Taiwan has become one of the top destinations for skilled international professionals, offering a unique blend of career opportunities and a high quality of life. Recognized as the happiest country in East Asia by Expat Insider in 2019, Taiwan's Employment Gold Card aims to attract global talent, providing an all-in-one visa that includes work, residence, and re-entry benefits. If you're from India and considering moving to Taiwan, the Employment Gold Card could be your gateway to a fulfilling life and career in this vibrant nation.
What is Taiwan's Employment Gold Card?
Launched in 2018, the Taiwan Employment Gold Card is a four-in-one visa, combining a work permit, resident visa, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), and re-entry permit. The card is designed to make it easier for skilled professionals to live and work in Taiwan without needing to secure a job in advance. You can apply for the Gold Card online without employer sponsorship, and it is valid for 1 to 3 years.
The Gold Card is part of Taiwan’s broader initiative to recruit foreign talent under the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professional Talent, implemented in October 2017. It is available to professionals in various fields like technology, finance, education, and more.
The 4-in-1 benefits include:
|
Benefit |
Description |
|
Work Permit |
Allows you to work with any company, full-time or part-time, or start your own business. |
|
Resident Visa |
Eligible to stay in Taiwan for more than 180 days, granting long-term residence status. |
|
Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) |
A physical ID card proving you are legally residing in Taiwan. |
|
Re-entry Permit |
Permits multiple entries and exits from Taiwan during the Gold Card’s validity, ideal for frequent travelers. |
What are the Requirements for a Taiwan Employment Gold Card?
To be eligible for Taiwan’s Employment Gold Card, you need to meet specific professional and experience-based criteria. These include:
- Relevant Work Experience: You must have at least five years of professional experience in a qualified industry such as science and technology, education, law, finance, culture, or sports.
- Salary: In some cases, a minimum salary requirement is set, especially for those applying under the digital economy category. For example, a monthly salary of NT$160,000 or more may be required for certain fields.
- Qualifications: You need to demonstrate your qualifications, whether through academic credentials, professional certifications, or industry recognition. Individuals with advanced degrees, such as master's degrees or doctorates, may receive additional points when applying.
- Industry Categories: The Gold Card is available for various sectors, including science and technology, economics, finance, education, and culture. You must choose the most relevant ministry for your industry when applying.
- Points-Based System: The eligibility of applicants is assessed through a points-based system, with points awarded based on factors like education, professional experience, income, and overall contribution to the field. If the applicant meets the required points threshold, they may be granted a Gold Card.
Note: Special Case Review:
If an applicant doesn't fit into the standard qualifying categories but possesses unique expertise, their application may be reviewed as a special case. This allows individuals with exceptional skills to apply even if they don’t meet the usual qualifications.
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Required Documents for an Employment Gold Card
- A color copy of your passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- A recent 2-inch color passport photo (taken within the last 6 months).
- Documents that match the specific qualification requirements for your field.
- Previous Taiwanese visa or residence permit (if needed).
What is the Process of applying for an Employment Gold Card?
The application process for the Taiwan Employment Gold Card is simple and can be completed online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Eligibility Check: Before applying, ensure that your profession and experience meet the requirements. You can use Taiwan’s online Qualification Check tool to verify whether you qualify based on your industry, education, and experience.
Step 2: Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, which typically include:
A copy of your passport
Your resume
Academic certificates and transcripts
Employment records and salary statements (if applicable)
Proof of industry expertise (awards, recognitions, or publications)
Step 3: Submit Application: Once your documents are ready, visit the Taiwan Employment Gold Card application website and fill out the online application form. You will need to upload your supporting documents and pay the application fee.
Step 4: Wait for Approval: The standard processing time for the Gold Card application is about 30 to 60 days, depending on whether additional documents are required. If your application is complete and accepted, you will receive an approval notice.
Step 5: Receive Gold Card: Upon approval, you will be issued the Taiwan Employment Gold Card, which you can use to start working and living in Taiwan.
What is the cost of Taiwan’s Employment Gold Card?
The cost of the Taiwan Employment Gold Card varies depending on your nationality and the duration of the visa. The application fee typically ranges between USD 100 and USD 310. This fee covers the application process and the issuance of the card, and there are no additional fees for work permits or residency applications.
Additionally, Taiwan’s government is offering special incentives for Gold Card holders engaged in digital economy-related activities. These incentives include subsidies for airfare, accommodation, and internet fees for those attending business events and exchanges in Taiwan until October 31, 2024.
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What are the Benefits of the Taiwan Employment Gold Card?
