Taiwan(ROC)
December 2009
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Taiwan. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
Overview
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Attend business meetings or discussions
- Attend sales calls to potential Taiwan client provided that the employee represents a commercial entity outside of Taiwan;
- Attend seminars or "fact-finding" meetings.
Type of Business Visas – The Visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
- Business Visitor Visa
Basic Requirements –
- Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- Good health and character;
- Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Taiwan
- No intention to permanently reside in Taiwan
- A ticket for onward travel from Taiwan
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Taiwan for up to three months during your visa validity period.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases
- a valid visa or authority to enter Taiwan
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment in Taiwan is a work permit. This is a Visa Category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Taiwan on a temporary basis.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled or managerial positions in Taiwan
Process Overview - The process for obtaining work authorization involves a three step process summarized below.
- Work permit application
- Visa application
- Alien registration certificate
Estimated Processing Time – six to eight weeks
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to three years.
Family Members – Secondary/ family dependants cannot work and study.
