⏳ Timeline for Graduates
Phase 1: The “Gap Years” / Job Seeking
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- Status: Extension of Stay for Job Seeking
- Key Points: Free exploration, no work permit needed.
- Application Rules:
- General International/Overseas Chinese Students: Extension: 1 year + 1 year (Max. 2 years).
- Hong Kong & Macau Students: Extension: 6 months + 6 months (Max. 1 year).
- Fees:
- Extension Fee: NT$ 1,000
- Exemption Annotation Fee: NT$ 500
- Required Documents: (1) Application Form (2)ARC (3)Diploma (4)Passport-valid for 6+ months
⚠️ Exclusion Clause:
This benefit is not applicable if you have already obtained an official work permit after graduation and then resigned. In that case, you must follow the standard regulations for changing employers or leaving Taiwan.
Phase 2: Formal Employment
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- Status: Employment ARC or Employment Gold Card
- Timing: When you decide to commit to a long-term position, or if you possess special expertise and wish to work independently.
1. General Foreign Professionals
This is the category for over 90% of fresh graduates.
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- Who: Professionals engaging in Specialized or Technical Work.
- Criteria (Please meet ONE of the following requirements):
- Salary Threshold: Monthly salary of NT$ 47,971 or higher.
- Points System: Accumulate at least 70 points (Based on education, language proficiency, experience abroad, etc.).
- How to Apply:
- Employer Initiated: Your employer submits the application for a “Work Permit” to the Ministry of Labor.
- Update ARC: Once you receive the Work Permit, visit the National Immigration Agency (NIA) to change your residency purpose to “Employment”.
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2. Specific Professionals & Employment Gold Card
If you possess exceptional expertise in Science, Technology, Economy, Arts, etc., you may be eligible for this “4-in-1 Super Card”!
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- What is it? It combines four essential legal documents into one: Work Permit, Resident Visa, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), and Re-entry Permit.
- Exclusive Benefits:
- Open Work Rights: You are not tied to a single employer. You have the freedom to switch jobs, work part-time, or freelance at any time.
- Tax Incentives: Enjoy special tax deductions on salary income exceeding a specific threshold.
- Family Perks: Simplified visa procedures for your lineal relatives (parents/children) to visit or reside in Taiwan.
- Criteria (Please meet ONE of the following requirements):
- High Salary: Held a monthly salary of NT$ 160,000 or higher in your most recent position.
- Special Expertise: Qualify under specific regulations for your field (e.g., recipient of prestigious international awards, or a PhD holder with specialized publications).
- How to Apply:
- Self-Application: No employer sponsorship needed. You can apply directly online via the “Foreign Professionals Online Application Platform“.
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3. Senior Foreign Professionals
Designed for top-tier talent possessing exceptional technical expertise or making distinct contributions to Taiwan.
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- Exclusive Benefits):
- Extended Validity: Work permit is valid for up to 5 years.
- Fast-Track to APRC: Enjoy relaxed requirements and an accelerated path to Permanent Residence (APRC).
- Eligibility Criteria: Must meet the specific qualifications for “Senior Professionals” announced by the Ministry of Labor (Typically requires extensive multinational experience or a high salary).
- Exclusive Benefits):
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💡 Summary: Which one should I choose?
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- Fresh Graduates: Start with Option 1: The Points System.
- High Earners / Experts: Aim for Option 2: The Gold Card.
- Executives / Specialists: Apply for Option 3: Senior Professionals.
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Phase 3: Permanent Residence – APRC
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- Goal: Full residency rights.
- Requirements:
- 5 consecutive years of legal residence.
- Residing in Taiwan for >183 days per year.
- Financial Proof: Monthly salary > 2x Minimum Wage.
- Degree Deduction:
- PhD: -3 Years
- Master’s: -2 Years
- Bachelor’s/Associate: -1 Year
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