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What visitors should know about updated entry rules, taiwan from thursday is to reinstate visa exemptions for passport holders from 65 countries. mandatory quarantine for arriving travelers is to be lifted on oct. 13 , when restrictions on inbound and outbound tour groups are also to be lifted. the following is a list of answers to common questions regarding how the new regulations are to affect inbound international visitors.

• Staff writer, with CNA

Which passports will have visa-free entry privileges?

Eleven more countries on Thursday are to join 54 countries that were given visa-free privileges on Sept. 12. Passport holders from Japan, South Korea, Chile, Israel and Nicaragua can stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa.

Taiwan is also to resume 30-day visa-free stays for citizens of the Dominican Republic, Singapore and Malaysia.

People wait in the arrivals hall of Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport yesterday.

Passport holders from Thailand, Brunei and the Philippines are to be allowed to stay in Taiwan for 14 days visa-free.

Taiwan on Sept. 12 resumed 90-day visa-free entry for passport holders from the US, the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Monaco, North Macedonia, Romania, San Marino and nine of Taiwan’s 14 diplomatic allies: Tuvalu, Eswatini, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, the Marshall Islands, Palau, Paraguay and the Holy See.

Thirty-day visa-free visits are allowed for citizens of five other diplomatic allies: Belize, Nauru, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

How long should a passport be valid for?

With the exception of passport holders from the US and Japan, people from visa-exempt countries must have a passport that is valid for six months from the date of entry. Passports of citizens from the US and Japan only need to be valid for the duration of the planned stay.

Are there any specific groups of people from visa-free countries that are not be eligible for visa-free entry?

People born in China with Honduran passports must still apply for a visa before entering Taiwan.

Additionally, those who hold passports from Belize, Eswatini, Nauru, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Tuvalu, but whose place of birth was China, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Syria or Yemen, must also apply for a visa.

One country that was previously part of Taiwan’s visa-waiver entry program that was not included in the updated list is Russia.

Russian nationals could previously visit Taiwan for 21 days visa-free, but that program expired on July 31.

The new “3+4” quarantine policy is to be in place from Thursday until Oct. 12. What does it entail?

Arrivals are no longer to be subjected to a saliva-based polymerase chain reaction test, but will be issued four rapid tests. The first test should be taken on the day of arrival, or the first day of quarantine, with the result to be reported to a case worker via telephone, the Central Epidemic Command Center said.

The second test is to be taken on the third and last day of quarantine, while the third test is to be taken during a self-monitoring period.

The last rapid test should be taken if COVID-19 symptoms appear during quarantine or the monitoring period.

What are the rules for the four-day self-monitoring period?

Travelers during this period are to advised remain at home as much as possible. Work, buying necessities and eating out should be limited at each person’s discretion.

Travelers in the self-monitoring period must show a negative result from a rapid test taken within two days of leaving quarantine before going outside. They must also wear masks at all times when they go out, but they can remove their mask when dining out as long as social distancing measures are observed and dividers separate the individual from others.

These travelers can use public transportation during the four days.

However, if a positive rapid test result is shown and medical attention is necessary, transportation to a hospital must be via a designated COVID-19 taxi or a private vehicle.

Do visitors need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to entry?

Tour group participants require three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. Others can enter without being fully vaccinated, according to the British government’s foreign travel advice. Travelers should verify requirements with their local Taiwan representaive office before departure.

Will the “3+4” policy be applied in the same way to all arriving passengers?

No. There are separate rules for migrant workers and foreign students.

The policy is to be similar to the “7+0” policy for migrant workers. Arriving migrant workers must stay in a quarantine hotel or dormitory, with only one person per room, and are not to be allowed to go out for a seven-day period, except for an emergency situation such as seeking medical attention, the Workforce Development Agency said.

For foreign students, schools are to arrange a three-day quarantine, either at a designated hotel or dormitory. A four-day self-monitoring period is to follow, although classes cannot be attended.

What is the “0+7” policy set to be introduced on Oct. 13?

On this day, Taiwan is to end the three-day quarantine for arriving travelers, to be replaced by a seven-day self-monitoring period. Public transportation can be used if no symptoms of illness are present.

Will the “0+7” policy also apply to arriving migrant workers and foreign students?

A decision has not been made. The Workforce Development Agency said it is studying the issue, while the Ministry of Education has not made an announcement.

What is the difference between the current self-monitoring protocols and the new scheme?

There are no noteable differences. Travelers should reside in private rooms with separated bathrooms from housemates. Going outside is permitted if wearing a mask and testing negative for COVID-19 prior to leaving the premises.

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Arrival & Departure

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Restrictions on Entering Taiwan:  National Immigration Agency - Restrictions on Entering Taiwan (Chinese)

For the latest Taiwan entry/exit and quarantine information, please refer to the website of the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare:  Taiwan Center for Disease Control - Border Quarantine

Updated COVID-19 Response Actions

From August 15, 2023:

• If you have suspected symptoms of COVID-19 or receive a positive quick test, please follow the "0+n self-health management" approach. Under this system, no quarantine is required, but such individuals should avoid any unnecessary departures from their residence/hotel room and they should wear a mask at all times when they go out. These procedures should be followed until a negative quick test is received, or 5 days after the most recent positive test.
• Individuals with severe risk factors should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Foreign travelers may obtain tourist visas if they hold foreign passports or travel documents valid for more than six months in the Republic of China for purposes of sightseeing, business, family visits, study or training, medical treatments, or other legitimate activities. Visa requirements included one completed application form, incoming and outgoing travel tickets, one photo, documents verifying the purpose of the visits, and other relevant documents. The Visitor Visa Application Form can be downloaded from the website of the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The completed form should be submitted to an Embassies and Mission Abroad of the Republic of China for visa issuances.

For any further information, please visit the website of the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs . For any further questions about visa application, please contact: e-mail: [email protected] , TEL: +886-2-2343-2888.

• Countries eligible for Visa-Exempt Entry
• Countries eligible for Landing Visas
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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• Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

Custom hints for Passenger please check Directorate General of Customs' website at  Taipei Customs Office . 

