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Cross-border | How Foreigners Can Apply for Residence in Taiwan?
Today, with the development of globalization and the increasing exchange between Taiwan and other countries, more and more foreigners are choosing to come to Taiwan for work, study, investment, or family reunification. Taiwan has a complete and clear legal system for foreigners applying for residence, offering a variety of residence options. The National Immigration Agency also provides clear application procedures and requirements, helping foreigners integrate smoothly into Taiwanese society. However, despite the clear regulations and support, many foreigners still have questions or confusion about the application process for residence.
Legal Grounds for Foreigners to Apply for Residence
Foreigners who wish to reside in Taiwan cannot simply apply without justification; they must present a valid purpose for their residence and relevant supporting documents. Below is a brief summary of the purposes and types of residence:：
Work Residence, Employment Residence: Foreigners who obtain a job opportunity in Taiwan can apply for residence through a work visa. They need to provide a specific employment contract and proof of employment. Work residence is typically valid for the duration of the contract and can be extended.
Investment Residence: If a foreigner is making a commercial investment in Taiwan and meets certain conditions (such as investment amount, job creation, etc.), they can apply for investment residence.
Family Reunification Residence: If a foreigner is married to a Taiwanese citizen or has immediate family members (such as parents or children) living in Taiwan with household registration, they can apply for family reunification residence. This type of residence usually has more lenient conditions than other types and allows family members to live in Taiwan.
Study Residence: Foreign students coming to Taiwan to study at universities or other schools can apply for study residence. They need to provide proof of admission and enrollment (including student ID).
Special Circumstance Residence: For example, based on humanitarian reasons or special contributions, some foreigners can also apply for special residence permits.
Required Documents for Each Type of Residence
To apply for residence, the applicant (or an authorized representative with a power of attorney) must bring the following documents to the Immigration Agency's service stations:
Application form for foreigner residence (or temporary stay).
One recent color photo (taken within the last two years, front view without a hat, the same specifications as the national ID photo).
Original and copy of passport and residence visa (the original will be returned after verification).
Original and copy of supporting documents for the purpose of residence (the original will be returned after verification):
Family Reunification Residence: Proof of family relationship.
Work Residence: Approval letter from the relevant government agency and proof of employment issued within one month.
Investment Residence: Approval letter from the investment agency issued within three months (investment amount must exceed $200,000 USD), company registration (or change) forms, and a list of directors and supervisors.
Study Residence: Admission letter or proof of enrollment (including student ID).
Additionally, citizens of the People's Republic of China must comply with the regulations of the "Regulations for Relations Between the People of Taiwan and the People of the Mainland Area" and provide supporting documents for residing overseas for more than four years, along with verification documents from the Straits Exchange Foundation or overseas missions.
In summary, although the process of applying for residence as a foreigner involves certain procedures and requirements, understanding the regulations, preparing the necessary documents, and meeting the requirements are key to a successful application. If you have any questions during the application process, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional legal or immigration consultant to ensure each step complies with the regulations and increase the chances of success. We hope the information provided in this article will help foreign friends successfully complete their residence application and start a new life in Taiwan.
Reference: National Immigration Agency website (in Chinese)
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