TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The UK now requires Taiwanese to obtain pre-travel permits to visit or transit through the country.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said that effective Jan. 8, 2025, Taiwanese passport holders must obtain a UK-issued electronic travel authorization for visits or transit in the UK. The changes will occur in phases, but by April, all travelers must present the new digitally issued travel document for entry, according to the UK government website.
In March 2009, the UK government granted Taiwan visa-free status for visits of less than six months. The number of Taiwanese visiting the UK increased significantly after the visa-waiver program.
The ETA application costs £10 (NT$405) and takes three business days or longer to process. If approved, the ETA is valid for two years.
Travelers can visit the government website or download the "UK ETA" app to apply. Individuals who must visit the UK immediately can “travel to the UK while waiting for a decision,” the government website said.
The government noted that obtaining an ETA does not guarantee entry since immigration officers make the final decision at the border.