The European Union will be introducing new visa requirements for East Asian travelers to Europe starting October 12.
Anna Kao, Taiwan’s top foreign ministry official in charge of European affairs said Thursday that those staying in Europe’s Schengen Area for more than 90 days will need to provide fingerprint records.
"Visa free entry applies to those travelling for tourism and business," Kao said. "Those people will not be affected by the new measures, nor will they have to leave their fingerprints or take a digital photograph."
Kao said the new measures will only apply to those who are staying for more than 90 days for work, study, or visiting relatives. The EU Visa Information System will keep the personal records for 5 years. Those under the age of 12, heads of state and government leaders will not have to provide fingerprints.