May 26, 2022
No. 131
To further streamline electronic passport application procedures, the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will launch an online application and photo upload system on June 1. The system will allow applicants to fill out applications form, upload digital photos, and schedule appointments online.
The new digital system allowing for application forms to be filled out and appointments to be booked will significantly reduce waiting time at application acceptance counters. The photo upload function will allow applicants to ascertain if their passport photos meet requirements, reducing the likelihood of rejection at the acceptance counter. If an acceptable digital photo is successfully uploaded and the Short Passport Application Sheet is printed in color, this will eliminate the need to attach two physical photos and thereby eliminate related photo processing costs. After the new service is activated, R.O.C. (Taiwan) nationals still have the option to submit the paper form of the Short Passport Application Sheet currently in use.
The digital system may also be used by travel agencies commissioned to submit group passport applications, facilitating merging of application forms, and packaging of applications. This service for group applicants has simplified the application process since trial operations began on April 6. The online group service will be officially launched starting June 1 together with the online service for individuals.
To encourage nationals to take advantage of this new convenient service, BOCA will give away limited-edition passport covers to winners chosen from individuals who use the online passport application form and photo upload system and successfully submit printed application forms at an acceptance counter between June 1 and 15. The official BOCA LINE account will simultaneously hold a quiz and offer a limited number of prizes to winners. All are welcome to participate in this event.
BOCA will continue to promote consular affairs by carrying out its duties in accordance with the law, pursuing efficiency, and serving the public. In addition to the electronic passport application project, BOCA has also undertaken to enhance service quality and create a comfortable service environment by installing paintings of Taiwan’s scenic mountains and renovating public spaces in its facilities.
For further information regarding these new measures, please visit the Passport FAQs section of the BOCA website (www.boca.gov.tw) or call the passport service hotline at (02) 2343-2807 or 2343-2808. (E)