The Taiwan Employment Gold Card offers a wide range of advantages for foreign professionals. These benefits make it a highly attractive option for skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Here’s a detailed look at the core benefits:
Open Work Permit: Unlike most work visas, the Taiwan Employment Gold Card provides an open work permit, meaning you are not tied to any specific employer. You can work for any company, switch jobs, work part-time, or even start your own business in Taiwan without any restrictions. This flexibility is a key feature that sets the Gold Card apart from other visa options.
Long-Term Resident Visa: The Gold Card provides a long-term visa, allowing you to live in Taiwan for 1 to 3 years without needing to apply for multiple extensions. After three years, you can apply for permanent residency (excluding Hong Kong and Macau residents), which is an attractive option for those considering making Taiwan their long-term home.
Family Benefits: One of the most appealing aspects of the Gold Card is the ability to bring your family along. Your spouse and children under 20 can apply for dependent status, and they will enjoy the same residency rights. Spouses and children can apply for the Alien Resident Certificate (ARCS), and parents and grandparents can apply for visitor visas for up to one year.
Tax Incentives: If you’re earning a high salary in Taiwan, you can benefit from a 50% income tax deduction on your annual salary above NT$3 million for the first five years. This is a significant benefit for high-income professionals and adds to the financial appeal of relocating to Taiwan.
National Health Insurance: Once you start working in Taiwan, both you and your dependents will be eligible to join Taiwan's National Health Insurance system. This provides access to affordable healthcare and makes Taiwan a highly attractive destination for those seeking comprehensive medical coverage.
Re-entry Flexibility: The Gold Card allows unlimited entry and exit from Taiwan during the card’s validity period. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to travel frequently for work or personal reasons.
Work Flexibility: They can work for any employer, including remote work, or start their own business in Taiwan.
Permanent Residency: After three years of continuous residence in Taiwan, Gold Card holders who meet the necessary conditions can apply for permanent residency. A PhD obtained in Taiwan counts toward this period.
Renewal and Extension of the Taiwan Gold Card
Gold Card holders can renew their visa once it expires, with an option for extension based on their continued eligibility, such as employment, income, or ongoing achievements in their respective fields. In many cases, the renewal process is relatively straightforward, and as the holder proves their ongoing contribution to Taiwan's economy or society, they may qualify for permanent residency status.
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How We at Kansas Overseas Careers Can Help You Get Your Taiwan Employment Gold Card
Getting the Taiwan Employment Gold Card might seem complicated, but we at Kansas Overseas Careers are here to make the entire process easier for you. If you're an Indian national planning to apply for the Gold Card, we’ll guide you step-by-step.
Here’s how we can help you with your Taiwan Employment Gold Card:
Check Your Eligibility: First, we’ll assess your qualifications to see if you meet the requirements for the Gold Card. We’ll help you identify which category is right for you based on your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Document Assistance: Applying for the Gold Card requires several documents like proof of work experience, education, and salary details. We’ll help you gather and organize all the required documents to meet Taiwan’s standards, reducing the chances of rejection.
Application Filing: We’ll complete and submit your application online for you, ensuring all details are accurate. Our team will make sure the application is submitted on time, boosting your chances of getting approved quickly.
Follow-Up Support: Sometimes, Taiwan’s authorities may ask for additional documents. If this happens, we’ll assist you in responding to requests promptly and correctly, ensuring there are no delays in your application process.
Post-Approval Guidance: Once your Gold Card is approved, we’ll guide you on what comes next. From understanding your visa terms to preparing for your relocation, we’ll ensure you’re ready to start your new life in Taiwan.
Job Search Assistance: Although the Gold Card doesn’t require a job offer in advance, we can help you find a job. Through our network of employers in Taiwan, we can assist you in job searches within the relevant sectors, like technology, finance, education, and more.
Other FAQs
1. Can I apply for the Gold Card without a job offer in Taiwan?
Yes, you do not need a job offer to apply for the Taiwan Employment Gold Card. You can apply based on your qualifications and experience, and once approved, you can seek employment or start your own business in Taiwan.
2. How long is the Gold Card valid for?
The Taiwan Employment Gold Card is valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on your application and the terms set by the Taiwanese authorities. After three years, you may apply for permanent residency in Taiwan.
3. Can my family come with me?
Yes, your spouse and children under the age of 20 are eligible for dependent status and can accompany you to Taiwan with the same residency rights.
4. Can I apply for permanent residency with the Gold Card?
Yes, Gold Card holders can apply for permanent residency after holding the card for three years, provided they meet the requirements. However, this is not applicable to residents of Hong Kong and Macau.
5. Is Taiwan a good destination for Indian professionals?
Yes, Taiwan is an excellent destination for skilled Indian professionals, offering competitive salaries, a high quality of life, and numerous career opportunities. The Taiwan Employment Gold Card makes it easier for professionals from India to relocate, work, and build a future in Taiwan.
