First-Time Taiwan Travelers to Mainland China Eligible for Free Travel Permits: Save NT$1,500 Starting July

In a bid to encourage cross-strait tourism, family visits, and cultural exchanges, authorities in Beijing announced a significant travel incentive on June 25, 2025.

Effective from July 1, 2025, through December 31, 2027, Taiwan residents traveling to mainland China for the very first time (commonly referred to as 「first-time travelers」) will be completely exempt from application fees when applying for the Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents (commonly called the Taiwan Compatriot Card or 台胞證).

This initiative saves each eligible applicant roughly NT$1,500 in standard document fees, opening an attractive cost-saving window for travelers planning to explore destinations across the mainland.

Fee Waiver Details: Convenience and Savings

Under standard regulations, Taiwan residents applying for the card typically pay an issuance fee of approximately NT$1,500 for a standard 6-day processing timeline.

For individuals and families planning their inaugural trip, this represents a notable upfront expense. Co-formulated by cross-strait affairs agencies, the Ministry of Finance, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the National Immigration Administration, the promotional policy removes entry cost barriers, encouraging broader people-to-people exchanges.

Following implementation, first-time applicants need only cover third-party agency handling and photo preparation expenses, making trip preparation significantly more budget-friendly.

Top Destinations for First-Time Visitors

With its vast geography, rich historical tapestry, diverse regional culinary traditions, and ultra-modern metropolises, mainland China offers abundant travel options:

1. Fujian (Quanzhou & Xiamen): Renowned for coastal scenery and historic Minnan cultural heritage closely shared with Taiwan. Highlights include Gulangyu Island, Kaiyuan Temple, and tranquil seaside promenades with shared dialects and culinary customs.
2. Beijing: The cultural and historic heart, home to the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall, set alongside dynamic arts districts like 798 and Sanlitun.
3. Shanghai: An international financial capital where the historic European architecture of the Bund meets the soaring skyline of Lujiazui, alongside world-class dining and retail.
4. Xi’an: The ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, featuring the Terracotta Army, the Ancient City Wall, and the vibrant Muslim Quarter with authentic lamb paomo.
5. Hangzhou: Legendary for the poetic scenery of West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and Longjing tea plantations.

How to Apply

First-time applicants can submit paperwork via licensed travel agencies and designated document service centers. Standard requirements include:

• National Identity Card or Household Registration Transcript
• Recent 2-inch passport-style color photograph meeting official biometric specifications
• Completed official application form

Standard processing typically requires about six business days.

Travel Reminders

• Best Travel Seasons: Autumn (September to November) offers mild, clear weather across North, East, and Southwest China.
• Validity & Port Clearance: The physical card remains valid for 5 years with multi-entry privileges. Certain coastal ports like Xiamen also operate convenient single-entry port-visa facilities.
• Digital Preparation: Download and set up mobile payment apps (such as Alipay or WeChat Pay linked to international or local bank cards) and high-speed rail ticketing apps before departure.

This promotional policy offers an enticing opportunity for first-time travelers to experience mainland China’s landscapes, culinary traditions, and historic heritage at zero document cost.