Asia Pacific
Taiwan immigration and visa guide
Taiwan offers the Taiwan Employment Gold Card, a 4-in-1 visa, work permit, alien resident certificate (ARC), and re-entry permit with open employment rights.
National Immigration Agency (NIA) & National Development Council
- Processing time
- 3 – 6 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in Taiwan
Key requirements
- Qualification in one of 10 designated fields (Science & Tech, Economy, Education, Culture & Arts, Finance, Law, Architecture, Defense, Digital)
- For economy/tech track: proof of previous monthly salary of at least NT$160,000 (~$5,000 USD/month) or patents/founder credentials
- Passport inspection at designated Taipei Representative Office abroad or in Taiwan
How to apply for a Taiwan visa: step by step
- 1
Online Gold Card Portal Application
Submit digital application on the NIA portal with tax certificates and professional portfolio.
30 - 60 days
- 2
Passport Verification Abroad or in Taiwan
Receive notification to present original passport at the nearest TECO/Taipei office for verification.
1 - 2 weeks
- 3
Download Resident Certificate / Physical Card
Receive 1 to 3-year physical Gold Card granting immediate open work rights and National Health Insurance (NHI) eligibility.
Immediate post-verification
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What tax benefits does the Taiwan Gold Card offer?
Gold Card holders enjoy a 50% tax deduction on personal income exceeding NT$3 million during their first 5 years of residency in Taiwan.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Taiwan. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
National Immigration Agency (NIA) & National Development CouncilGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with National Immigration Agency (NIA) & National Development Council on the official website before applying.