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Taiwan

Asia

Taiwan is a global tech hub known for its advanced digital infrastructure, safety, vibrant food scene, and welcoming attitude toward foreign professionals. In January 2025, Taiwan launched a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa allowing remote workers to stay up to 6 months. The Employment Gold Card program offers even longer stays for qualified professionals. With excellent internet, affordable living costs, and a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern innovation, Taiwan is becoming a top destination for digital nomads in Asia.

6
Visa Types
143
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Digital Nomad Visitor Visa

New visa launched January 2025 for remote workers from visa-exempt countries. Valid for up to 180 days (initially 90 days, extendable by 90 days).

90 days
Duration
$50
— fee
+$300 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $40,000/per_year

Alternative: For applicants aged 20-29, the income requirement is reduced to US$20,000 per year. Bank deposits averaging US$10,000 over 6 months may also be required.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Legal remote work for foreign employers
✓Stay up to 180 days in Taiwan
✓No local employer sponsorship needed
✓Access to Taiwan's excellent digital infrastructure
✓Experience local culture while working
✓Potential pathway to Gold Card after 1 year
📋 Requirements (9)
  • •Must be citizen of a visa-exempt country
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Proof of annual income: US$40,000+ (age 30+) or US$20,000+ (age 20-29)
  • •OR proof of previous digital nomad visa from another country
  • •Bank statements showing average US$10,000 balance over past 6 months
  • •Proof of remote work (contracts, employer letter, CV)
  • •Health insurance with full hospitalization coverage
  • •Taiwan Stay Period Plan Description Form
  • •Proof of accommodation in Taiwan
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 15 to 30 days
  1. 1Confirm you are from a visa-exempt country (67 countries eligible)
  2. 2Complete the online visa application form
  3. 3Gather all required documents including income proof and work contracts
  4. 4If outside Taiwan: Submit application at nearest TECO office
  5. 5If inside Taiwan on visa-free entry: Apply at Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA) at least 10 days before visa-free period expires
  6. 6Application is forwarded to National Development Council (NDC) for qualification review
  7. 7Wait 15-30 days for processing
  8. 8If approved, receive visa valid for 90 days initial stay
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 90 days (max 1x)

Cost: Free

Process: Apply for extension at BOCA before initial 90-day period expires. Extension is for an additional 90 days, bringing total stay to 180 days maximum.

Renewal: After 180 days, you must leave Taiwan. Can reapply for new DN visa after exiting.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply before your visa-free 90 days expire if you're already in Taiwan
  • •Tainan City is designated as Taiwan's first digital nomad hub with special programs
  • •Consider the Gold Card if you plan to stay longer than 6 months
  • •Keep proof of remote work income readily available
  • •The government plans to extend the visa duration to 2 years in the future
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Employment Gold Card

4-in-1 card combining work permit, resident visa, ARC, and re-entry permit. Valid 1-3 years with open work rights. Best option for qualified professionals.

365 days
Duration
TWD 14,100
— fee
+TWD 3,000 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $160,000/per_month

Alternative: Alternative qualifications include: 8+ years experience in digital economy, PhD from top 500 university, specialized expertise in designated fields, or significant professional achievements.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Open work permit - work for any or multiple employers
✓Can start your own business in Taiwan
✓Eligible for 50% income tax reduction for first 3 years (qualifying salaries)
✓Spouse and minor children can obtain dependent residence permits
✓Parents and grandparents can apply for 1-year visitor visas
✓Access to National Health Insurance after 6 months
✓Multiple re-entry permit included
✓Path to permanent residency after 5 years
📋 Requirements (7)
  • •Valid foreign passport
  • •Proof of professional expertise in one of 8 designated fields
  • •Income proof: NT$160,000/month (approx. US$5,000) OR professional achievements
  • •Professional certificates and credentials
  • •Employment history documentation
  • •Passport-style photo
  • •No criminal record
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 4 to 8 weeks (up to 60 business days)
  1. 1Create account on Foreign Professionals Online Application Platform
  2. 2Select your professional field category (Science & Tech, Economy, Education, Culture, Sports, Finance, Law, Architecture)
  3. 3Complete online application form with all personal details
  4. 4Upload supporting documents proving qualifications
  5. 5Pay application fee online
  6. 6If applying from abroad: Schedule passport inspection at TECO office
  7. 7Wait 4-8 weeks for review by relevant ministry
  8. 8Receive approval notification by email
  9. 9If outside Taiwan: Pick up Gold Card at NIA within 30 days of entry
  10. 10If inside Taiwan: Collect from designated NIA Service Center
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1095 days (max x)

Cost: 5,700 TWD

Process: Apply for renewal within 4 months before expiration. Can renew for up to 3 years each time if still meeting qualifications.

