Taiwan is extending its visa-free entry program for Philippine passport holders until July 31, 2026, according to a report from the state-controlled Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung announced the one-year extension at the Philippine Independence Day reception hosted by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei. He later confirmed the announcement on his official social media account on Friday night.
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Manila said Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue an official statement regarding the extension on Monday.
Filipinos were first included in Taiwan’s pilot visa-free program in November 2017. The scheme allows Philippine passport holders to enter Taiwan without a visa and stay for up to 14 days, subject to certain entry requirements such as a return ticket, no criminal record, and proof of accommodation.
The PNA report said the extension reflects Taiwan’s continuing effort to promote tourism and strengthen people-to-people exchanges with the Philippines. It is also aligned with Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, which aims to deepen ties with Southeast Asian countries and expand regional cooperation.
Taiwan has grown into a top travel and employment destination for Filipinos in recent years. Government data shows that over 150,000 Filipinos live and work in Taiwan, many employed in manufacturing, caregiving, and domestic service sectors.