Traveler Luggage Clearance

Foreign Currencies: value over US$10,000 should be declared. New Taiwan Currency: under NT$100,000. A traveler should apply for the permission to the Central Bank for amounts over such value. There is no restriction on the amount of gold that a traveler can bring out of Taiwan; however, a traveler should declare to the customs office. When carrying out gold valued over US$20,000 out of Taiwan, a traveler should apply for an export permit to the Bureau of Foreign Trade, MOEA (Tel : +886-2-2351-0271 ext. 352) and apply for customs clearance to the customs office.

NB: A traveler should register at the customs office counter when bringing out of Taiwan gold, foreign currencies or new taiwan currency in excess of the said amount. (Tel: +886-3-398-2308, +886-3-398-3222)

Inbound Travelers' Luggage Inspection Flow

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Taiwan

A small island off the coast of China, Taiwan is a destination known for its tropical temperatures and gorgeous landscapes. It boasts cultural attractions in its many beautiful cities as well as many stunning views in its many forests and national parks. This small but versatile island has something to offer to every type of traveller.

Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Taiwan. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Taiwan: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Most common May to October, throughout island.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Dengue and chikungunya are both present in Taiwan. The mosquito-borne infections pose a threat to travellers of all kinds. Ensure you bring repellent and netting for your trip.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?

A visa is not required for travel to Taiwan that last less than 90 days. Passports must have at least six months validity for entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Taiwan and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s climate varies between subtropical and tropical. But, the whole country is likely to have high temperatures and a humid climate for much of the year. Summers can be excessively hot and humid, with heavy rainfall and even typhoons. November to April has milder weather and milder temperatures. This is the most popular time for tourism.

• Taipei – In the capital city of Taipei, located in the northeast, rain is a common occurrence. Even in the winter months Taipei often receives abundant rainfall. In winter, the temperatures usually will not dip below 10. Summer temps can be in the 30’s.
• Tainan – A city located in the south of the island, Tainan experiences temperatures like Taipei. But, Tainan receives much less rainfall outside of monsoon season. This means that its winters and springs are much drier.
• Yushan – The city of Yushan is located in central Taiwan, in the mountains. Due to the altitude, Yushan has much colder temperatures than sea-level tropical cities. Temperatures often dip below freezing in the winters. Summers rarely reach higher than 15 degrees.

How Safe is Taiwan?

Taiwan is a country with minimal street crime as well as minimal violent crime. It’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings and be cautious with your belongings. But, very few visitors to Taiwan will be the victims of crime.

The most dangerous events in Taiwan are typhoons that occur in the humid summer months. Earthquakes can also cause hazardous situations. Pay attention to any local natural disaster warnings.

Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port

Most visitors will visit Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. But few travel out to Kaohsiung, a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of the island. Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port city, and it offers all the attractions of a busy, bustling city with cultural and historical jewels.

Some of the most well-known attractions in Kaohsiung are the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The largest Confucian temple in Taiwan is also nearby.

If you want to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, only an hour and a half trip from Kaohsiung is the Maolin National Scenic Area. This region has stunning forests, gorges, and waterfalls.

What Should I Pack for Taiwan?

Many American brands of goods and clothing are available in Taiwan, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared. When going to Taiwan, it’s always important to pack the essentials, such as:

• Rain Gear – With the unpredictable weather in the country, especially during the summer, a good umbrella and raincoat are a must.
• Light Layers – The climate in Taiwan tends to be very warm, so be sure to bring clothing that can keep you cool. But, the temperature can drop at nights, so a few outer layers are a good idea. If you’ll be in the mountains in winter, you’ll probably want some heavy layers too.
• Mosquito Repellent – Because Taiwan is a tropical island, mosquitoes are common. These insects often carry diseases of various types. Ensure you’re protected with repellents.
• Hand Sanitizer and Tissues – You may find that some public toilets in Taiwan are missing some basic necessities, such as hand soap or toilet paper. Be prepared for this by bringing a bottle of Purell and a pack of tissues everywhere you go.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Taiwan

If you are in Taiwan and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Office Taipei 26F, President International Tower No. 9-11, Song Gao Road, Xin Yin District Taipei 11073 Taiwan Telephone: +886 (2) 8758 2088 Emergency Phone: +886 2 8758 2088 Fax: +886 (2) 8758 2050 Email: [email protected]

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan? Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan? What is the Climate Like in Taiwan? How Safe is Taiwan? Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port What Should I Pack for Taiwan? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Taiwan

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Is it safe to travel to Taiwan right now? The latest travel advice after earthquake and aftershocks

More than 200 aftershocks have hit the country following the April 3 earthquake

Taiwan  is one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations, with a magnetic capital city in  Taipei  and a stunning mountainous landscape. Located at the crossover of the South and East China Sea, the island nation offers travellers a long list of adventures .

However, Taiwan experienced the strongest earthquake in 25 years earlier this month, as a 7.4 magnitude quake struck the east coast of the island on April 3. It  was also felt in southern Japan , eastern China and the Philippines .

Just over two weeks on, more  than 200 aftershock tremors were felt throughout the night on April 23. H ere is what we know so far about travelling to Taiwan in the wake of the latest earthquakes. 

Is it safe to travel to Taiwan? 

Travelling to the country has not been officially advised against and no casualties were reported after the tremors early this morning. Schools and offices closed on Tuesday in  Hualien, which was at the epicentre of the quakes . One of the more than 200 tremors felt last night had a magnitude of 6.1. It struck at 2.30am local time, but the aftershocks reportedly continued through the night and caused buildings to sway, according to Al Jazeera . 

Where was impacted by the earthquake? 

The epicentre of the original earthquake was around 18km south of Hualien, with the surrounding county being the worst-hit area, according to local officials.

Today’s aftershocks were again centred around Hualien on the east coast and caused buildings across large parts of northern, eastern and western Taiwan to shake. A 5.8 tremor was also felt in the capital of Taipei at 8am local time this morning. 

How close is Taiwan to Japan? 

Taiwan and Japan are 2,163km apart. While this might sound like a long distance, tsunamis have been known to travel up to 5,000km, and small tsunami waves were experienced on the coasts of Japan’s Miyako and Yaeyama islands after the initial April 3 quake. 

What’s the latest UK Foreign Office advice? 

The UK Foreign Office updated its Taiwan travel advice page on April 3, stating: ‘On Wednesday 3 April 2024 at 07.58 local time, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Eastern Taiwan with shocks felt all across the island including Taipei. Aftershocks continue to occur and you should expect travel disruption. You should consult the Central Weather Administration website and other official sources for more information.’

