TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A small number of Taiwanese have lost their residency status this year after applying for a one-time Chinese travel passport to cross the border into Russia, the Liberty Times reported on Monday.
Some Taiwanese traveling in China recently signed up through Chinese travel agencies for tours to nearby Russia, per Liberty Times. Misled by claims of Russian visa assistance and fast-track border clearances, they applied for a single-entry Chinese travel passport.
Under Article 9-1 of the Cross-Strait Act, however, Taiwanese are prohibited from holding a household registration in China or obtaining a Chinese passport. Violations result in the loss of Taiwan residency and household registration, along with related rights, including voting, serving in the military, and holding public office.
The few individuals who lost their status this year were mostly identified through public complaints or intelligence received by relevant authorities.
According to the National Immigration Agency, when it receives reports from other agencies or the public that a Taiwanese national has household registration in China or has obtained a Chinese passport, ID card, or residence permit, it verifies the information in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act. The individual will be notified to explain before the case is forwarded to the household registration authorities for processing.
The agency said that the regulations allowing former residents of Taiwan who originally held household registration but became Chinese residents were amended on Nov. 3. The revised rules impose stricter requirements for restoring Taiwan residency, and the agency urged the public to exercise caution.
The agency reminded Taiwanese not to apply for Chinese border travel passports or similar documents simply for the convenience of short trips to neighboring countries while visiting China.
