Taiwan is renowned for its cutting-edge technology and well-established IT institutions, making it an attractive destination for employment opportunities. The issuance of Taiwan work visas has paved the way for foreign workers, including those from Southern Asian countries like India, to seek employment and build careers in Taiwan. This definitive guide provides insights into the Taiwan work visa application process and eligibility criteria.

What is a Taiwan Work Visa? A Taiwan work visa is a legal document that allows individuals to work and reside in Taiwan for a specified duration. There are two primary types of Taiwan work visas:

1. Taiwan Work Visa: Short Term

• Also known as an employment-seeking visa, this permit enables individuals to travel to Taiwan in search of employment. It is essentially a type of visitor visa with a validity of approximately 6 months. This permit can be issued as either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, with the allowed duration of stay dependent on the type of permit. Holders of this visa are also permitted to engage in tourism and other leisure activities, including visiting family and friends.

2. Taiwan Work Visa: Long Term

• This long-term work visa allows individuals to work in Taiwan as residents. While it grants the holder a Taiwan work permit and the right to work in the country, it does not confer full citizenship rights. Holders of this visa can work, explore Taiwan, and even travel to other countries based on their existing work visa. The validity of this permit is typically 5 years and can be extended based on the employment status of the holder.

How to Apply for a Taiwan Work Visa? Before initiating the application process, it’s crucial to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. The application procedure for both short-term and long-term permits is primarily offline. Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying for a Taiwan work visa:

1. Visit the Official Website of Taiwan Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC): Begin by visiting the official website of the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC).

2. Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately.

3. Download and Print the Form: After successfully completing the form, download and print it.

4. Attach Required Photographs: Ensure you attach photographs that meet the specified photo specifications.

5. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide the necessary supporting documents as outlined in the requirements.

6. Submit the Form to TECC in India: Submit the completed application form in person to the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in India.

7. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required visa fee and await final verification.

When filling out the application form for a Taiwan work permit, it’s essential to provide accurate and verifiable information. Any discrepancies between the information provided and the details on your travel documents could lead to application rejection. It’s advisable to seek professional assistance when applying for the permit to avoid potential visa rejections.

Eligibility To be eligible for a Taiwan work visa, applicants must meet specific parameters, which vary between short-term and long-term permits. Here are some essential eligibility criteria:

Eligibility for Short-Term Work Visa:

• Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
  • Graduated from one of the recognized 500 International Universities listed by the ROC Ministry of Education within the past year and are currently unemployed.
  • Graduated from a university deemed eligible through consultations with the central competent authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Applicants must have professional experience in the job they are seeking and provide proof, including salary payslips, with a salary not lower than NT$47,971.

Eligibility for Long-Term Work Visa:

• Applicants must have confirmed employment in Taiwan.
• A job and an employment confirmation letter from the organization are required to apply for a Taiwan work permit.

Common Eligibility Criteria for Both Types:

• Applicants must meet health requirements and be healthy enough to travel to Taiwan.
• A medical test may be required before traveling to Taiwan, with relevant documentary proof provided.
• Applicants must be within the age limit specified for work permits.
• Good character is essential, and applicants must demonstrate genuine intentions for working in Taiwan, providing relevant documentary proof if requested, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or a Certificate of Good Conduct.
• Sufficient funds are required to cover expenses in Taiwan, with bank statements or equivalent documents serving as proof of financial capability.

Taiwan Work Visa Requirements The documents required for obtaining a Taiwan work visa may differ depending on the type of permit. Here are the differentiated requirements for Taiwan work permits:

For Short-Term Work Visa:

• Completed and signed visa application form.
• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months, along with a photocopy.
• Passport-sized photographs.
• Certificate of the highest education level pursued.
• Health insurance documentation.
• Certificate of Good Conduct.
• Proof of relevant working experience (if applicable).
• Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, to cover expenses.

For Long-Term Work Visa:

• Completed and signed visa application form.
• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months, along with a photocopy.
• Passport-sized photographs.
• Certificate of the highest education level pursued.
• Health insurance documentation.
• Proof of relevant working experience (if applicable).
• Bank payment slip.

Taiwan Work Visa Photo Specifications Ensure that the photographs meet the following specifications:

• Two copies must be provided.
• Photo size: 2 inches x 2 inches.
• Colored copies must be provided.
• The face should occupy about 60-70% of the frame (32mm x 36mm).
• The head should be well-centered.
• Maintain a gap of 2mm to 6mm between the top of the head and the frame.
• Photos should not be older than 6 months.
• The background should be white.
• Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Glasses are not permitted.
• Headgear is allowed for religious reasons only.
• Clothing should not match the background.

Taiwan Work Permit Processing Time The processing time required for issuing either type of work permit is typically around 2 weeks. Several factors can affect the processing time, including the workload at the Consular office, staff availability, document completeness, and others. Processing times may vary based on these parameters.

Taiwan Work Visa Fees The visa fee must be paid before submitting the documents and the application form to TECC. The fee can be paid directly at Kotak Bank or through a demand draft made in favor of TECC, payable in New Delhi only. Several factors determine the fee, including the type of permit, number of entries, fast-track options, permit validity, and other factors.

After Submission After submitting your application form and supporting documents, remember the following key points:

• Ensure that the documents to be submitted are in good condition, and no appointment is required for submission.
• The fully filled and signed visa application form can be submitted either to the visa application center or directly to the Consulate.
• There is no need for a separate appointment for submission, but ensure that you submit them within the timeframe specified by TECC.
• Depending on the requirement, you may be called for an interview.
• If there are any additional requirements or mistakes in the application, inform the embassy or the agency.
• Notify the embassy/agency of any changes related to the application, such as changes in marital status or the birth of a child.
• You can check the status of your application and its processing status in the meantime.
• In case of changes in your plans, you have the option to withdraw the application.
• Note that visa fees are generally non-refundable.

How to Check Visa Status To check the status of your Taiwan work visa, you have multiple options. You can visit the TECCC website or contact TECC offline to inquire about the status of your visa application. If you applied through an agency, you can also check the status on their website.

When You Have Your Visa Once your documents are verified, and the processing is complete, you can collect your Taiwan work visa from TECC during the specified hours (typically 15:30 to 16:30 hours on weekdays). Here are some important reminders for visa holders:

Before You Travel:

• Note the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries permitted. Avoid overstaying beyond this period.
• Ensure you travel to Taiwan within the visa’s validity period.
• Carry your passport and other essential travel documents.
• Obtain health and travel insurance from a certified company.

At the Border:

• Have your documents checked and your passport verified.
• Obtain the entry stamp on your passport.
• Consult with airport authorities if you require any assistance.
• Review your visa copy for additional guidelines and rules.

When You Enter Taiwan:

• Refrain from engaging in activities that are not permitted for non-residents, as this could lead to legal issues.
• You can work and tour the country on this visa.
• You can later invite and sponsor your family to join you in the country.
• Avoid tourist-prohibited areas.
• Ensure you do not overstay your visa and apply for a visa extension if necessary.