Taiwan Is Giving Away NT$5,000 Travel Vouchers to Foreign Tourists

Planning a trip to Taiwan? Well, you’re in luck because their government is giving away NT$5,000 (~S$216.78) consumption vouchers to foreign independent travellers. A total of 500,000 Taiwan tourism vouchers will be released through a lucky draw system from 1 May 2023 to 30 Jun 2025. This campaign is part of the nation’s plan to lure back visitors following the pandemic and to boost tourist spending. 

Also read: 35 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Taipei

Who is eligible to receive the vouchers?

To stand a chance of winning the Taiwan tourism vouchers, you must not hold a Republic of China (ROC) passport. Visitors holding foreign passports can take part in the lucky draw if they stay in Taiwan for three to 90 days. 

Travellers in tour groups cannot receive the vouchers. Travel agencies are already getting subsidies for groups heading to Taiwan. 

How do I get the Taiwan tourism vouchers?

First, you should register for the lucky draw on the official website one to seven days before arrival. The website will prompt you to provide your travel and contact information. You will also have to choose whether you wish to redeem Taiwan vouchers via a payment card or as five NT$1,000 vouchers that can be used to pay for your accommodation. 

After completing the registration, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. When you land at one of the participating airports (Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei International Airport, Taichung International Airport, and Kaohsiung International Airport), you should go to an activity counter in the arrival hall and scan the QR code to enter the draw. The tablet screen at the counter will tell you whether or not you have won.

If you’re one of the lucky winners, head to the airport’s redemption area. Show the relevant documents (your entry stamp, boarding pass, and an electronic copy of your round-trip tickets) to redeem your Taiwan tourism vouchers. 

Also read: Taiwan Dos and Don’ts: Etiquette Tips for First-Time Travellers

How can I use these tourism vouchers?

There are two ways to use the Taiwan vouchers: You may spend the NT$5,000 value through a payment card (like the iPass or Easy Card), or use it to pay for your accommodation. If you choose the former option, you can spend the vouchers at vendors that accept the cards. The maximum value for each payment is NT$1,500 and the cap on daily spending is NT$3,000. 

Those who choose to use the vouchers on accommodations will get five vouchers worth NT$1,000 each. These may be used at government-accredited hotels and hostels. Do note that the hotel or hostel will not refund the price difference if the cost is less than the voucher value. 

You must book through official channels (website, Facebook, or email) to use the discount vouchers. You may not use the vouchers if you book an accommodation via third-party platforms. Furthermore, Taiwan tourism vouchers can only be used by the winners and cannot be resold to others. 

Why is the Taiwan government giving away tourism vouchers?

The Taiwan tourism vouchers are part of a plan to attract six million foreign tourists by the end of 2023 and 12 million in 2024. The Taiwan government approved a NT$380 billion post-pandemic economic recovery package, which includes many incentives and subsidies for visitors. Taiwan attracted a record 11.86 million visitors in 2019 and aims to surpass that number. 

Also read: 15 Best Cafes in Taipei for Coffee, Brunch, Milk Tea, and More

Taiwan is known for its breathtaking natural attractions, cultural gems, and lively street food scene. These vouchers give us another reason to visit this beautiful country. Remember to register for the lucky draw before your departure and check out what Taiwan has to offer. 

If you aren’t lucky enough to win, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to stretch your budget in Taiwan, such as saving on accommodation. With that, it’s time to start planning your Taiwan adventure!