American Citizen Services at AIT

October 27, 2006

AIT is located on Xinyi Rd., Sec. 3, No. 134. It is just east of Jianguo Rd. Most services will require that you make an appointment online.

If you are American you won't need to wait in the oppressive line being formed out front, just join the line to go through security. You will have to turn off and check in your mobile phone, and any other electronic devices such as a notebook computer or mp3 player. You will need an ID other than your passport to leave with your checked items. You will need your passport to take care of your business. Proceed to the back of the building and up to the 2nd floor. At the time of your appointment, they will announce that everyone with an appointment at that time should come to the window to check in. They will take your passport and documents and then send you to the cashiers window to pay any fees. Then you will wait for your name to be called.

If you need a document notarized make an appointment online, it will cost approx. NTD 1000 (USD 30.00). You will receive a discount if you have a second document notarized at the same time.

Getting something done at AIT can be a long painful process. It took me about 2 hours to get a document notarized, the actual notary process taking about 2 minutes, and the rest of the time waiting. But it didn't seem so bad when I came out and saw what the Taiwanese had to go through on the first floor. It is also a bit odd to have someone talk at you with a microphone through a window with a slot just large enough to pass documents. Since they are using a microphone, you will be treated to a recap of everyone else's private business while you wait your turn.

Below is an announcement issued by AIT:
Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2006 7:19 PM

NEW APPOINTMENT SYSTEM FOR AMERICAN CITIZEN SERVICES

The American Institute in Taiwan's Taipei office is pleased to announce a new appointment scheduling system for services at the American Citizen Services Unit at AIT Taipei's Consular Section. Beginning Monday, November 6, 2006, applications for all services will be accepted by appointment only using a free online scheduling system, which will begin accepting appointments on October 23.

Based on the overwhelming success of our limited appointment system for Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, we have decided to expand the system to offer appointments for all services to better serve the American community in Taiwan.

Due to increasing numbers of applications and our limited office space, the current application process for passport, notarial and social security services can require several visits to AIT, waiting times in excess of one hour, long lines, and standing room only in our waiting room. The new scheduling system will mean one trip to AIT, less time in the waiting room, no more long lines, and your new passport will arrive faster.

Consular assistance is always available without appointment in case of emergencies such as life-and-death situations, arrest, and indigence.

Please visit our website for more information and to make your appointment!

http://www.ait.org.tw/en/uscitizens/

美國在台協會實施美國公民服務新預約制度

美國在台協會台北辦事處宣佈，領事組提供給美國公民的服務，將實施新的上網預約制度。自2006年11月6日開始，所有需要服務的美國公民，必須使用免費線上預約系統事先預約。上網預約自10月23日開始受理。