The UK Border Agency today announces changes to the processing of visa applications in Taiwan. Taiwanese passport holders who still require a UK visa will continue to make their applications in Taiwan in the usual way. But from 5 Oct 2009, these applications will then be sent for processing at the UK Border Agency’s new regional centre in Manila. This decision follows the introduction of the UK visa-lift scheme in Taiwan and the sharp drop in the number of visas that now need to be issued.

The new change is to consolidate the UK’s immigration expertise in visa centres of excellence such as Manila, to enhance the quality of decision-making. Visas from Japan, Republic of Korea, and Hong Kong are already being processed in Manila.

The majority of Taiwanese can now travel to the UK without a visa. Since 3 March this year the United Kingdom has lifted visa requirements for Taiwanese passport holders travelling to the UK for less than six months. From March to July this year the number of Taiwanese visitors to the UK was up by one third, comparing with same period last year, according to statistics published by Taiwan Tourism Bureau.

For people who need a visa to travel to the UK, there will be no change to the visa application process, and no additional costs. However, due to the need to send documentation to Manila, there may be an increase in the turnaround time, though this will still be within the UK Border Agency’s worldwide targets. We strongly recommend that applicants in Taiwan apply for visas as early as possible.

Applicants who need to apply for a UK visa this month should be aware of the following changes:

• To prepare for the transformation, the UK visa online applications system will be unavailable to applicants in Taiwan from 28 September until 5 October. If you are travelling to the UK after 20 Oct, we advise that you make your application after the facility restarts on 5 October. If you are travelling to the UK before 20 October, we advise that you make your application as soon as possible and definitely before 27 September.
• The Visa Application Centre will also be closed on 1 and 2 October.

David Campbell, Director of the British Trade and Cultural Office, said ‘We are very pleased that so many Taiwanese wish to travel to the UK to study or work, and we remain committed to a high level of service for our visa customers.’

'There will be no change to our agreed worldwide standards for visa turnaround. But to ensure that travellers have a smooth trip to the UK, we encourage everyone to make their applications well in advance of any planned journey to the UK. An application can be accepted up to three months in advance of the proposed date of travel’, David Campbell added.

It is also essential for applicants to ensure that all the required documents are submitted with their application and translated into English by an official translator. The UK Visa Application Centre in Taipei will continue to help applicants check that they have the correct documentation.

Notes for Editors

1. From 3 March 2009, Taiwan passport-holders who wish to visit the United Kingdom for less than six months on business or as a tourist, family visitor or student visitor will no longer require a visa. 
2. From Jan to Aug 2009, the British Trade and Cultural Office issued 5,260 UK visas in Taiwan. There are 3,112 Tier 4 student visas (59.2%), 783 visitor visa (25.2%), and 507 business visa (16.3%).
3. For more information, please check UK Visa Application Centre's website: www.vfs-uk-tw.com
4. Media contact:
   Christy Wang
   Head of Communications
   British Trade and Cultural Office
   Tel: (02)8758 2015/ Email: Christy.Wang@fco.gov.uk

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