Knowledge Zone

The questions you most want answered regarding work visas

After working in Taiwan for a period of time, you may encounter issues such as visa extensions, wanting to change jobs, or wishing family members to visit Taiwan. This article compiles the most frequently asked visa-related questions to help you prepare in advance.

I. Work Permit Extension

Q: My work permit is about to expire, what should I do?

Before your work permit expires, your employer needs to apply for an extension with the Department of Labor. It is recommended to start preparing four months before the expiry date.

Important reminder: Failure to renew your work permit before it expires will affect your residency status. Please remind your employer to renew it in advance.

Q: My Employment Gold Card is about to expire, how can I extend it?

Employment Gold Card holders can apply for an extension online through the Employment Gold Card application platform up to four months before the expiry date, with each extension lasting 1 to 3 years.

II. Changing employers (changing jobs)

Q: Can I switch companies?

Yes, but please note:

• Foreign professionals (white-collar workers): During the validity period of their work permit, with the consent of the original employer, a new employer may continue to employ them . The new employer must reapply for a work permit from the Ministry of Labor.
• Employment Gold Card holders : No specific employer required, free to change jobs, no need to reapply for a work permit.

Q: What is the process for changing jobs?

1. Leave the company by mutual agreement with your former employer (note the notice period for termination stipulated in the contract).
2. The new employer applies for a new work permit from the Department of Labor.
3. After obtaining the new work permit, go to the Immigration Department to change the reason for residence.
4. Officially started working at the new company

Note: You may not start working at the new company before your new work permit is approved; otherwise, it is illegal to work there.

III. Extension of Residence Permit (ARC)

Q: My ARC is about to expire, how can I extend it?

Apply for an extension at the immigration service center in your place of residence within 30 days before your residence permit expires.

Required documents:

• Original passport and photocopy
• Existing ARC original
• Application form for foreigner's residence permit
• Valid work permit
• One 2-inch color photo
• Fees

Important: Failure to extend your ARC will result in fines and may affect your future residency status.

IV. Family Members' Dependency

Q: Can my spouse and children come to Taiwan together?

Depending on your identity category:

Q: How do I apply for family-based dependency?

1. Family members apply for dependent residency visas at the Taiwan Representative Office in their home country.
2. Within 30 days of entering Taiwan, go to the Immigration Agency to apply for ARC.
3. Required documents: Proof of kinship (marriage certificate/birth certificate, which must be verified), a copy of your ARC (Age of Registry), and a copy of your work permit letter.

V. Other Common Issues

Q: Can I re-enter Taiwan after leaving it?

Holders of a valid ARC (Authorized Travel Authorization Document) are entitled to multiple entry and exit permits and can freely enter and exit Taiwan. Please ensure that your ARC is valid before departure.

Q: Can I apply for permanent residency?

Those who have legally resided in Taiwan continuously for more than 5 years, spending more than 183 days each year, and meet certain conditions can apply for permanent residency. The application requirements are even lower for foreign professionals in specific fields and highly skilled professionals.

Q: What should I do if my work permit is revoked?

If your work permit is revoked (e.g., due to employer closure, illegal activities, etc.), you should contact the Ministry of Labor or call 1955 as soon as possible for assistance and change employers or leave the country within the specified period.

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The content of this article is based on the current laws and regulations of the Republic of China. The actual regulations are subject to the latest announcements of the relevant authorities.

※ Information Timeliness Reminder: The amounts, rates, market conditions, and regulations contained in this article are information as of the time of writing (2026). Basic wages, labor and health insurance rates, etc., may be adjusted every year. Please refer to the latest announcements from the competent authorities and current regulations for the most accurate information.