Taiwan Visa RequirementsFor Hong Kong passport holders
HKSAR passport holders require a Republic of China Entry Permit (not a standard visa) to visit Taiwan. This must be applied for in advance through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Hong Kong. The fee is approximately USD 68.
Hong Kong passport holders require a visa to enter Taiwan.
Apply at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Hong Kong or check for online application options. Required documents: valid HKSAR passport (6 months validity), completed application form, passport photo, return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Fee: approximately USD 68. Processing: 3-7 business days. The Entry Permit specifies single or multiple entry; request a multiple-entry permit if planning to visit multiple times. Note: mainland Chinese passport holders have separate and more restrictive rules for Taiwan entry; HKSAR passport holders apply under a different category.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
HKSAR Passport
Valid HKSAR passport with at least 6 months validity.
Completed Entry Permit Application Form
Available at TECO Hong Kong or the TECO website.
Passport-Size Photographs
Recent photographs meeting TECO specifications.
Proof of Travel Itinerary
Flight bookings and accommodation details for Taiwan.
Return or Onward Travel Ticket
Confirmed departure ticket from Taiwan.
Entry Permit Fee
Approximately USD 68; confirm with TECO for current amount.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statements or financial evidence.
Current Travel Situation
Hong Kong to Taiwan: What You Need to Know
The Taiwan-Hong Kong travel relationship is complex and has evolved since 2020. HKSAR passport holders need to apply for an Entry Permit for Taiwan, processed through the TECO in Hong Kong (Taiwan does not have an official embassy in Hong Kong due to the One China policy framework). Post-2020, the National Security Law in Hong Kong has added a political dimension to HK-Taiwan relations, with Taiwan having suspended its office in Hong Kong for a period. Travelers should verify the current operational status of TECO Hong Kong and whether online applications are available. Taiwan is a top destination for Hong Kong travelers: Taipei's night markets, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Tainan's history, and the East Rift Valley are major draws.
How to Get There
Japan (visa-free for HK) is accessible from Taipei in 3 hours by air. South Korea (visa required for HK) is about 2.5 hours away. Okinawa (Japan) is one of the closest foreign destinations from Taipei.
Money & Banking
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Taiwan is excellent value. Budget TWD 1,500-3,000 per day (roughly USD 47-94) for comfortable mid-range travel. Taipei night market food is famously affordable (TWD 50-150 per item). The YouBike rental system and MRT are cheap and comprehensive in Taipei.
Practical Tips
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the main gateway. Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) in the south also handles international routes. Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, and China Airlines connect Hong Kong (HKG) to Taipei directly in about 1.5 hours. Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in 90 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do HKSAR passport holders need a visa for Taiwan?
Yes. HKSAR passport holders must apply for a Republic of China Entry Permit through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) before visiting Taiwan. The fee is approximately USD 68.
What is the TECO and where is it located in Hong Kong?
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) is Taiwan's de facto consulate in Hong Kong, as Taiwan and Hong Kong do not have official diplomatic relations. Check the TECO Hong Kong website for the current address and operational status, as the office has had periods of restricted activity.
Why do HKSAR passport holders need a permit for Taiwan?
Taiwan maintains its own immigration policies. The Entry Permit requirement for HKSAR passport holders reflects the complex relationship between Taiwan, Hong Kong, and mainland China. HKSAR passport holders are processed under a different category than mainland Chinese passport holders, who face more restrictive rules.
How long can I stay in Taiwan with an Entry Permit?
Up to 30 days per visit for a standard single-entry permit, extendable to up to 90 days through the National Immigration Agency in Taiwan. Multiple-entry permits are also available.
Are there direct flights from Hong Kong to Taiwan?
Yes. Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, and China Airlines operate multiple daily direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Taipei Taoyuan (TPE). Flight time is approximately 1.5 hours, making it one of the quickest international routes for HK travelers.
What currency does Taiwan use?
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Taiwan is excellent value, particularly for food and public transport.
What are the top experiences in Taiwan?
Taipei's night markets (Shilin, Raohe), the National Palace Museum, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Tainan's ancient temples and local food, Jiufen hillside village, the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, cycling in the East Rift Valley, and hot springs in Beitou.
How have HK-Taiwan relations changed since 2020?
The 2020 National Security Law in Hong Kong affected relations: Taiwan temporarily suspended the TECO Hong Kong office (it has since reopened with modifications) and expressed concern about developments in Hong Kong. HK-Taiwan relations remain diplomatically complex but tourism connections continue. Verify the current status of TECO Hong Kong before planning travel.