Taiwanese citizens have recently encountered visa and entry obstacles when traveling to certain African countries. On July 30, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirmed that Morocco has unexpectedly suspended the processing of visa applications for Taiwanese nationals. In response, Taiwan has implemented reciprocal countermeasures, suspending visa applications for Moroccan citizens effective July 30. Additionally, in August, multiple cases emerged in Uganda where Taiwanese travelers were detained, had their passports confiscated, or were denied entry and deported on the same flight. MOFA issued a warning on August 8, advising travelers to carefully assess the risks before visiting Uganda.

Morocco: Sudden Visa Suspension and Taiwan's Reciprocal Measures

MOFA stated that on July 23, Morocco's embassy in Japan notified Taiwanese travel agencies that it would temporarily halt the processing of 'Visa Confirmation Letters' (VCL) for travel to Morocco. After verification, it was confirmed that the Moroccan government has instructed all its diplomatic missions worldwide to suspend such applications.

- **Transition Rule for Entry**: Taiwanese nationals who obtained a Moroccan VCL before July 20 may still enter Morocco within the validity period of the document. - **Taiwan's Countermeasures**: Since Taiwanese citizens are unable to apply for electronic visas to Morocco, the suspension has severely impacted bilateral business and tourism exchanges. Based on the principle of reciprocity, MOFA announced that starting July 30, Taiwan will suspend visa applications for Moroccan nationals (except for special cases approved on a case-by-case basis). - **Future Adjustments**: MOFA has called on the Moroccan government to restore normal civilian exchanges as soon as possible and will closely monitor developments, adjusting Taiwan's visa policies accordingly.

Uganda: Passport Confiscations and Entry Denials Reported

According to reports from Central News Agency, in addition to Morocco, Uganda has also seen multiple incidents in August involving Taiwanese travelers being denied entry, having their passports seized, or being deported. Media reports indicate that one Taiwanese tourist arriving in early August for tourism was denied entry by immigration officials and immediately deported on the same flight. Another Taiwanese national holding a valid work permit had their passport confiscated upon arrival and has not yet received it back.

MOFA confirmed on August 8 that these incidents may be linked to Taiwan's decision to suspend visa issuance and entry for Ugandan nationals starting June 2, in response to the rising risk of Ebola outbreaks.

The Taipei Representative Office in Somaliland, which also handles affairs related to Uganda, has provided immediate assistance through coordination with local Taiwanese business associations and continues to engage in diplomatic discussions with Ugandan authorities.

Emergency Contact Information

Taiwanese citizens encountering emergencies or difficulties in Uganda should contact the following numbers for immediate assistance:

- Taipei Representative Office in Somaliland Emergency Assistance: +252-636-292-616 - MOFA Emergency Service for Travelers Abroad: +886-800-085-095

Summary of Recent Visa and Entry Changes for Morocco and Uganda

| Country | Cause of Diplomatic Dispute | Taiwan's Response and Countermeasures | Travel Advisory for Taiwanese Nationals | |---------|-------------------------------|----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Morocco | On July 23, Morocco announced a global suspension of 'Visa Confirmation Letter' applications for Taiwanese nationals | Starting July 30, Taiwan suspends visa applications for Moroccan nationals (except special cases) | Those who obtained a VCL before July 20 may enter within the validity period | | Uganda | Early August reports of passport seizures, entry denials, and deportations of Taiwanese nationals | Representative Office in Somaliland is negotiating with Ugandan authorities and providing necessary assistance | Travelers should carefully assess risks and memorize emergency contact numbers |

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  • Source: PR Times
  • Category: News