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip? 

Until the UK Foreign Office issues advice against all but essential travel to Taiwan, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your travel plans without any penalties. To see what can be done, it’d be best to contact your accommodation, flight or trip provider.  

Have flights to Taiwan and Japan been cancelled?

So far, there’s no news of flights to either Taiwan or Japan being cancelled, but just to be sure, it’s best to check with your airline directly if you have one booked. 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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17 things you need to know before visiting Taiwan

Oct 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, but it doesn’t hurt to know a few things before you go © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, with easy-to-navigate transport systems, handy convenience stores at every turn, and endless restaurants that just hit the spot. 

That said, it doesn’t hurt to prepare a little before you go. Here are some tips from a Taipei resident of seven years.  

1. Book accommodation early

Taiwan’s sweeping range of lodgings means you can live like a multimillionaire or a monk, although it's at the midrange hostels and B&Bs that you’ll get the best deals.

Rooms sell like hot dumplings during summer, Lunar New Year and national holidays. Book at least two months ahead. In Kenting , Jiufen  and Alishan , spots favored by local vacationers and glampers, early reservation is key. Aside from pitching a tent, the cheapest sleeps are at temples with guest rooms.

To hike Taiwan’s highest mountains , you’ll need a permit or two, and the process can take weeks. If you want to stay in the cabins , you’ll need to apply for those as well. The process may not be a walk in the park, but Taiwan’s breathtaking high mountains will reward you generously.  

2. Make restaurant reservations

Eating will be an important part of your trip, and reservations are strongly advised for weekend dining. A few days will do for most restaurants, though Michelin-starred tables, such as RAW and Le Palais , need to be reserved a month or two in advance. Book by phone or on Facebook. A growing number of places will also let you reserve with Google. For walk-in-only hotspots, get there early or get ready to see Taiwan’s famous queue culture in action. 

Dinner service usually begins at 5:30pm and starts winding down in less than three hours. This means your restaurant options grow thin after 8pm — but then street food-filled night markets are always an option.

3. Tap and go with EasyCard or iPass

EasyCard is Taiwan’s contactless smartcard that you can use on the metro, local buses and trains (except high-speed rail), as well as convenience stores and supermarkets. You’ll also need it (and a local phone number) for Youbike, Taiwan’s electronic bike-sharing service. The card itself costs NT$100, and you can top up at any metro station or convenience store. Any unused money is refundable, so don’t lose your card.

iPass is Kaohsiung ’s version of Easycard, which is issued by Taipei. The two are interchangeable. 

4. Download those transportation apps

The government’s bilingual apps are wonderful for checking routes, fares, arrival and departure times, and even whether or not you can bring your cello on board. You can purchase digital train tickets via T Express  (for high-speed rail) and 台鐵e訂通  (for railway), or simply use the apps for information and buy tickets at the station counters.

Taiwan’s metro systems are straightforward, but apps like Taipei's  台北捷運Go  can help you make better decisions about whether to get the day pass or whether you should just bus it. Taiwan’s bus apps give similar information to Google Maps but with more accurate arrival times.

5. Convenience stores are little shops of wonder

Taiwan’s convenience stores let you buy prepaid phone cards, print and photocopy, buy train and concert tickets, send and pick up local packages and use the ATMs.  You can do most of this on an automated kiosk while basking in the aroma of tea-infused eggs, roasted sweet potatoes or whatever decent-tasting rice or pasta dish a fellow customer happens to be reheating for indoor-seated enjoyment. Bear in mind not all kiosks have full English translations, so ask a staff member for help if you need it. Many convenience stores have toilets open to the public, too.

6. Pack enough prescription meds for your trip

If you’re on a specific antidepressant drug, blood pressure medication,or contraceptive pill, bring enough with you to be safe. If you need flu and cold medicine, head over to Watson’s or Cosmed for Tylenol or its local equivalents.  

Sanitary products can be easily purchased from supermarkets and drugstores. Some cafes and restaurants even provide them for free in the women’s toilets. 

7. Be considerate on public transport

The metro  and  buses  have priority seating that's a different color from the other seats. Most Taiwanese who are not elderly, pregnant or physically challenged would never think of sitting there, but in recent years, detractors have been questioning whether age and appearance are accurate reflections of need, arguing that it’s fine for anyone to use the seats until someone needier comes along. Whatever you choose to do, it helps to be aware of these dynamics.

Taiwanese metro commuters take the 'no eating and drinking' rule very seriously. Chewing gum and sips of water are frowned upon. Carriages are also quiet. Your chances of overhearing someone’s life story are disappointingly low. 

8. Tipping is not customary (but it is appreciated)

You are not expected to tip at restaurants, whether or not they levy a 10% to 15% service charge (many do). Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but you may hear a brighter " xie xie"  (thank you) if you round up to the next dollar. It is courteous to give the porter at better hotels NT$100. If you’re happy with a massage or a tour guide, add 10% to the bill. 

9. Wear whatever you like, but dress respectfully at temples 

While middle-aged Taiwanese tend to dress conservatively, young urbanites in Taipei and Kaohsiung are sartorially quite open-minded. That said, clothes that show more skin, such as crop tops or halternecks, are much less commonly worn than in London or New York, for example, and may get some stares.

It’s a different story when you visit a temple – here, wearing clothes that cover the thighs, shoulders and midriff is regarded as a sign of respect. 

10. Take off your shoes when entering homes 

Taiwanese do not wear outdoor shoes inside their homes. If your host offers you a pair of slippers, accept or propose going with socks. 

It is not customary to remove shoes before entering a temple, especially in urban temples, though the rule may be enforced in a particular hall housing a sacred relic or a fragile heritage building.

11. You can get by without much Chinese

Most Taiwanese in the major cities know at least some English. Naturally, the further you go from the metropolitan areas, the less prevalent the language is. But with the friendliness and hospitality of the Taiwanese, and some help from good old Google Translate, you can get pretty far.

12. Bring your reusable water bottle

Taiwan’s tap water is officially deemed safe to drink; however, it’s hard to know for sure if the pipes in a particular building are up to par. 

