United States Visa RequirementsFor Taiwan passport holders
Taiwan passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Taiwan passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
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
Current Travel Situation
Taiwan to United States: What You Need to Know
Taiwan joined the US Visa Waiver Program in October 2012, a milestone in the robust unofficial relationship between Taiwan and the United States. Though the US does not maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan due to the One China policy, the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 underpins a close security and trade partnership. Taiwan is one of the United States' most important trading partners and semiconductor suppliers. A large Taiwanese-American community lives in California (especially the San Gabriel Valley near Los Angeles), New York, and the broader Bay Area. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) offers direct flights to the US. Note that travelers who also hold a PRC (China) passport cannot use it for VWP; only the ROC (Taiwan) passport qualifies.
How to Get There
China Airlines and EVA Air fly nonstop from Taipei Taoyuan (TPE) to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), New York (JFK), and Seattle (SEA). United, American, and Delta also offer trans-Pacific service from TPE. Los Angeles and San Francisco are the main US gateways for Taiwanese travelers.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is expected in the US and different from Taiwan where service is not typically tipped: tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) is not accepted in the US; exchange at Taoyuan Airport or use ATMs on arrival in Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Carry proof of your return ticket and accommodation. The 90-day limit is firm: do not overstay. US customs may ask about your visit purpose, itinerary, and contacts. If visiting Taiwanese communities in the San Gabriel Valley or Bay Area, having contact details and an invitation can help at the border.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Taiwan citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Taiwan joined the US Visa Waiver Program in October 2012. Taiwan (ROC) passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do Taiwan citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov using your ROC (Taiwan) passport. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What airlines fly nonstop from Taiwan to the United States?
China Airlines and EVA Air fly nonstop from Taipei Taoyuan (TPE) to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), New York (JFK), and Seattle (SEA). United, American, and Delta also offer TPE-US routes.
How long can Taiwan passport holders stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. The stay cannot be extended under VWP status.
Can Taiwan citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Taiwan citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation leading to deportation, permanent VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties obtaining future US visas.
Can I use a PRC (China) passport to enter the US under VWP?
No. Only the ROC (Taiwan) passport qualifies for VWP. A PRC passport requires a separate US visa.