In a significant development for cross-strait relations, Taiwan residents are applying for mainland travel permits at unprecedented rates following the implementation of a fee exemption policy. Official data from China’s National Immigration Administration reveals a remarkable 57.2% year-on-year increase in first-time applicants from Taiwan since the policy took effect on July 1, 2025.
The comprehensive statistics demonstrate a substantial growth in cross-strait mobility. Overall permit applications from Taiwan residents increased by 11.9% during the same period, while first-time entries to the mainland surged by 40.9% in the latter half of 2025. The total number of Taiwan residents entering mainland China climbed by 24.4% year-on-year, indicating strengthened people-to-people exchanges across the strait.
Administration spokesperson Lyu Ning emphasized the policy enhancements that have accompanied the fee waiver. “Immigration authorities have implemented refined systems to ensure equal treatment for Taiwan compatriots,” stated Lyu. These measures include issuing temporary travel documents for emergency situations involving lost or damaged permits, and establishing verification services that link travel permits with residence permits.
The administration has maintained free real-time identity verification services to facilitate first-time visitors’ access to transportation, financial, and telecommunications services on the mainland. Looking forward, authorities plan to introduce additional innovative policies specifically targeting first-time applicants and younger demographics to further streamline cross-strait travel procedures.
Infrastructure expansion has also played a crucial role in this increased connectivity. In 2025, the administration significantly expanded processing capabilities by adding 42 ports authorized to issue single-entry travel permits, bringing the total to 100 facilities across the mainland. Additionally, nationwide processing was implemented for mainland residents applying for exit and entry permits to visit relatives in Taiwan, creating more balanced travel opportunities across the strait.