Using your own drinking water bottle is by far the cheapest, greenest and safest way to hydrate. There are water fountains in all metro and train stations, public facilities, such as information centers, libraries and museums, and even temples. When checking in at your lodging, ask reception where the water dispenser is.

13. Taiwan is affected by frequent natural disasters

This includes earthquakes, typhoons, floods and landslides. Avoid mountainous areas after quakes and heavy rains. Strong winds often mess up sailing schedules to and from Taiwan’s islands, and cross-island buses may stop running after a landslide. Check with the relevant authorities before heading to the station or pier with your umbrella. 

14. Be wary of where you smoke

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and metro stations, and this is strictly enforced. Smoking at alfresco cafes is common.

15. Taiwan is great for solo women travelers 

Taiwan has a very low crime rate, and many solo women travelers report feeling safer here than in other destinations. Some train and metro stations have nocturnal women-only wait zones that you can take advantage of, especially if traveling alone at night. 

16. Taiwan is a welcoming place for LGBTIQ+ travelers

The first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, Taiwan is friendly and progressive, especially Taipei, home of the Chinese-speaking world's most vibrant Pride parade. Kaohsiung, which has its own Pride, comes a close second. In terms of nightlife, however, Taipei wins hands down. Useful resources include Utopia , Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association  and Taiwan LGBT Pride .

17. Taiwan is fantastic for toilets

Free and usually spotlessly clean facilities are everywhere. While most public toilets are the squat style, there are usually at least one or two stalls with sit-down facilities. They often also have toilet paper. Western-style toilets are standard in hotels and apartments. Many restaurants ask you not to flush used toilet paper but to put it in the wastebasket beside your throne.

This article was first published Oct 22, 2022 and updated Oct 29, 2023.

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Find cheap flights from London to Taiwan from £281

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from london to taiwan departing on 30/5. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to taiwan.

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Good to know - Cheap tickets from London to Taiwan

Faqs - booking taiwan flights, what direct flights are available between london and taiwan.

Passengers travelling between London and Taiwan can fly direct from London Gatwick to Taipei City Airport with China Airlines. You can also fly directly from London Heathrow to Taipei City with EVA Air. This journey usually takes 14-17h. On flights from most other London airports, you will usually have to change planes once on route. The location of this stopover will vary depending on which airline you choose and which destination you fly to. For example, if you fly from Gatwick with Turkish Airlines, you will usually stopover in Istanbul. However, if you fly with Cathay Pacific, you will usually stop in Hong Kong.

What visa do I need to visit Taiwan?

Passengers from the UK do not need a visa to enter Taiwan. As long as you have a valid British passport, you can stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days. Visitors can extend this period by another 90 days if travel plans change; however, for stays longer than 180 days, you will need to apply for a visa before you travel. Your passport should also remain valid for at least six months after the date of your arrival.

Where should I fly to if I want to visit multiple cities in Taiwan?

Taichung City is one of Taiwan’s more central districts and offers convenient and affordable rail links to other major cities, such as Kaohsiung City and Taipei City. For instance, you can reach Taipei City by train from Taichung City in roughly 2h. Train tickets for this trip usually cost around NT$600 (£16). UK flights to Taichung City are available from London Heathrow with Cathay Pacific.

How can I reduce my carbon emissions when flying from London to Taiwan?

Passengers flying from London Heathrow to Kaohsiung City Airport with British Airways and Cathay Pacific can reduce their emissions by around 39% compared with other routes and airlines. However, choosing low emissions routes can increase the price of your travel.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from London to Taiwan?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from London to Taiwan.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from London to Taiwan?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Taiwan from London is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from London to Taiwan?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Taiwan with an airline and back to London with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from London to Taiwan?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Taiwan from London up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from London to Taiwan

• Morning departure is around 6% cheaper than an evening flight, on average*.
• If you plan to hike during your stay in Taiwan, flying to Taichung City Airport (RMQ) will give you convenient access to popular routes like Dakeng Trail No. 5, which takes you through spectacular forest scenery. You can reach this trail by road in around 35min from the city.
• When you arrive on a late flight and want a quick commute to the city centre, both Taipei City Airport (TPE) and Kaohsiung City Airport (KHH) are located just a roughly 30min train ride from central areas.
• Passengers flying through London Heathrow Airport (LHR) can pay to use No 1 Lounge, which is located in the departures area of Terminal 3. Entry to the lounge costs around £34 and food and drinks are served inside.
• If you’re travelling with children, Gatwick Airport (LGW) offers a special family lane at check-in, to give people with pushchairs extra time to board. You can also pre-order baby food or bottled formula and collect it at the Boots chemist inside the departures area, past security.
• Need somewhere to store luggage when you arrive in Taiwan? Passengers landing at Taichung Airport will find storage lockers located in the arrival hall. Storage costs around NT$1,130 (£30) for small items and NT$1,900 (£50) for large items over a 3h period.

Top 5 airlines serving from London to Taiwan

On time. Great service. Good food. Good movies. All good!

The flight was ok. The person who brings tea and coffee totally forgot about us or just walked past at both meals. And special attention is given if you are Taiwanese

Everything was excellent service was good.Only one problem my trip san francisco to tapie was good but the Taipe to HongKong we change gate 3times a lot of walking n everyone has to rush around from gate to gate.By the time to board our flight i felt soo sick from running from one gate to another.That was the only problem i face

A wonderful new plane. Great menu. Professional service. You and your wife were completely satisfied.

Fast and efficient boarding. Flight was on time. Service was very good for our long flight. First time flying with this airline and I would highly recommend.

Eva Air's Business Class is pretty decent. With the given price, I think that the food can be better.

Pleasant, comfortable, and entertaining. All told, ZERO issues with it. And sadly, so far the flight was WAY more comfortable than the hellhole that is "Lambug Beach Resort" at Badian Beach!

Great food in business class. Great service by staff. They were all so very nice

It was a pleasant fly with Eva Air from NYC to Taipei. The crew were friendly and the food was exceeded my expectation.

Poor food on board, but seats are too small and uncomfortable

Very good , the weather was terrible, but i admired the professionality and politeness and care from the crew, and the excellent contition of the plane

My flight to Los Angeles was canceled Had to book another flight and you charged me extra $500 Very bad experience

Decent flight, staff was very good, especially with the turbulence during the flight due to weather. Comfort was about par with other airlines but since it was a quick flight, was not much of an issue for us.

