Foreign nationals are temporarily barred from entering Taiwan starting Thursday (March 19) amid the continued global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In an advisory, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines said exemptions will be granted to Alien Resident Certificate holders, personnel on diplomatic or official business, persons who can prove they are fulfilling commercial and contractual obligations, and persons requiring special permission.

Those exempted are subject to a 14-day home quarantine upon arrival and relevant government agencies would be responsible for necessary arrangements on their lodging, movements and work venues in Taiwan.

“The aforementioned entry restrictions are subject to change depending on the development of the Covid-19 outbreak. Changes will be announced by the CECC (Central Epidemic Command Center),” TECO said.

TECO also reminded foreigners who are eligible for visa-free entry or holders of visitor/resident visa must possess relevant documents to qualify for exempted status.

“Apart from the criteria for exempted status listed above, Taiwan overseas missions may also grant special entry permits when there are clear and urgent reasons for a foreign national to visit Taiwan based on, for example, humanitarian grounds or approval by competent authorities in Taiwan,” it added. (PNA)