The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle (TECO Seattle) is the de facto representative office of Taiwan (Republic of China) in the Pacific Northwest, covering Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.
Why it is not called an embassy or consulate
Due to the diplomatic policy of the United States (which recognizes the People's Republic of China), Taiwan does not have formal diplomatic relations with the U.S. and cannot maintain official embassies or consulates. Instead, Taiwan operates a network of Taipei Economic and Cultural Offices (TECOs) that function as de facto consulates and provide the same services as an official consular mission.
Consular services provided
- Issuance and renewal of Taiwan (ROC) passports
- National ID card and household registration matters
- Visa applications for travel to Taiwan
- Notarization of documents
- Overseas Chinese affairs
- Emergency assistance to Taiwanese nationals
- Authentication of documents for use in Taiwan
Jurisdiction
TECO Seattle covers Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska. For services in California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii, contact TECO Los Angeles or TECO San Francisco.