How long does it take to get a Taiwan Compatriot Permit? What do you need to apply? Don't worry if your permit has expired or gone missing — this guide covers the documents, fees, and processing time you'll need, with express processing taking as little as 4 days, so you can freely travel around mainland China ✨

What is a Taiwan Compatriot Permit? 5 key uses at a glance 👍

The "Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents," commonly known as the Taiwan Compatriot Permit, is a travel document for Taiwanese residents visiting mainland China, functioning much like a combined passport and visa. Beyond entry into China, it's also used as an ID document for everyday life while in China. Here are its main uses 👇

Image source: Wikipedia

1. A travel document for mainland China and Hong Kong

Taiwanese residents can use a Taiwan Compatriot Permit not only to enter mainland China directly, but also to enter Hong Kong for travel or business if your "Taiwan Resident Pre-Arrival Registration" hasn't been approved yet — saving you the hassle of a separate visa~ As long as the permit is valid, you can stay in mainland China indefinitely, and enjoy a 30-day stay in Hong Kong or Macau!

2. Booking real-name transport like trains and flights

Since the Taiwan Compatriot Permit serves as a Taiwanese resident's ID in China, you can use it to book high-speed rail and train tickets online in China. Pair it with DJB's China unlimited data SIM for a smoother trip!

3. Discounts on local attraction tickets and transport
4. Applying for a Chinese mobile number or SIM card
5. Education, exams, healthcare, employment, marriage, and property purchases

How long does it take to apply? Standard vs. express processing compared

You can submit your application in two ways: in person, or by registered mail. Since China has no representative office in Taiwan, applications must go through a "China Travel Service" office in Hong Kong or Macau. If you'd rather have it handled conveniently or need it processed quickly, we recommend using a travel agency service — not only does it save you the hassle, it can also speed up processing! Here's a breakdown of common agency fees👇

TypeFeeProcessing time
StandardNT$1,600-1,8007 days
ExpressNT$2,400-2,6004 days
Priority expressNT$4,900Next day

What do you need to apply? 5 must-have documents!

Whether your permit has expired, gone missing, or you're applying for the first time, you'll need these 5 documents~ The permit is valid for 5 years, so we recommend checking your expiry date before travelling, to avoid a last-minute rush to renew it right before your trip~

1. Original ROC passport (valid for at least 6 months)

2. Copy of both sides of your national ID card

3. A 2-inch color photo with a white background (taken within the past year)

4. Taiwan Compatriot Permit application form

5. If you've changed your name, attach a household registration transcript issued within the past 6 months

💡 If the applicant is under 16, attach a household registration transcript and a copy of both sides of the guardian's ID card

How to fill out the application form — 10 things to watch for!

1. Print the form on A4 paper, keeping the layout at full scale — do not resize or print at an angle

2. Reason for application: check "first application" for a new permit, or "renewal" if replacing an old one

3. Name in Chinese and English: must match your passport exactly

4. Permit number: if you hold a valid old permit, fill in its permit number

5. Employer, job title, and occupation: you may leave these blank

5. Taiwan address: you can use either your registered household address or current residence

6. Place of birth: write your county/city in Taiwan (no need to write "Taiwan"); if born in mainland China, write the province; if born abroad, write the country name 

8. We recommend not gluing your photo or ID copy to the form, to avoid damage during mailing

9. Write clearly and sign in standard script — a stamp cannot replace a signature

10. For a child's application, an adult may sign on their behalf; for those under 16, the guardian's name must also be added on the right side

Image source: 17tour

Photo requirements: the complete guide to size and specifications ✨

To speed up your application, make sure your photo meets these 6 requirements, to avoid a rejected photo slowing things down!

1. 2-inch color photo, white background (4.5cm x 3.5cm)

2. Taken within the past 6 months

3. Eyebrows, forehead, and ears visible; no smiling with teeth showing

4. No digital retouching of facial features, such as moles, birthmarks, or scars

5. No glasses or any accessories

6. Avoid wearing white or turtleneck tops — dark-colored collared shirts are best, to create contrast against the background

Image source: Macau China Travel Service-authorized Taiwan Compatriot Permit agency

Now that you know what to watch for when applying for a Taiwan Compatriot Permit, don't panic if yours has expired — just fill out the application form, make sure your photo meets the requirements, and find an agency to process it quickly for you! DJB wishes you a wonderful trip~ 🥰