It was a 2 hour flight to Taiwan. Lunch was served. China Airlines goes above and beyond for their passengers.

They were helpful, considerate with asking us for standby preboarding with our infant, gave us toys and excellent service onboard. They were always on time, even early boarding once! All our luggage arrived intact, and they even brought our baby car seat to oversized for us. We love China Airlines!

Great flight, although I flew out of ONT and that is where my car is, lol

Free Wi-Fi could have been better in the Airport.

3 of the 4 flights had delays despite the weather being fine, but still managed to make all connections

Ask flight attendant for water during flight and she was a little rude get the water.

Baggage made it successfully to destination despite short layover. Appreciate that.

We bought the business class tickets. The check-in staff and onboard crew were excellent, providing commendable service throughout. However, it was disappointing to find that China Southern Airlines does not have a lounge at SFO. Instead, passengers were provided with a $35 per person food voucher, which fell short of expectations. Furthermore, the quality of the onboard food left much to be desired, marking a significant decline compared to our previous flight experience in 2019, prior to the pandemic.

Wuhan - Dubai. Old plane: 1. Only USB charger. No power outlet to plug in.. 2. Super narrow seat layout 3. Toilet cover consistently fell down and hit my back when sitting on it.. :( 4. Entertainment system touch screen not sensitive, and need to press hard or use finger tips to hit. Crew were very nice and accommodating though.

1. I got very poor check in experience with the counter lady . This is the first airline I ever experienced that no combine check in weight allow . Even we have 4 of us but weight counter by piece . So we wasted lot of time argue and repack . This is super crazy 2. Next I left my Samsung tablet on the plane . And I started to escalate and finally spoke to southern airline lost and found in Malaysia and the amazing answer she give is : system nothing found and please try to call southern airline in china 🧐 . I have been flying many other airlines but this is my first encounterment with such irresponsible airline response and no empathy given to customer . My feeling is nobody bother whether how customer like me feel and I’m just too small for the management to take note .

No red vine, no whiskey, no vodka. No that I wanted all of them at once but still...

No good but was short flight. Both of our China Southern flights were on time. No surprises.

The flight was okay it was the kayak customer service that was poor, I have been trying to change my name on my flight ticket 3 days before my flight and nothing got done about it even tho I messaged so many times and phoned, all I got in return was that is was being processed and still to this day nothing has been done about it, I think it’s disgusting and un needed stress to the trip.

The food was perfect. The boarding process is a bit long. Given the late boarding time, I felt very tired by the time I was seated.

Quality flight from start to finish. Customer service is evidently very important to this company. The staff really exceeded expectations.

Traveling with the Chinese airlines , their service superior to the US Airlines , they are much more friendly and the seats are comfortable , In the past I flew with United , now ,United Airline will become history for me .

Great staff and food. Seats pretty uncomfortable but plenty of legroom. Entertainment system outdated.

The landings were smooth . Being unable to check-in online was terribly stressful and the queue at Haneda exemely long. We paid extra for window seats and did not get them.

How do you run out of beer after one hour of a twelve hour flight?!

Flight was fine, however we were not able to check in online, this adds to travel stress. Luckily check-in at Heathrow was quick, but we did not get the seats we paid extra for. We paid for a window and 2 aisle seats from Shanghai to Tokyo leg, but they changed us to middle seats. Not good :(

Multiple delays, with no explanation. Caused us to almost miss our connector. The airline made no effort when we arrived in Shanghai to help us make it to our next flight with the same airline.

I will never fly through China again. Maybe it was the mandatory retinal scan just to transfer to another flight or the complete set of fingerprints they require. There are many better and inexpensive flights to Asia if you look.

The flight was delayed for almost 5 hours, but I understand that it was not up to the company, however how they could handle the situation better, they never apologized for that delay, moreover despite passengers being there for 7 hours only thing they did was to give a bowl of instant noodles, afterwards on the plane tiny snacks, people were there starting from lunch time and we’ve arrived to destination at almost midnight

Flight was delayed for 2 hours for no reason, then we spent almost an hour after boarding because of the weather conditions. If we left on time we could avoid that 😾

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Taiwan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 11, 2023, taiwan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Read the  Taiwan International Travel Information  page for additional information on travel to Taiwan.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan:

• Follow the U.S. Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the  security report for Taiwan  from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

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China to lift Taiwan tourism restrictions for Fujian residents

Decision announced to delegation from Beijing-friendly KMT opposition

BEIJING -- Tourist visits to Taiwan by residents of China's Fujian province will be permitted to resume, the mainland's Ministry of Culture and Tourism said Sunday.

Vice Minister Rao Quan announced the eased restrictions to a visiting delegation from Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), which seeks closer ties with China. The move comes ahead of May's inauguration of Taiwanese President-elect William Lai, whom China calls a separatist.

China's Xi meets Taiwan's ex-leader Ma amid cross-strait tensions

Taiwan president-elect picks team of security, diplomatic heavyweights, china wants ability to invade taiwan by 2027, u.s. admiral says, taiwan's lai poised to build on tsai's southeast asia outreach, analysis: why xi and biden chose the same day to send a message on taiwan, thailand smiles at both taiwan and china as it courts ev investment, latest on politics, china enlists tencent, weibo and douyin to protect state secrets, kishida cabinet's disapproval rating reaches record high, china to hold key communist party plenum in july amid economic pressure, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

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• Going and being abroad
• British nationals overseas

Living in Taiwan

How to access the essential information you need when living in Taiwan as a British national.

This information is provided as a general guide and is based upon information provided to the British Office Taipei by the relevant local authorities and may be subject to change at any time with little or no notice. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the British Office Taipei will not be liable for any inaccuracies in this information. British nationals wishing to obtain any further information must contact the relevant local authority.

Introduction

This guide sets out useful information for British nationals residing in Taiwan. We are unable to provide any guidance on general lifestyle enquiries apart from the information and links listed below. This information supplements the travel advice for Taiwan , which should also be read. See also UK help and services in Taiwan .

You should follow the advice of the Taiwan government and your local authority. You can also read Taiwan travel advice for our latest guidance.

