TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese should not misuse visa waivers in other countries to join fraud rings or engage in online gambling, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.
The warning came ahead of the Feb. 14–22 Lunar New Year holiday, one of the busiest travel periods of the year. South Korea and Thailand have tightened inspections of foreign visitors suspected of intending to engage in illegal activities, the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry reminded travelers that most countries provide visa waivers only for tourism and business. If travelers engage in illegal activities or overstay, the ministry said, it could harm Taiwan’s international reputation and might lead countries to end visa waivers for Taiwanese visitors.
If anyone becomes involved in illegal activity overseas, they should report to local police or immigration authorities and contact Taiwan’s representative office in that country, the ministry said.
Thailand has found that some Taiwanese nationals entered Myanmar or Cambodia after arriving in Thailand using visa waivers, the ministry said. If Thailand refuses entry, it is a sovereign decision and Taiwan has no right to intervene, it added.
South Korea has arrested Taiwanese suspects in fraud and drug cases, the ministry said, adding that Taiwan’s representative office can only provide legal assistance and help them contact relatives. The ministry cautioned travelers to verify details before responding to online ads offering high-paying overseas jobs and free airline tickets. It warned that falling for fraudulent offers could lead to serious financial losses or loss of freedom, and potential convictions for fraud.
