Filipino citizens who wish to visit relatives legally residing in Taiwan need to apply for a Dependent Visa. Here are the detailed steps and requirements to help you complete the application smoothly.
1. Understand the Basic Requirements for a Dependent Visa
A Dependent Visa is a visa that allows foreign nationals to reunite with direct relatives who are legally residing in Taiwan. It typically applies to spouses, children, or other immediate family members. The basic requirements for application include:
- Direct Relatives: Usually applies to spouses, minor children, etc.
- Relatives in Taiwan: The family member in Taiwan must be a foreign national with a legal visa (such as a work visa, residence permit, or permanent residence status) or a Taiwanese citizen.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
1. Documents for the Filipino Applicant
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
- Application Form: A completed and signed Dependent Visa application form.
- Photos: Recent passport-sized photos, usually two copies.
- Marriage Certificate: If the applicant is a spouse, the original and a copy of the marriage certificate are required, along with certification from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs or the Taiwan representative office in the Philippines.
- Child’s Birth Certificate: If the applicant is a minor child, the original and a copy of the birth certificate are needed, along with certification.
2. Documents for the Relative in Taiwan
- ID of the Relative in Taiwan:
- Taiwanese Citizens: Provide a valid ID card or household registration transcript.
- Foreign Nationals: Provide a valid residence permit or work visa.
- Proof of Relationship: Documents proving the relationship with the applicant (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate).
- Guarantee Letter: The relative in Taiwan must provide a guarantee letter explaining the purpose of the applicant’s visit and the expected duration of stay.
- Proof of Financial Support: If required, the guarantor should provide proof of financial capability to support the applicant’s living expenses in Taiwan.
3. Submit the Application
1. Prepare Translations and Notarizations of Documents
- Document Translation: All documents that are not in English or Chinese must be translated into Chinese and certified by a professional translation agency.
- Document Notarization: Translated documents must be notarized by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs or the Taiwan representative office in the Philippines.
2. Submit the Application Materials
- Submission Location: Submit all prepared application materials to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office or via an agency.
- Application Fee: A certain application fee is usually required for the Dependent Visa.
4. Wait for Review and Approval
1. Review Time
- Processing Time: The review period for a Dependent Visa generally ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of documents.
- Additional Document Requests: If additional documents are required, the Taiwan representative office will notify the applicant.
2. Visa Approval
- Notification Method: The applicant will receive notification once the visa is approved.
5. Enter Taiwan
1. Prepare for Entry
- Entry Documents: Hold a valid Dependent Visa and have the relevant documents ready for inspection upon entry.
- Immigration Check: Upon arrival in Taiwan, immigration officers will check the visa and related documents.
2. Apply for a Residence Permit
- Residence Registration: After entry, the applicant must register for a residence permit at the Taiwan Immigration Agency and complete the necessary registration procedures.
Applying for a Dependent Visa for a Filipino citizen to visit Taiwan requires thorough preparation of documents and adherence to certain procedures. We hope this guide helps you understand the application process and requirements. If you encounter difficulties or uncertainties during the process, NN can assist in ensuring your application is completed smoothly.
