Taiwan's Gold Card Offers Comprehensive Residency for Foreigners

Taiwan has introduced the Employment Gold Card, which consolidates four essential documents into a single card for foreign professionals. This card includes a resident visa, work permit, Alien Resident Certificate, and re-entry permit, valid for one to three years.

Holders can enter and exit Taiwan freely during this period and do not need a job offer to apply. The application process is online, taking about 30 days for straightforward applications and 50 to 60 days for those needing additional documents.

The work permit allows unrestricted job changes and part-time work. The resident visa permits stays longer than 180 days, while the Alien Resident Certificate serves as proof of legal residency.

The re-entry permit remains valid even during COVID-19. The card costs between USD 100 and USD 310, depending on nationality and validity length.

Cardholders can also benefit from tax exemptions and sponsor family members for residency. Permanent residency can be applied for after three years, with reduced requirements for graduates of Taiwanese universities.