In a move that signifies deepening ties between Taiwan and Brunei, the Bruneian government has announced that Taiwanese passport holders can now enter Brunei for up to 14 days without a visa. The new policy came into effect on June 2, 2025, making Brunei the latest in a growing list of nations in the Asia-Pacific region granting visa-free entry to Taiwanese travelers.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia‑lung announced the milestone on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), calling it “a significant breakthrough” and highlighting its role in strengthening people‑to‑people connections and promoting mutual understanding between the nations.
“This is a milestone in our integrated diplomacy. We sincerely thank the Brunei government for its friendship and pragmatic spirit, and we look forward to even stronger ties ahead,” Lin said.
This announcement came just four days after the Philippines announced its own visa‑free entry policy for Taiwanese travelers starting July 1, underscoring a trend of closer bilateral relations within Southeast Asia and beyond.
Why This Matters: A Growing Network of Visa-Free Travel for Taiwanese
With the new Brunei agreement, Taiwanese passport holders can now access a growing number of destinations in the ASEAN region with relative ease. In recent years, nations such as Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines have embraced visa-free or streamlined entry policies for Taiwan, recognizing both the economic benefits of Taiwanese tourism and the shared security and economic interests between their nations.
Brunei’s decision is especially significant in the context of its long‑standing neutral foreign policy. By extending visa-free privileges to Taiwanese travelers, Brunei is making a calculated and symbolic statement that it sees Taiwan as a valuable partner — not only in commerce, tourism, and culture but also in its role within the wider Indo‑Pacific region.
Deeper Insights: The Strategic and Economic Importance
Brunei is one of the wealthiest nations in the world due to its oil and gas reserves. Its decision to open its borders to Taiwan is a signal of its interest in deepening economic connections beyond traditional energy commerce. According to data from the Ministry of Economic Affairs in Taiwan, bilateral trade between the two nations has grown steadily in recent years, with Taiwanese electronics and machinery finding a niche market in Brunei.
Moreover, Brunei’s move occurs amid intensifying global focus on the Indo‑Pacific as a strategic area of economic and political competition. In this context, every visa agreement, every cultural exchange, and every economic agreement forms an important piece in a larger puzzle.
For Taiwan, gaining access to Brunei allows its businesses and entrepreneurs a stronger foothold in the ASEAN market, and for Brunei, it potentially draws in higher tourist revenue and investment from one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.
What This Means for Taiwanese Tourists
For Taiwanese travelers, Brunei offers a unique and enriching experience. From its pristine rainforests and rich biodiversity to its Islamic heritage and bustling urban centers, Brunei provides an intriguing blend of culture, nature, and history. The 14‑day visa‑free entry allows for a comfortable exploration period — making trips for business meetings, eco‑tours, or spiritual retreats more accessible and convenient.
With direct flights available between Taiwan and Brunei, the travel experience is expected to be seamless. In the long run, the policy is anticipated to stimulate increased tourism traffic between the two nations and foster closer economic and cultural connections.
The Bigger Picture
This initiative highlights a wider trend across the Indo‑Pacific region: a shift towards more open policies that foster regional connectivity. Against a backdrop of rising tensions across the Taiwan Strait, closer connections with nations like Brunei, the Philippines, and others in ASEAN demonstrate the resilience of Taiwan’s global engagement and its ability to build soft power across the region.
It also reflects how smaller nations like Brunei can play a pivotal role in larger geopolitical narratives — acting as bridges between economic hubs and providing neutral spaces for dialogue and collaboration.
FAQs
When does the new visa-free entry to Brunei for Taiwanese passport holders take effect?
The policy takes effect from June 2, 2025.
How long can Taiwanese passport holders stay in Brunei?
Taiwanese travelers can stay in Brunei for up to 14 days visa-free.
What inspired Brunei to grant this visa-free entry?
Brunei aims to deepen bilateral relations with Taiwan, foster closer economic and cultural connections, and support mutual tourism and commerce.
Will other countries adopt similar policies for Taiwanese travelers?
Recent trends — like the Philippines’ announcement of visa-free entry starting July 1 — suggest that more nations in the Indo‑Pacific may adopt similar policies, recognizing Taiwan’s economic and cultural significance.
What can travelers expect when visiting Brunei?
Brunei offers a mix of rich heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for both business and leisure travel.
