pursuing education in Taiwan. A relevant documentary proof, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), may be required.
Taiwan Student Visa Requirements The documents required for a Taiwan student visa may vary depending on the visa type and educational program. However, common required documents include:
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.
Travel itinerary.
Proof of confirmed travel dates, such as air tickets.
Sponsorer’s proof of employment, which may include a Letter of Remittance and Income Tax Returns (ITR).
Proof of accommodation, such as an invitation letter.
Photo Specifications for Taiwan Student Visa 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.
Taiwan Student Visa Processing Time The processing time required for obtaining a student visa for Taiwan typically ranges from 3 to 5 days. However, this timeframe may vary based 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 is necessary for educational documents.
Taiwan Student Visa Fee The fee for a student visa for Taiwan depends on various factors and is to be paid at the visa application centers along with service charges. Payment is typically accepted in cash, but if there is no access to a visa application center branch, the fee can be sent with a demand draft. Additionally, a separate fee is paid to the institution in Taiwan to confirm enrollment.
After Submission Upon completing the application form and at the time of submission, applicants must:
Ensure that the documents to be submitted are in good condition, and no appointment is required for submission.
Submit the fully filled and signed visa application form to the visa application center or directly to the Consulate.
Submit the documents to the nearest branch of the visa application center.
If residing more than 200 miles (300 km) away from the Consulate or lacking access to a nearby visa application center, applicants can mail the documents via registered courier service.
When mailing the documents, use a special envelope and ensure that the parcel is self-addressed and prepaid for the safe return of documents and the passport.
Inform the embassy or agency of any additional requirements to be fulfilled or any errors in the application.
Notify the embassy/agency of any changes related to the application, such as changes in marital status or the birth of a child.
Check the status of the application and its processing during the waiting period.
Withdraw the application if there is a change of plans; note that visa fees are generally non-refundable.
How to Check Taiwan Student Visa Status? To check the status of a student visa for Taiwan, visit the official website of the visa application center through which you applied. Enter your birth date and application number to check the status online. Alternatively, you can inquire offline by calling the visa application center.
When You Have a Taiwan Student Visa Once the processing is complete, and you have obtained your student visa, it is essential to keep certain guidelines in mind:
Before You Travel:
Note the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries permitted; do not overstay your visa.
Travel to Taiwan within the visa’s validity period.
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 to follow.
When You Enter Taiwan:
Avoid engaging in activities not permitted to non-Taiwan residents to avoid legal trouble.
You can study, work, and tour the country on this visa if permitted.
Stay away from tourist-prohibited areas.
Ensure you do not overstay your visa and apply for a visa extension in a timely manner.
Apply for a visa extension with the National Immigration Agency in Taipei within 15 days of entry, aligning with the enrollment period of your course.
Frequently Asked Questions
To extend your student visa for Taiwan, you must first receive confirmation of your enrollment year from your educational institute. You can then apply to the National Immigration Agency in Taipei. Upon document verification, you will be granted an extension based on your course’s duration. It is crucial to apply for an extension at least 15 days before your visa’s expiration.
If your visa has expired, you are not allowed to stay in the country any longer. In cases of humanitarian reasons to remain in Taiwan, the government may grant an extension. However, if you fail to leave the country after your visa expires, you may face charges and potential bans on re-entry in certain circumstances. Extensions are possible for valid reasons and within the specified timeline.
A medical test, conducted by an authorized doctor, ensures that the applicant does not have contagious diseases, including but not limited to HIV/AIDS and other communicable illnesses. However, this medical test is not mandatory for all visa types. Long-term visas may require it, while short-term student visas may not.
No, it is not possible to directly convert a student visa into a work permit in Taiwan. While you can work within the restrictions specified by your Status of Residence on a student visa, obtaining a work permit for Taiwan requires a separate application process after the expiration or cancellation of your existing student visa.
The Taiwan Consulate does not specify a specific savings account balance requirement. Requirements may vary depending on the visa type, whether it is long-term or short-term, and other factors. Applicants should confirm the specific requirements based on their chosen visa type, as these requirements can change due to various factors.
