Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team Compiled and Reported
As the number of visa-free countries for Taiwan increases, it has become more convenient for its citizens to travel abroad. However, some individuals abuse this convenience by frequently entering and exiting a single country for illegal activities, leading to entry refusals. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a special statement noting that visa-free status does not necessarily guarantee entry into another country. Customs officers have the right to inquire about travelers' itineraries upon arrival, and failure to comply with regulations may result in being denied entry and sent back. Below are seven common scenarios where travelers are turned away from visa-free countries—please pay close attention.
Entry refused even in visa-free countries: Seven key points to note. (Image source / vwmin)
● No clear travel plan, such as an unbooked hotel
Upon entry, travelers are often required to provide the phone number and address of their hotel or accommodation on the immigration form. Failure to fill this in may cause delays or even result in being denied entry.
● Flight duration exceeds the visa-on-arrival period
Although the destination is a visa-free country, some still require a visa-on-arrival. Typically, visa-on-arrival is limited to around 30–60 days, so the flight duration should not exceed the permitted stay in that country.
● Drug trafficking, prostitution, and other illegal activities
Any universally recognized illegal activity is prohibited, including the previously discussed "birth tourism to the U.S.," which is also considered unlawful and may lead to denial of entry.
● Carrying too much or too little cash, or professional equipment, may raise suspicions of engaging in activities inconsistent with visa-free travel
● Damaged passport
Damaged passport content, alterations, or insufficient blank pages may result in entry refusal.
● Excessive entry frequency
Frequent entries may lead to suspicion of conducting commercial activities locally, resulting in denial of entry.
● Carrying excessive goods
A Taiwanese woman was once stopped at New Zealand customs for carrying 300–400 facial masks in her luggage, suspected of intending to sell them, and was subsequently denied entry.