Renewal: Renewable multiple times. After 5 years continuous residence, can apply for permanent residency (APRC).

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Choose your professional category carefully - each ministry has different criteria
  • •The "Economy" field under Ministry of Economic Affairs is popular for tech professionals
  • •Document everything thoroughly - incomplete applications cause delays
  • •Fee varies significantly by nationality, check the fee schedule
  • •If already in Taiwan on tourist visa, your Gold Card will replace it upon approval

Visa-Free Entry (90 days)

TouristPopular

Citizens of most Western countries can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, business meetings, and visiting.

90d
Duration
$0
— fee
📍Apply: On Arrival
⏱Immediate upon arrival
🔄Extendable +90d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Entry feeNo visa fee for visa-exempt nationals
$0—
Required Total
$0—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Passport from visa-exempt country with 6 months validity
  • •Return or onward ticket
  • •Proof of accommodation
  • •Sufficient funds for stay
  • •Complete online arrival card within 3 days before arrival (mandatory from Oct 2025)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Complete Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) online within 3 days before arrival
  2. 2Arrive at Taiwan airport with valid passport
  3. 3Present passport and proof of onward travel at immigration
  4. 4Receive entry stamp allowing 90-day stay

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Remote work technically not permitted
  • •Cannot work for Taiwanese employers
  • •Maximum 90 days (180 for UK/Canada citizens)
  • •Not all nationalities are eligible

💡 Tips

  • •Complete the mandatory TWAC online form before arrival
  • •If planning to work remotely, apply for DN Visa before your 90 days expire
  • •Keep return flight proof handy for immigration

Visa-Free Entry (30 days)

Tourist

Citizens of certain countries including Thailand, Brunei, and Philippines can enter visa-free for 14-30 days under special programs.

30d
Duration
$0
— fee
📍Apply: On Arrival
⏱Immediate
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Entry feeNo visa fee
$0—
Required Total
$0—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with 6 months validity
  • •Return or onward ticket
  • •Proof of accommodation
  • •Proof of sufficient funds
  • •Complete online arrival card (TWAC)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Complete TWAC online within 3 days before arrival
  2. 2Arrive at Taiwan airport
  3. 3Present passport and supporting documents at immigration
  4. 4Receive entry stamp

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Short stay duration (14-30 days)
  • •Cannot be extended
  • •Work not permitted
  • •Limited to specific nationalities

💡 Tips

  • •Check current eligibility as these programs are periodically renewed
  • •Philippines nationals need additional documentation including sponsor contact info

Resident Visa for Employment

Work

Standard work visa requiring employer sponsorship. Employer must obtain work permit before visa application.

365d
Duration
$566
— fee
+$100 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱2 to 4 weeks
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Visa feeStandard fee, varies by nationality
$66—
Work permit fee (employer paid)Employer responsibility
$500—
Additional (estimated)
Document authenticationIf required
$100—
Required Total
$566—
+ Additional (estimated)
$100—
Estimated Total
$666—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Job offer from Taiwanese employer
  • •Work permit issued to employer by Ministry of Labor
  • •Valid passport with 6 months validity
  • •Completed visa application form
  • •Passport photos
  • •Educational certificates (authenticated)
  • •Health check certificate
  • •No criminal record

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Employer applies for work permit from Ministry of Labor
  2. 2Once work permit is approved, apply for resident visa at TECO
  3. 3Submit all required documents
  4. 4Wait for visa processing (2-4 weeks)
  5. 5Enter Taiwan with resident visa
  6. 6Apply for ARC within 15 days of arrival at NIA

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tied to specific employer
  • •Cannot freelance or work for other employers
  • •Requires employer sponsorship
  • •Changing jobs requires new work permit

💡 Tips

  • •Start job search through 104.com.tw or LinkedIn Taiwan
  • •Tech and English teaching are common fields for foreigners
  • •Ensure employer handles work permit before you travel

Working Holiday Visa

Special Program

For young adults aged 18-30 (or 35) from partner countries to work and travel in Taiwan for up to one year.