Visas and residency

Check the entry requirements for Taiwan in our travel advice page.

Youth Mobility Scheme Visas

British nationals in Taiwan who hold a Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa are able to apply to switch in Taiwan to a working visa or a visa to study a degree course at undergraduate level or higher.

All applications should be submitted to the  Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA)  for consideration. You will then be able to apply for an Alien Resident Card at your local  National Immigration Agency (NIA) Service Center  once your application has been approved. You should contact the  Bureau of Consular Affairs  or  National Immigration Agency  for further information.

Passports and travel

You can apply for or renew your British passport from Taiwan. Check the Taiwan travel advice for passport validity requirements.

Getting married in Taiwan

If you are considering marrying in Taiwan, please read this guide in its entirety.

Marriage in Taiwan key points

British nationals are able to marry in Taiwan

both same-sex and opposite-sex marriage is recognised in Taiwan

it is not possible to have a civil partnership ceremony in Taiwan

in order to marry in Taiwan, a British national will need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from the UK. This document must be obtained from the UK

the British Office Taipei is unable to issue a Certificate of No Impediment, or produce any other document or statement in relation to marriage in Taiwan

the British Office Taipei is unable to conduct marriage or civil partnership ceremonies

a Certificate of No Impediment for use in Taiwan cannot be obtained from another British diplomatic mission in the region. If you wish to marry in Taiwan, you should obtain the Certificate of No Impediment from the UK and follow the procedures outlined below

Same sex marriage

In May 2019, Taiwan’s parliament passed a law to recognise same-sex marriage. The rights of married same-sex couples are the same as those of heterosexual couples, except that same-sex couples cannot adopt, other than to adopt the children of one of the parties to the marriage. You may only marry a same-sex partner from a country or legal jurisdiction that also recognises same-sex marriage.

This guidance applies to both opposite-sex and same-sex couples seeking to marry in Taiwan.

How to Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)

To obtain a Certificate of No Impediment, you should contact your local registry office in the UK and request a Certificate of No Impediment be issued to you. The staff will be able to provide you with a complete list of requirements you will need to meet, including a public notice period, before the document can be issued.

Once you have the document it will need to be legalised by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London.

In order to have the document authenticated, you will then need to make an appointment with the Taipei Representative Office (TRO) in London, 50 Grosvenor Gardens, London, SW1W 0EB, telephone: 020 7881 2650 or in Edinburgh, 1 Melville Street, Edinburgh EH3 7PE, telephone: 01312 206886.

You will need to obtain a translation of the legalised and authenticated Certificate of No Impediment. After this, the document can be presented to the Household Registration Bureau in Taiwan. Unless the document has been both legalised by the FCDO and then authenticated by the TRO, it will not be valid for use in Taiwan.

Alternatives to marrying in Taiwan

Some British nationals choose to marry in Hong Kong , which does not require a Certificate of No Impediment in order to marry.

If you are considering this option you should conduct your own research into the relevant requirements for Hong Kong and Taiwan.

It is not currently possible for same sex couples to marry in Hong Kong.

Using alternatives to a Certificate of No Impediment

British nationals should not attempt to submit a search of the historical marriage indexes from the General Register Office in the UK in lieu of a Certificate of No Impediment. This is not a valid document for the purpose of marriage in Taiwan.

Marriage records only become available to the General Register Office 18 months after the marriage is registered, and this fact is stated on the letter issued in relation to such an application. Because the 18 month period preceding the application is not covered by the search, a letter or certificate from the General Register Office stating that there is no record of marriage does not meet the requirements for a British national who wishes to marry in Taiwan.

If you submit this document in Taiwan, even if it initially appears to be accepted, you could face complications or legal issues at a later stage. If you wish to marry in Taiwan, you should obtain a Certificate of No Impediment.

Further Information

If you have any further questions regarding marriage in Taiwan you should contact the Household Registration Department . The Department can also be contacted via the Ministry of Interior Helpline. Dial 1996 then select option 9 to be connected to the call centre operator. The Household Registration Department has offices throughout Taiwan, including Taipei .

Importing personal medication from the UK

Most medications and treatments are available in Taiwan, however, some British nationals who live in Taiwan may require medications from the UK. In Taiwan, the import of medication for personal use is regulated and controlled by the Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) .

The basic process to import medication for personal use is:

register your details at the relevant TFDA website . Please note that the website is only available in Chinese

complete the online application form for importing medication for personal use (個人自用藥品專案進口申請) and provide any supporting documents requested. You would usually be asked for; the prescription for the medication, a photocopy/picture of the box cover of the medication, and a medical certificate or diagnosis from a doctor

the authorities will notify you by email once the importation certificate has been issued (usually within 14-30 days of application)

you will need to pick the medication up from customs in person and present your importation certificate. Your ID documents much match those on your medication

The British Office Taipei is unable to offer any assistance or personalised advice about importing medication from the UK. If you have any further questions about how to import personal medication from the UK, you should contact the TFDA and ensure you understand the rules and regulations before proceeding.

Exchanging UK driving licence for Taiwan driving licence

About the licence exchange agreement.

The UK and Taiwan have entered into an arrangement that will enable the exchange of driving licences issued by the respective Licensing Authorities. This means holders of a valid UK driving licence who are currently resident in Taiwan will be able to exchange their licence for a Taiwan one, and vice versa for holders of Taiwan driving licences in the UK. The arrangement will come into effect from 1 January 2022, when applications will open.

An exchanged Taiwan driving licence will last for 6 years from the date of issue. In line with the standard requirements of UK legislation your existing UK licence must be returned to the DVLA by Taiwanese authorities to enable the exchange of licences. You will be able to drive in the UK for up to 12 months each time you enter the UK as a visitor, using your exchanged Taiwan licence. If you return to the UK more permanently you may apply to the DVLA to exchange your Taiwan licence back for your UK licence.

The new arrangement provides you with another option whereby you can drive in Taiwan, in addition to the existing options of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the UK and getting that endorsed locally, or of taking a local driving test to obtain a Taiwan driving licence. You may wish to compare each option to decide which route is more appropriate to your personal needs and circumstances (please see further guidance below).

Full details of the Licence Exchange Arrangement are detailed in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that underpins this arrangement.

