Taiwan Contemplates Installing Visa-On-Arrival System for Indians, Seeks to Enhance Tourism Sector
Taipei's Pitch for Visa-on-Arrival Could Spark Tourism Boom
Taiwan could be revving up for a tourism surge, as they mull over granting visa-on-arrival (VoA) to Indian citizens. This move has potent implications for both nations' travel and trade, and was hinted at during a recent press conference by Deputy Foreign Minister, Tien Chung-kwang.
During the conference, Tien discussed the steadily growing Indian travel market and the advantages of easing visa protocols for tourists from India. He emphasized that while internal consultations are still being held, the idea is indeed under serious consideration.
In an informal setting, Tien commented, "We acknowledge the substantial tourist numbers from India. Discussions with the Immigration Department are necessary to weigh the possibilities of visa-on-arrival."Not a decision to be made unilaterally, collaboration among different departments is crucial, he added.
This news indicates Taiwan's proactive steps towards attracting more Indian tourists and business travelers. The proposal comes shortly after the Minister's refusal to entertain China's objections to communication between Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following Modi's election victory.
Notably, the Chinese Embassy in India has maintained its stance, claiming Taiwan as part of Chinese territory and reiterating the one-China policy, a widely accepted norm in international relations.
The economic relationship between Taiwan and India has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Taiwan positions India as a key partner under its 'New Southbound Policy,' and both countries have already implemented a migration agreement allowing Indian workers employment opportunities in Taiwan's industries. In a stern warning to China, President Lai Ching-te urged Beijing to cease its aggressive tactics towards Taiwan.
In other travel-related news, Goa recently welcomed its one-croreth visitor, highlighting the destination's ever-growing appeal. Meanwhile, several landmarks continue to entice travelers worldwide, making it onto an essential bucket list of sights to see.
While Taiwan has introduced visa facilitation for Indian passport holders holding certain other visas, it remains uncertain if a standalone visa-on-arrival program directly for Indian citizens is in the works. Should Taiwan introduce this program, benefits could extend to increased tourism revenue, cultural exchange, and stronger diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. However, effective management and security measures would be integral for successful implementation.
Sources:[1] Chai, Emily. (2023, July 20). Next Stop: Taiwan? Why Singapore Travelers Are Choosing The Land of Zelda Over Bali. The Straits Times. https://www.straitstimes.com/travel/asia/tapping-into-taiwan-s-surprising-appeal-why-singapore-travellers-are-choosing-the-land[2] Ho, Wenxin. (2025, March 15). Goa Tourism: One Crore and Counting. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/goa-tourism-one-crore-and-counting/article32669191.ece[3] Hu, Tzu-chin. (2024, August 22). Taiwan and India: An Unprecedented Diplomatic and Economic Partnership. The Diplomat. https://thediplomat.com/2024/08/taiwan-and-india-an-unprecedented-diplomatic-and-economic-partnership/
- The possibility of visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens could lead to a significant expansion of Taiwan's travel and tourism sector, as discussed by Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang at a recent press conference.
- If implemented, a visa-on-arrival program for Indian tourists could foster increased tourism revenue, cultural exchange, and stronger diplomatic and economic ties between Taiwan and India.
