How do I convert a single-entry visitor visa to multiple-entry

[TokyoJimu]

When I applied for my visitor visa in Los Angeles, I asked for a multiple-entry visa (it seemed only fair since the U.S. gives Taiwanese a 5-year multiple-entry), but they refused. They wanted to give me a single-entry 30-day visa. I begged, and they gave me 60 days and told me I can convert it to a multiple-entry once I get to Taiwan.

Well now I'm here, and when I spoke to the Bureau of Consular Affairs, they said there is no way to convert a single-entry to multiple-entry, and I must leave the country and apply for a new visa (for another US$140!). So was I lied to? I wouldn't doubt it, considering the people at the consulate in L.A. were some of the meanest, least-helpful people I've ever met.

I just don't get it. I like Taiwan, have lots of friends here, and want to be able to pop in when I'm in the neighborhood and hang out. Don't they want all the money I spend on hotels, meals, etc. when I'm here?

[Belgian Pie]

Taiwan is focusing in Chinese tourists as they bring in the money, every TECO around the world has had orders to limit multiple entry visas, preventing effectively that too many western tourists clog-up hotel rooms ...

[dan2006]

The government there is useless when it comes to visa rules.

I was told that I could get a open visa when my first visitor visa ran out and I went to the Philippines to get another one, and that when I went back to Taiwan, I could convert it to a student visa. When I went back to Taiwan, they said I couldn’t convert it. I appealed that decision up to Taipei, but they are useless in that office as well and just denied it with no reason. The one TECO gives out useless info, and the other contradicts it, and the person gets screwed with no recourse.