How long does it typically take to process a Resident Visa for Taiwan?

It usually takes about 2-4 weeks to process a Resident Visa, but this can vary depending on your specific circumstances and the TECO office handling your application.

Can I work in Taiwan with a Resident Visa?

Yes, if you have secured employment in Taiwan, your Resident Visa will allow you to seek work. However, you'll need to ensure your job contract and employer are recognized by Taiwanese authorities.

What is the validity of a Resident Visa?

The Resident Visa is generally issued with a validity period of 3 months, during which you must enter Taiwan. Upon entry, you can apply for the Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) for a longer stay.

Do I need a health examination for the Resident Visa?

Yes, a health examination is required to ensure you do not have any contagious diseases. The examination must be conducted at a recognized medical facility.

What is an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and how do I get it?

The ARC is a permit that allows foreigners to reside in Taiwan. After entering Taiwan on a Resident Visa, you need to apply for the ARC at the National Immigration Agency within 15 days.

Can a Resident Visa be extended?

Resident Visas themselves are not extended, but you can apply for the ARC, which allows you to extend or change your residency status as needed while in Taiwan.

Do I need to submit my application in person?

It's often recommended to submit your application in person at your nearest TECO. However, some TECO offices allow mail-in applications as well.

What happens if my application is denied?

If your Resident Visa application is denied, you will receive information on why it was rejected and you may be able to correct the issues and reapply.

Will my family members need individual Resident Visas?

Yes, each family member who is joining you in Taiwan will need to apply for their own Resident Visa.

Can I travel outside Taiwan while holding a Resident Visa?

Yes, you can travel in and out of Taiwan while holding a Resident Visa. Just ensure that you abide by the visa's validity period and obtain the ARC to make travel easier.

Taiwan Resident Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Taiwan Resident Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Taiwan Resident Visa?

The Resident Visa for Taiwan is primarily designed for individuals who plan to stay in Taiwan for an extended period of time. This visa is typically intended for foreign nationals who have secured employment, wish to join family members, are pursuing educational opportunities, or investing in a business. The Resident Visa also acts as a stepping stone toward obtaining an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), which allows one to enjoy convenient benefits of residency like health care, work rights, and a sense of permanency in Taiwan.

Resident Visa Requirements for Taiwan

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Resident Visa for Taiwan. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Valid Passport
A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of entry is a must for your application.
Completed Application Form
Fill out the application form accurately and completely. Missing or incorrect information can delay the process.
Purpose-specific Documents
Depending on your reason for residency, documents such as employment contracts, university admission letters, or investment proof will be required.
Financial Proof
Evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself while in Taiwan, such as bank statements or sponsor documents.
Health Certificate
A health certificate indicating you do not have any contagious diseases is necessary. This may require a medical examination.
Criminal Record Check
A police clearance certificate or similar documents from your home country, indicating you have no criminal record.
Application Fee
Payment of the applicable visa fee, which varies depending on your nationality and the specifics of your application.

How to Apply for Taiwan Resident Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Taiwan Resident Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Determine Eligibility
First, make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Resident Visa. Typically, you must have a job offer, be enrolling in a university, investing in a business, or joining family members who are already residents in Taiwan.
Prepare Documentation
Gather all required documents like your passport, purpose-specific documentation (e.g., employment contract, admission letter), financial statements, health certificate, criminal record check, and any additional paperwork needed for authentication.
Submit Application
Submit your application either online or in person at your nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) along with the required fee. Be prepared for an interview or additional documentation if requested.
Await Approval
After submitting your application, there may be a waiting period for processing. You can track your application status online or by contacting the office where you submitted your application.
Receive Visa and Enter Taiwan
Once approved, you will receive your Resident Visa. Make sure to enter Taiwan within the validity period of the visa and proceed to apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) after arrival.

Useful Taiwan Resident Visa Resources

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan)

National Immigration Agency of the Ministry of the Interior (Taiwan)

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO)

Taiwan Visitors Association

Taiwan Resident Visa Advice

When applying for the Resident Visa, make sure you have all your documentation in order, especially those that need to be authenticated by Taiwanese authorities. Also, keep in mind that eligibility criteria can be rather specific depending on your purpose of stay, so thoroughly check those details to avoid unnecessary delays.

Taiwan Resident Visa Guide

What Is the Taiwan Resident Visa?

Resident Visa Requirements for Taiwan

Valid Passport

Completed Application Form

Purpose-specific Documents

Financial Proof

Health Certificate

Criminal Record Check

Application Fee

How to Apply for Taiwan Resident Visa

Determine Eligibility

Prepare Documentation

Submit Application

Await Approval

Receive Visa and Enter Taiwan

Useful Taiwan Resident Visa Resources

Taiwan Resident Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

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