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CndnEnrgy · Joined: 15 Mar 2005 Posts: 14 Location: Toronto

Hey guys,

Yet another visa question, but for the life of me I couldn't find a string on this topic. Went to the "Taipei cultural office" or whatever on yonge st. in Toronto to apply for my 60 day multi entry, and the lady there was pretty adament I have a Reference in Taiwan.

Essentially, on the bottom of the application is a spot for me to put in the name, address and phone # of someone already in Taiwan, as well as their ARC number. She said that they have started limited the 60 day variety (as opposed to 30) to those with a contact in the country.

Anyone else experienced this? The only person I know in the country is a friend of a friend, so I've asked for his ARC # but I understand if he is sorta sketchy about giving to me.

Any thoughts?

Cheers.

clark.w.griswald · Joined: 06 Dec 2004 Posts: 2056

While I don't have personal experience with this, I can confirm that there have been many reports of such a requirement recently. Previously this wasn't required but it does seem evident that they are tightening things up.

If you don't know anyone who is able to share this information with you, then why not just go for a 30 day if it is easier to get? I realize that it isn't ideal and may involve a visa run after 30 days, but given the situation, it may be your only way of being sure of getting here.

Visa offices are notoriously difficult places to deal with. There is a chance that you could make the application without that contact information by explaining that you don't know anyone here yet as you are travelling, but then they might just refuse it point blank.

Hopefully some Canadians who have recently obtained such a visa can wade in here with their experiences.

Aristotle · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1388 Location: Taiwan

Never tell the Taiwan visa office that you are a teacher or anything besides a business person.
There is no real tourism on Taiwan to speak of. What few places their are worth going to fall short of international standards and are incredibly over priced.
The main source of tourism on Taiwan is business oriented. People from abroad coming to tour and industrial machine factory and the like.
So if you claim you are a tourist your application is red flagged and view with suspicion by the Taiwan authorities.
Please read this.
http://www.voy.com/113223/223.html
and this.
http://www.geocities.com/taiwanteacher2002/Success.html
Apply for your multiple entry visa at a different Taiwan representative office through a travel agent.
Good luck!
A.