Taiwan suspends tourist visa for Sri Lankans

Colombo, July 20 (Daily Mirror) - Taiwan has suspended tourist visa applications from Sri Lankan nationals in accordance with the latest visa policy of the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Taiwan Foriegn Ministry said.

"In accordance with the latest visa policy of the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), effective immediately, tourist visa applications from Sri Lankan nationals will no longer be accepted, the Ministry said.

A statement issued by the Ministry said Sri Lankan nationals may still apply for a visa if they visit on official invitation by a government agency of the Republic of China (Taiwan), exchange activities, visiting relatives (within the third degree of kinship), business, joining a vessel in Taiwan or medical treatment.

According to the statement, applications under the above categories will be processed by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in Chennai or the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore.

Applicants are required to submit documents from the guarantor in Taiwan (authenticated by the Bureau of Consular Affairs, a domestic branch office, or an ROC overseas mission), letter of Guarantee, copy of the guarantor's Republic of China (Taiwan) National Identification Card.

Applicants are also required to submit a copy of the passport biographical page, Police Clearance Certificate, proof of financial capability, proof of accommodation in Taiwan

and return air ticket.

Applicants are advised to ensure that all required documents are prepared before submitting their applications.