Eligibility

Foreign nationals in Taiwan with a valid UK driving licence and a permit issued by Taiwanese authorities to stay or reside in Taiwan for more than 6 months, e.g. an ARC. An application can only be submitted after you have entered Taiwan.

How to apply

• Application submission: you, or someone applying on your behalf, should visit a local Motor Vehicles Office in Taiwan to submit the following required documents for the licence exchange. Any person applying on your behalf will need to bring their own ID.
• NT$200 application fee
• passport (original and photocopy)
• valid UK driving licence issued by the DVLA (original and photocopy of both sides)
• if the driving licence has been lost, stolen or damaged, please provide instead a “Certificate of Entitlement” issued by the DVLA within six months prior to the date of application
• permit by Taiwanese authorities to stay or reside in Taiwan for more than 6 months, e.g. Alien Resident Certificate or Alien Permanent Resident Certificate
• 3x one-inch passport-style ID photos in colour with a plain background, showing clear facial features and no headgear, taken within the past two years
• “Check Code” issued by the DVLA via GOV.UK (please generate a check code yourself using our online service , and print out the licence information summary which includes the check code. You will need to enter your driving licence number, National Insurance number and registered postcode. The process will take about 5 minutes to complete.)
• health certificate for driving licence issued by a Taiwan public hospital, after performing a simple physical health check (Note: Motor Vehicle Offices are typically close to hospitals that offer walk-in health checks for this purpose.)
• Taiwan Certificate of Entry and Exit Dates (see guidance on National Immigration Agency )

2. Verification process: the Motor Vehicles Office will send your UK driving licence, supporting documentation and DVLA “check code” to Taiwan’s Directorate General of Highways (DGH), who will liaise with the Taipei Representative Office in the UK (TRO) to verify the validity of the UK driving licence. The verification process typically takes at least 5-7 working days, but it may take significantly longer in the first months of this arrangement going live, as the Taiwanese authorities deal with high initial demand.

3. Collection: once the documentation has been verified, the local Motor Vehicles Office will inform you of the result and issue a Taiwan driving licence for collection. Your UK licence will be returned to the DVLA for you as required by UK legislation.

Note: you can still drive in the UK for up to 12 months whenever you return to the UK as a visitor, using your exchanged Taiwan driving licence. The 12 month period starts each time you enter the UK.

Help and support

For further information on the application process, please speak to staff at the local Motor Vehicles Office, consult Taiwan’s Directorate General of Highways website , or see the additional guidance below.

We are aware that the Taiwanese authorities have received a very high volume of applications since the scheme was launched on 1 January 2022, so your application may take longer than usual to process.

To enquire about the status of your application after you have submitted your documents for verification, please contact your local Motor Vehicles Office in the first instance.

Note: Motor Vehicles Offices in Taiwan are responsible for processing applications on behalf of the Directorate General of Highways. British Office Taipei will not be able to provide support or advice on individual applications.

For those in the UK with a Taiwan driving licence who wish to exchange theirs for a UK driving licence, please contact Taipei Representative Office in the UK.

Further guidance

Options for driving in Taiwan: There are three key options for holders of a UK driving licence to drive in Taiwan. You may wish to compare each option to decide which route is more appropriate to your personal needs and circumstances.

The first option is to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the UK from a UK Post Office. You will not be able to buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. Once in Taiwan, you will need to take your passport, IDP and a passport photograph to a local Motor Vehicles Office to get your IDP validated. This option has the shortest and simplest procedure and can be completed on the same day. Your validated IDP will only last up to 12 months, and a new IDP needs to be obtained and validated thereafter to continue driving in Taiwan. This option is recommended for UK travellers and short term residents in Taiwan, such as temporary workers and students.

The second, new option, is to exchange your UK driving licence for a Taiwan one at your local Motor Vehicles Office using this Licence Exchange Arrangement. Your Taiwan licence will expire 6 years from the date of issue. You will need to provide more supporting documents during the application process, and in line with the standard requirements of UK legislation your existing UK licence must be returned to the DVLA by Taiwanese authorities. But you will still be able to drive in the UK using your Taiwan licence as a visitor for up to 12 months, each time you enter the UK. If you plan to return to the UK to live, you will be able to exchange your Taiwan licence back for your UK one. This arrangement offers significant benefits to long-term UK residents in Taiwan.

The third option is to take a local driving test to obtain a Taiwan driving licence, while retaining your existing UK licence. This option requires more time commitment, but long-term UK residents in Taiwan may also wish to consider this option.

Duration of exchanged Taiwan driving licence: your exchanged Taiwan licence will last 6 years regardless of the expiration date of your UK driving licence or ARC.

Renewing your exchanged Taiwan driving licence: you will be able to renew your exchanged Taiwan driving licence by presenting a valid ARC to any local Motor Vehicles Office.

Applying on your behalf: anyone can apply to exchange your UK licence on your behalf as long as they present their own ID and provide the required documentation. They will not/not need a separate letter of authorisation from you.

Delays to your application: the application process typically takes 5-7 days. Please speak to your the local Motor Vehicles Office about the status of your application. If it is approaching two weeks and you still have not heard back, then please contact Mr. LIN Chia-Min at the Directorate General of Highways by calling 02-2307-0123 #2511 or emailing [email protected] . Please note: British Office Taipei will not be able to provide support on individual applications.

Returning your UK licence: In line with the standard requirements of UK legislation your existing UK licence must be returned to the DVLA by Taiwanese authorities to enable the exchange of licences. The Motor Vehicles Office will do so on your behalf after your application is successful.

Driving in the UK as a visitor: If you need to drive in the UK during short term visits, your Taiwan licence will allow you to drive the categories of vehicle on your licence in the UK for up to 12 months from the date you arrive in the UK. The 12 month period starts each time you enter the UK.

If you are returning to the UK permanently or for longer than 12 months, you may exchange your Taiwan licence back for your UK licence before the 12 month period is over. Your Taiwan licence will then be returned to Taiwanese authorities by DVLA. If you return to Taiwan again in future, you may follow the same licence exchange procedure to re-obtain your Taiwan licence.

Re-applying to get your UK driving licence back: see step-by-step instructions .

Emergencies

You can contact the emergency services by calling 110 (police), 119 (ambulance and fire) and 113 (the domestic abuse and sexual assault hotline).

