When hiring or relocating employees to Taiwan, it’s crucial to ensure they have the appropriate legal status to work there. This involves obtaining the right work permits and visas, as well as adhering to immigration laws. Whether you’re:
- Employing a foreign national in Taiwan,
- Hiring a candidate in Taiwan without a local entity,
- Relocating an existing employee to Taiwan, or
- Supporting a digital nomad working in Taiwan,
compliance with immigration regulations is key.
The Importance of Immigration Compliance in Taiwan
As remote work and digital nomadism grow, governments are increasingly vigilant about enforcing laws against working on tourist visas, which is often illegal. In Taiwan, residents, including employees, are required to pay taxes and contribute to social security, which supports statutory benefits like health insurance. To avoid legal issues, such as fines or even imprisonment, it’s vital to secure the correct Taiwan work visa and work permit.
Using an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Remote simplifies the process of hiring remote employees, ensuring compliance with all local labor laws.
Who Needs a Right-to-Work Check in Taiwan?
If you’re a non-citizen looking to work in Taiwan, a work permit is mandatory. The Taiwanese government requires that individuals meet several criteria to qualify, including relevant work experience, a current job offer, a written employment contract, and a salary that meets minimum requirements. Work permits are generally limited to professionals in specific industries.
Do Foreign Nationals Need a Work Visa or Permit in Taiwan?
Yes, foreign nationals must obtain the following:
- Taiwan work permit: Employers must secure this for foreign employees. Applications can be submitted online, in person, or by mail to the Workforce Development Agency (WDA) of the Ministry of Labor. The permit is valid for six months and can be extended up to three years.
- Taiwan work visa: This visa allows individuals not currently in Taiwan to enter the country for employment. It is valid for single or multiple entries and lasts between three months to one year. Applications are submitted to the Taiwanese Bureau of Consular Affairs in the applicant’s home country.
- Taiwan residence permit (Alien Resident Certificate – ARC): This permit is necessary for stays longer than 90 days. It must be applied for within 15 days of entry into Taiwan and can be issued for up to three years, with the option to renew.
Eligibility Requirements for a Taiwan Work Visa
After obtaining a work permit, individuals can apply for a Taiwan work visa. If already in Taiwan, the employee can convert their existing visa to a work visa through the Bureau of Consular Affairs. If applying from abroad, the application must be made through the Bureau of Consular Affairs in their home country. In some cases, an in-person interview may be required.
Types of Long-Stay Visas in Taiwan
Taiwan offers several long-term visa options, including:
- Taiwan work visa
- Taiwan student visa
- Taiwan family reunification visa
- Taiwan entrepreneur visa
- Taiwan working holiday visa
- Taiwan digital nomad visa (Employment Gold Card)
Obtaining a Taiwan Work Visa
Before applying for a work visa, employees must complete a medical examination at a designated hospital and secure a health certificate. Applications are then submitted to the Taiwanese Bureau of Consular Affairs, including all necessary documentation. The government typically processes work visas within 30 business days.
Employee Work Visa Sponsorship Process in Taiwan
Employers are responsible for applying for work permits on behalf of their employees. The requirements vary depending on the role and the employer’s qualifications. After obtaining a work permit, the employee can then apply for a work visa.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Taiwan
While Taiwan doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads, the Employment Gold Card serves this purpose. It combines a work permit, resident permit, and visa for skilled professionals. This card allows digital nomads to stay in Taiwan for one to three years and apply for permanent residence after five years. Applicants must earn at least $5,700 per month and apply online through the official platform.