For those who are looking for opportunities to work abroad, Taiwan is a perfect destination. Not only does it offer a stable and growing economy, but it also has a rich culture and friendly locals. However, before you can start working in Taiwan, you need to obtain a working visa first. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about working visas for Taiwan.
What is a working visa?
A working visa, also known as a resident visa, is a type of visa that allows foreigners to legally work in Taiwan. This visa is issued by the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA) and allows holders to stay in Taiwan for up to three years. The visa is renewable as long as the holder continues to meet the requirements set by the Taiwanese government.
Types of working visas
There are several types of working visas available in Taiwan, each catering to a specific type of foreign worker. These include:
Employment Gold Card Visa
This type of visa is designed for highly skilled foreign professionals who wish to work in Taiwan. It allows holders to work and live in Taiwan without the need for a work permit and is valid for up to three years.
Foreign Professional Work Permit
This type of visa is for foreign professionals who have been hired by Taiwanese companies and will be working in Taiwan for a specific period of time. The visa is valid for up to three years and is renewable.
Teaching Work Permit
This type of visa is specifically for foreign teachers who will be working in Taiwan. The visa is valid for up to one year and is renewable.
Requirements for a working visa
To apply for a working visa in Taiwan, you need to meet the following requirements:
Valid passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Taiwan.
Proof of employment
You need to have a job offer from a Taiwanese company and a valid work contract.
Criminal record check
You need to provide a criminal record check from your home country or any other country you have lived in for more than six months.
Health certificate
You need to provide a health certificate stating that you are in good health and free from any contagious diseases.
Application form
You need to complete the application form for a working visa and submit it to the BOCA along with all the required documents.
Application process for a working visa
The application process for a working visa in Taiwan is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Find a job in Taiwan
You need to find a job in Taiwan before you can apply for a working visa. You can either look for job openings online or contact a Taiwanese recruitment agency.
Step 2: Obtain a work permit
Your prospective employer needs to obtain a work permit from the Council of Labor Affairs (CLA) before you can apply for a working visa.
Step 3: Gather the required documents
You need to gather all the required documents, including your passport, proof of employment, criminal record check, health certificate, and application form.
Step 4: Submit the application
You need to submit your application to the BOCA and pay the application fee.
Step 5: Wait for approval
The processing time for a working visa application is around four to six weeks. You will be notified of the status of your application via email or phone.
Conclusion
Getting a working visa in Taiwan may seem daunting, but as long as you meet the requirements and follow the application process, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. With a working visa, you can enjoy all that Taiwan has to offer and experience a new and exciting culture.