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the  nearest British office, embassy, consulate or high commission .

Returning to the UK

Read the guidance on returning to the UK permanently which includes information on bringing family members, tax and access to services.

Added 4 new sections - visa and residency, passports and travel, emergencies and returning to the UK

Added new section explaining how to exchange UK driving licence for Taiwan driving licence.

Coronavirus section added with a link to guidance on vaccines.

Added section 'Importing Personal Medication from the UK’

Added link to Post Office for applying for International Driving Permit (IDP).

minor change

to correct the typo

correct typo

to update the failure link

Change the format based on the guidance

First published.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Child seriously hurt as number of dead rises after airstrike in Odesa seaside park

The Ukrainian authorities say the number of victims from a Russian airstrike in Odesa has risen, with many more injured. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Tuesday 30 April 2024 11:19, UK

• Number of victims from Odesa attack rises to five, with child badly hurt
• Watch: Massive building in flames after attack
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Live events elsewhere mean we are leaving our coverage of the Ukraine war there for the day. 

The main development this morning was the rise in the number of people killed in a Russian strike on Odesa yesterday to five.

Read more details in our posts below - and we'll be back with rolling updates and analysis of the war soon.

At least two people have been killed in another Russian strike, this time targeting the northeastern city of Kharkiv, local officials say.

Six more have been wounded in the attack, which Governor Oleh Synehubov says was carried out using guided bombs, according to preliminary information.

The attack damaged a residential building in one of the city districts, Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said. 

Emergency services are on the scene, local officials say.

Yesterday, a woman was reportedly injured after a "series of explosions" hit the city, according to the mayor.

Russia denies targeting civilians in the war that is now in its third year.

As we reported yesterday, a Russian missile attack targeted an educational institution in a popular seafront park in the Black Sea port of Odesa.

The number of victims from that airstrike has risen, with five people now reported to have died. 

Local officials had initially said four were killed.

Regional governor Oleh Kiper said in addition to those killed in the attack, one man died after suffering a stroke attributed to the strike.

Another 32 are said to be injured, eight of whom seriously - including a four-year-old child.

A pregnant woman and another child are also among the injured.

"Monsters, beasts, savages, scum, I don't know what else to say," Odesa Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said.

"People are going for a walk by the sea and they are shooting and killing."

Video footage, which could not be immediately verified, showed people receiving treatment on the street alongside pools of blood. 

One photo showed officials examining part of a missile.

Ukrainian navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk said the strike was conducted by an Iskander-M ballistic missile with a cluster warhead.

Odesa has been a frequent target of Russian missile and drone attacks, particular port infrastructure.

Hello and welcome back to our coverage of the war in Ukraine. 

Yesterday a Russian attack on the port city of Odesa killed at least four people, while dramatic footage showed a massive education facility ablaze in the aftermath. 

Here are the other key events to get you up to speed on from the past 24 hours:

• More than 30 Ukrainian conscripts have died while trying to cross the border illegally to avoid mobilisation, a Ukrainian official said;
• The Duchess of Edinburgh met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin;
• Debris recovered from a missile that landed in the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv on 2 January was North Korean, according to the United Nations;
• NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg visited Kyiv for a meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy;
• In a joint news conference, Mr Stoltenberg said NATO allies had "not delivered" on their military aid pledges to Ukraine in recent months, saying that "serious delays" had led to negative consequences on the battlefield;
• Mr Zelenskyy also called for the delivery of Western weapons to Kyiv's troops to be sped up;
• Russia's defence ministry claimed its forces have taken control of the village of Semenivka in the eastern Donetsk region;
• European Council president Charles Michel said the Russian invasion of Ukraine has given "new impetus" to calls for the EU to be enlarged beyond the 27 members;
• Germany's public prosecutor's office said it was assessing whether a political motive was behind the killing of two Ukrainian soldiers in Murnau.

As we reported a short time ago, the Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Sophie met the Ukrainian president and first lady Olena Zelenska and delivered a message to them on behalf of the King, Buckingham Palace said.

You can watch footage from her trip here...

Throughout the day, we've been reporting on a Russian attack on the city of Odesa in Ukraine, which has killed at least four people. 

These images show a burning educational institution building, which was struck. 

Airline Finnair has said it is pausing flights to Tartu in eastern Estonia for the next month, due to GPS disturbances in the area.

"Finnair will suspend its daily flights to Tartu, Estonia, from 29 April to 31 May, so that an alternative approach solution that does not require a GPS signal can be put in place at Tartu Airport," the Finnish airline said in a statement.

Finnair last week had to divert two flights back to Helsinki after GPS interference prevented the approach to Tartu airport, although a spokesperson said the company did not now where the interference came from.

However, Tallinn seems certain as where the issues are originating. 

"It is a fact that Russia affects GPS devices in our region’s airspace," Estonia's foreign minister said via a spokesperson.

Margus Tsahkna added that Estonia will raise the issue of GPS interference with its neighbours, and intends to discuss it with the EU and NATO. 

GPS jamming and spoofing have grown worse in eastern Europe, the Black Sea and the Middle East, all areas close to conflict zones, according to industry group OpsGroup. 

More than 30 Ukrainian conscripts have died while trying to cross the border illegally to avoid mobilisation, a Ukrainian official has said.

Andriy Demchenko, spokesman for the State Border Guard Service,  told Ukrinform that some men are prepared to pay "large sums" of money to groups promising to smuggle them across the border safely.

"Then they are faced with the fact that the route runs along a mountain river," he said.

Many conscripts have lost their lives after realising they didn't have the strength to swim the river, Mr Demchenko added.

"In total, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, about 30 people have died trying to cross the border illegally," he said.

Such attempts occur "every day", he said.

For context: Ukraine has been under martial law since the Russian invasion in February 2022.

It lets draft officers call up men of a certain age to fight on the front line.

In April, Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed off a new law lowering the age of draft-eligible men from 27 to 25, in a bid to boost troop numbers in his depleted ranks.

The Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Her visit is aimed at demonstrating "solidarity with the women, men and children impacted by the war and in a continuation of her work to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence", the palace said.

Three women and a man have died after a Russian attack on Odesa.

A further 28 people have been injured, including two children aged five and 16. A pregnant woman has also been hurt.

This video shows the aftermath of the attack. 

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