ESTA for Taiwanese Citizens

Taiwan became a member of the Visa Waiver Program in 2012, allowing the citizens of Taiwan to benefit from the more convenient process of applying for an ESTA, as opposed to the US visa.

Why Taiwanese Citizens Should Apply for ESTA

There are plenty of good reasons for citizens of Taiwan to apply for an ESTA when they want to travel to the US. The process is much faster and much simpler than the process for applying for a US visa, with a response usually being received within 24 hours. It is recommended that applicants apply at least 72 hours before they intend to travel to the US just in case there is any hold-up with the application.

When an ESTA is approved, it remains valid for multiple trips to the US if the holder is planning to travel again in the future. Applying for a US visa involves attending US Embassy and the whole process can take several weeks or even longer. Applying for an ESTA is all done digitally, with the correspondence being sent via email. Another key benefits of applying for an ESTA is that it is much cheaper than applying for US Visa.

The ESTA Application Process for Taiwanese Citizens

It is really easy for citizens of Taiwan to apply for an ESTA, they just need to visit the application form on the website and provide all of the details requested. The questions on the form include name, address, date of birth and then also asks about medical history and any criminal convictions. The applicant must also provide passport details as the Esther will be electronically linked to their passport.

Once all of the details have been completed it is crucial that the applicant checks through all of the details they have provided, as any kind of mistake could lead to the ESTA getting declined and destructing travel plans.

Once the details have been checked over, the applicant can then make the application fee payment by card and submit the application. The response regarding whether the ESTA has been approved will be sent to the email address provided in the application.

What Documents Are Required to Apply for the ESTA?

When making plans to visit the U.S. and apply for an ESTA, make sure to have all of the necessary documentation ready. This is what you need to prepare:

Passport Requirements for the US ESTA

Taiwanese citizens must have passports that meet certain conditions to be able to travel under the Visa Waiver Program. Their passport must be:

Can Taiwanese Nationals Make Changes to Their ESTA ApplicationsOnce They’ve Been Submitted?

After the application is submitted, users cannot change information in the form. Once they get their ESTA, they will only be able to change the address where they’ll be staying in the USA and the email address.

Is It Possible to Change a Status After Entering The US?

Taiwanese nationals can not change their status when they already enter the US.

To be able to change their status, they first must depart from the USA, and after that, they may apply for the appropriate visa or immigration status from their home country.

What Is the ESTA Processing Time?

ESTA processing time is not always the same, but in most cases it is very fast - from a few minutes to 24 hours. However, in some rare occassions, it can take up to 72 hours for your ESTA to be processed. This happens if authorities need to make an additional review of the application.

How Much in Advance Should You Apply?

Its recommended to apply for ESTA at least three days before your travel to be able to avoid delays and any possible problems that may occur.

If you don't manage to apply timely, you can also apply at the airport, just before traveling. However, we don't recommend doing this so late because if you don't get your ESTA approval, you can't refund your ticket costs.

How Long Does The ESTA Approval Last?

The approval of ESTA lasts for a duration of two years. But, travelers should remember that if their passport expires before these two years, their ESTA automatically will become invalid. That's why it's crucial to keep an eye on the passport expiry date.

Updating Your ESTA: When Do You Need a New Travel Approval?

Travelers from Taiwan may need to obtain a new ESTA in specific situations, which include:

1. Name alteration
2. Gender change
3. Passport expiration or acquisition of a new passport
4. Any changes to their answers in the ESTA eligibility questions.

Can a Taiwanese National Extend Their ESTA Beyond 90 Days?

Taiwanese citizens cannot extend their ESTA beyond the period of 90 days. If they plan to stay in the United States for a longer duration, they must apply for a relevant visa based on their individual circumstances.

US ESTA: Important Information

Before starting your ESTA application, there are few more important information to keep in mind. Let’s start with taking a closer look at who doesn’t qualify for ESTA travel approval.

Who Is Not Eligible for an ESTA?

The following tourists from Taiwan can't travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program:

My ESTA was Declined, What Can I Do?

If your ESTA gets declined, there is still the opportunity to resubmit another application if you think you made an error on the declined one. Alternatively, you may need to apply for a US visa instead through the embassy:

US Embassy Address in Taiwan

American Institute in Taiwan
No. 100, Jinhu Road,
Neihu District 11461, Taipei City, Taiwan

Under What Circumstances Do You Need to Apply for aUS Visa Instead of an ESTA?

You need a visa instead of ESTA to travel to the USA if:

Main Differences Between an ESTA and a US Visa

Although ESTA and a Visa have similarities between them, there are a few important differences. The main of them are:

Do Dual Citizens of Taiwan and the United States or Canada Need an ESTA?

Dual citizens of Taiwan and the United States or Canada are not mandated to have an ESTA. All that they have to do is use their USA or Canada passport when entering the USA.

Do Taiwanese Travelers Need to Get an ESTA for Their Children Too?

Children or minors, like any other person, regardless of age, must have an approved ESTA before their trip to America.

Parents and legal guardians can make ESTA applications on behalf of their children.

ESTA Benefits:

Find Out More About the ESTA Travel Approval

If you need more information about ESTA, visit our FAQ page or read about the ESTA requirements.