Planning to visit the “Heart of the Asia” in the next months? Whether you’re a just a tourist or an OFW seeking for greener pasture, have in mind that Taiwan is not a country that you can easily visit. Although this country is small, the security is pumped up. This is to prevent illegal workers and mules to work or bring anything illegal in the country. But if you don’t have any bad background, you have all the requirements and more importantly, you have enough money, then you’re more likely to get a visa. Speaking of visa, before you visit the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines where you will get one, make sure you take note of these pointers:
The office is open from Monday to Friday with the following hours of operation: 8:45-11:30am (Receiving time) and 1:30-4:30pm (Dispatching time)
The office is closed on Taiwan and Philippines Public Holidays.
When applying for a visa, have in mind that you should bring an extra ID that you can leave with the guard on the entrance of the office.
You MUST bring your ticket or any proof that shows your departure out of Taiwan.
For the dress code, proper and presentable attire is required. Clothes like shorts, sandals and tattered clothes are strictly prohibited.
The usual service will take up to three business days and only a day for the “express” service. You also have to remember that the process starts the day after your application. So always allot one more day before the pick up.
Prepare Php1950.00 for the application fee and and additional Php1000.00 for the Rush Service.
Don’t forget to bring 2 passport photos together with your application. If you happen to forget your photos, no need to worry because there’s a photo shop near the office.
To get ARC, you have to secure an employment authorization from the Council of Affairs – that’s if you’re applying for a resident visa.
As for the tourist visa application, you must have a proof of financial support (e.g. bank account statement with sufficient funds).
If you’re leaving for Taiwan, there’s a departure tax of Php750.00 which is not included on the ticket price.
Here are some travel tips that you can take note if you’re a tourist here in the Philippines.
If you’re having problems with transportation from the airport, there are numerous booths where you can rent private cars ranging from Php500.00 and up.
Looking for a cheaper transportation service with cheaper fare? You can get a cap that has a fare from Php230.00 – Php400.00 which varies on your destination.
No need to worry about getting ripped off by sneaky drivers because there are fare rates posted to give you idea about your possible fare.
If you want to have an even cheaper fare, there are cabs outside the premises of the airport. You can flag down some of the passing cabs and negotiate with the driver. Usually. The fare would range from Php300.00 if you’re destination is just around Metro Manila.