Taiwan has joined the United States Visa Waiver Program according to a statement from Janet Napolitano, secretary of the department of homeland security.

Eligible Taiwan passport holders will now be able to visit the United States without visas on trips of up to 90 days.

The move comes into effect on November 1st.

Like other visa waiver travellers, Taiwan passport holders will be required to apply for advance approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation.

“This announcement is a major step forward in our long-standing economic partnership with Taiwan,” Napolitano said.

“Taiwan’s participation in the visa waiver programme will not only stimulate tourism in the United States, it will also enable us to work together to maintain the strictest security standards.”