365d
Duration
$66
— fee
+$600 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱2 to 4 weeks
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Visa feeVaries by nationality
$66—
Additional (estimated)
Health insurance (1 year)Recommended coverage
$600—
Required Total
$66—
+ Additional (estimated)
$600—
Estimated Total
$666—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Citizen of eligible country (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, UK, Germany, etc.)
  • •Age 18-30 (35 for some countries)
  • •Valid passport
  • •Return ticket or proof of funds for return
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for initial stay
  • •Health insurance
  • •No criminal record
  • •Not have previously held Taiwan WHV

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Check if your country has WHV agreement with Taiwan
  2. 2Apply at Taiwan representative office in your country
  3. 3Submit required documents
  4. 4Wait for processing (typically 2-4 weeks)
  5. 5Receive WHV and enter Taiwan within specified period

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Age restricted (18-30 or 35)
  • •Limited to specific nationalities
  • •One-time only, cannot be renewed
  • •Cannot be converted to Gold Card while in Taiwan

💡 Tips

  • •Popular for teaching English, hospitality work
  • •Annual quotas may apply - apply early
  • •Good stepping stone to explore Taiwan before committing long-term

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalTaipei
CurrencyTWD (NT$)
LanguageMandarin Chinese
TimezoneUTC+8
Last UpdatedDec 3, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Digital Nomad Visa and the Gold Card?
The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for shorter stays of up to 6 months for remote workers from visa-exempt countries. The Gold Card is a more comprehensive 4-in-1 card valid for 1-3 years that includes an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer in Taiwan or start a business. The Gold Card has higher qualification requirements but offers more benefits including tax incentives and a path to permanent residency.
What are the income requirements for Taiwan's Digital Nomad Visa?
For applicants aged 30 and above, you need to show annual income of at least US$40,000 in one of the last two years. For those aged 20-29, the requirement is reduced to US$20,000. You also need bank statements showing an average balance of at least US$10,000 over the past 6 months. Alternatively, if you have been issued a digital nomad visa by another country, you can use that as proof of eligibility.
Can I apply for the Digital Nomad Visa while already in Taiwan on visa-free entry?
Yes, if you entered Taiwan visa-free, you can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa at the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA). You must apply at least 10 working days before your visa-free period expires. If approved, you will receive an initial 90-day stay that can be extended once for another 90 days, giving you up to 180 days total.
Can I work for Taiwanese companies on a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, the Digital Nomad Visa only permits remote work for foreign employers or clients. If you want to work for Taiwanese companies, you need either an Employment Gold Card (which includes an open work permit) or a traditional work visa sponsored by a Taiwanese employer.
Do I need health insurance for Taiwan's Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, health insurance with full hospitalization coverage is mandatory for the Digital Nomad Visa application. The insurance must cover your entire planned stay in Taiwan. Note that Digital Nomad Visa holders are NOT eligible for Taiwan's National Health Insurance (NHI). Gold Card holders become eligible for NHI after 6 months of residence.
What professional fields qualify for the Employment Gold Card?
The Gold Card covers 8 professional fields: Science and Technology, Economy (including digital economy), Education, Culture and Arts, Sports, Finance, Law, and Architecture. Within each field, you can qualify through high salary (NT$160,000/month), significant professional achievements, specialized expertise, or relevant work experience. The "Economy" field under the Ministry of Economic Affairs is popular among tech professionals and entrepreneurs.
Can I open a bank account in Taiwan as a digital nomad?
Opening a bank account without an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is challenging but possible at some banks. Digital Nomad Visa holders should be able to open accounts more easily than tourists. You will need your passport, visa, proof of Taiwan address, and a local phone number. E.SUN Bank and CTBC are generally more foreigner-friendly with English-speaking staff.
Do I need to pay taxes in Taiwan on my Digital Nomad Visa?
If you stay in Taiwan for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you may be considered a tax resident and subject to Taiwan income tax on worldwide income. For stays under 183 days, you are generally only taxed on Taiwan-sourced income. Since Digital Nomad Visa income comes from foreign sources, most DN visa holders under 183 days have minimal Taiwan tax obligations. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
What is Tainan's Digital Nomad Hub?
Tainan City has been designated as Taiwan's first official digital nomad hub. The Yu Ai Public Retail Market has been converted to provide workspace for digital nomads. The city government offers programs to connect international nomads with local startups and hosts cultural exchange programs. This initiative is part of Taiwan's plan to attract up to 400,000 remote workers by 2032.
What is the TWAC and do I need to complete it?
The Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) is an online immigration form that became mandatory from October 1, 2025. All foreign visitors must complete it online within 3 days before arrival. You can fill it in Chinese or English, and it allows you to pre-register information for faster immigration clearance. The system can auto-fill data by scanning your passport. Access it at twac.immigration.gov.tw.
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Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 3, 2025

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