Landing visas for mainland tourists to start from New Year’s Day; 15-day free travel to Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu

▲ The Ministry of the Interior will allow mainland tourists using the mini-three links to apply for landing visas starting New Year’s Day next year, permitting free travel within the valid period to the three outlying islands. The photo shows Penghu’s Double-Heart Fish Trap. (Photo / Penghu National Scenic Area)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Starting from New Year’s Day next year, mainland tourists traveling to Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu via the mini-three links will be allowed to apply for a “landing visa,” enabling them to freely explore the three outlying islands within a valid 15-day period, in hopes of attracting more tourists to Taiwan’s outlying islands.

The Ministry of the Interior recently stated that to increase flexibility for mainland tourists visiting Taiwan, starting New Year’s Day 2015, those traveling to Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu via the mini-three links can apply for a temporary stay permit upon arrival, commonly known as a “landing visa.” Each application will cost NT$600, while those applied for online in advance will still be charged NT$200. It is estimated that over 70,000 people will benefit.

The Ministry of the Interior pointed out that currently, mainland tourists using the mini-three links must apply online in advance, with the process taking about four hours. This new measure for landing visas has been introduced to provide more flexibility for mainland visitors traveling to Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu, allowing those who decide to visit on short notice or have related travel plans to enjoy a more flexible and faster entry process into these islands, thereby also boosting local tourism revenue.