Taiwan (TW)
A safe, democratic, tech-forward island with excellent public healthcare, dense transit, world-class food culture, and a strong base for East Asia.
Capital: Taipei
Region: Asia
Language: Mandarin Chinese
Currency: TWD (NT$)
Cost of living: Moderate (index 58)
Emergency: 110
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Time: Employer enrollment: immediate on start date. Self-enrollment: processed within 5 business days · Cost: 2026 general premium rate: 5.17% of insured salary. Employee share at NT$29,500 (min wage): ~NT$460–500/month. At NT$60,000 salary bracket: ~NT$940–1,050/month. Employer pays ~2.35× employee share
Deadline: Employer must enroll you from your first working day — failure is a legal violation. Self-enrolling residents: enroll before the 6-month waiting period window
Where to go: Through employer HR (most common), or NHI district office, or Household Registration Office for self-enrollment
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Employer enrollment form (if enrolling through employer)
- ✓ 2 passport photos
- ✓ Bank account details for premium direct debit (self-enrolled)
Tip: 6-month waiting period applies to non-employed ARC holders (e.g., dependents, self-employed waiting for first payroll). Employed workers bypass the wait via employer. Use the NHI MediCloud app (健保快易通) to see your drug history and appointment records. Any clinic in Taiwan — show NHI card, pay NT$150–300 copay, see a doctor within 30 minutes. This is one of the best healthcare deals in the world.
Local institution: National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA)
Time: ARC: approximately 10 working days; Gold Card: 30–60 days via goldcard.nat.gov.tw · Cost: ARC: NT$1,000 per year of validity (e.g. NT$2,000 for 2-year ARC). Gold Card: NT$3,700 (1-year) to NT$8,260 (3-year) depending on nationality
Deadline: Apply within 30 days of entering Taiwan on a resident visa; overstaying visitor status while waiting is a violation
Where to go: National Immigration Agency service centre — Taipei main office: 15, Guangzhou St., Zhongzheng District
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (6+ months validity)
- ✓ Resident visa (居留簽證) or Gold Card approval
- ✓ 2 passport-size photos (2×2 inch, white background)
- ✓ Lease agreement or proof of address in Taiwan
- ✓ Work permit approval letter (for employment ARC)
- ✓ Completed NIA application form (downloadable at immigration.gov.tw)
Tip: Gold Card combines work permit + resident visa + ARC + re-entry permit in one card — if you qualify (salary NT$160,000+/month or professional achievement), it is far superior to a standard ARC. Book NIA appointments online to avoid long walk-in queues. Bring photocopies of every document — NIA staff may keep originals or copies.
Local institution: National Immigration Agency (NIA)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Online: same day. In-person: 1–2 hours · Cost: 強制險 (compulsory): NT$720–1,600/year for scooter; NT$1,300–2,200/year for car. 任意險 (comprehensive): NT$5,000–15,000/year for car depending on model, coverage, and age. Third-party liability minimum NT$3M recommended
Deadline: Must purchase before the vehicle is ridden or driven for the first time
Where to go: Online at insurer websites, motorcycle/car dealer at purchase, or at petrol stations (for 強制險 renewal)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Vehicle registration certificate (行車執照)
- ✓ Driving licence
- ✓ ARC
Tip: 強制險 (compulsory) covers bodily injury to third parties up to NT$1.2M per person — required for annual vehicle inspection (定期檢驗). 任意險 (optional comprehensive) covers vehicle damage, higher third-party liability, and passenger injury. Given Taiwan's high accident rate, at least NT$5M third-party liability is recommended. Driving without 強制險: fine NT$3,000–6,000 plus vehicle impoundment. Use comparison sites (iRent or direct insurer) for best price.
Local institution: Fubon Insurance / Cathay Insurance / Mingtai Insurance
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Start 6 months minimum before travel: titer test → 30-day wait for valid result → import permit application (2–4 weeks) → travel booking · Cost: Import permit: NT$1,000–2,000. Quarantine facility: NT$500–1,500/night (7–21 nights). Titer test abroad: USD $100–250. Total: NT$15,000–50,000 depending on quarantine duration
Deadline: All documentation must be completed and verified before boarding the plane — no exceptions at Taoyuan Airport inspection
Where to go: BAPHIQ application online (baphiq.gov.tw); titer test at home-country accredited laboratory; approved quarantine centre at Taoyuan Airport
Documents needed:
- ✓ ISO 15-digit microchip implantation records
- ✓ Rabies vaccination certificate (valid within 12 months)
- ✓ Rabies antibody titer test result (≥0.5 IU/mL) from BAPHIQ-recognised lab
- ✓ International health certificate issued by home-country accredited vet
- ✓ BAPHIQ import permit approval (applied for online)
- ✓ Booking at approved quarantine facility
Tip: Taiwan's rabies-free status since 1961 (mainland) means strict enforcement. Quarantine period: 7 days for cats and dogs from designated rabies-free countries; up to 180 days from high-risk countries. Dogs from Taiwan-recognised rabies-free countries (EU, USA, Australia, Japan, South Korea, etc.) face 7 days. Always email BAPHIQ to confirm your specific country's current requirements — rules updated periodically. Use an approved pet transport agent if uncertain.
Local institution: Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (BAPHIQ)
Time: 1–2 hours at office · Cost: Microchip registration: free. Annual rabies vaccination (at city-organised events): free. Neutering subsidy: up to NT$2,000–4,000 at city-approved vets
Deadline: Within 30 days of quarantine release or purchase within Taiwan
Where to go: Taipei: Taipei City Animal Protection Office (台北市動物保護處) or your district office (區公所). Other cities: city animal control authority
Documents needed:
- ✓ Pet import quarantine release certificate
- ✓ ISO microchip records
- ✓ Rabies vaccination record
- ✓ ARC of owner
Tip: Taipei holds free annual rabies vaccination drives — check Taipei City Animal Protection Office Facebook page for dates (usually March–April). Dog registration is tied to your ARC address; update after moving. Unleashed dogs in public areas carry fines NT$10,000–50,000. Most parks require dogs on a lead except designated off-lead areas. Cats: registration encouraged but not legally mandatory in most cities. Keep vaccination records with you when visiting the vet.
Local institution: City government animal shelter / district office (區公所)
Time: Same day · Cost: Free
Deadline: Must update address within 15 days of moving — failure carries fines up to NT$3,000
Where to go: Any NIA service centre or Immigration Bureau branch in your city
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Lease agreement (showing your name and address)
- ✓ Landlord's household registration (戶籍謄本) — if landlord consent is needed for registration
Tip: Many landlords are reluctant to allow address registration because it increases their tax visibility — confirm permission before signing the lease. Without a registered address, banks, courts, and government agencies cannot contact you officially. NIA uses your registered address for ARC renewal notices — an outdated address means missed deadlines.
Local institution: National Immigration Agency (NIA)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: eTax account setup: 1 hour. Annual filing: 2–4 hours (or 1 hour if simple salary income only) · Cost: Filing: free. CPA fee if hiring: NT$5,000–25,000 depending complexity
Deadline: Filing window: May 1–31 annually for the previous calendar year. 2026 income is filed in May 2027
Where to go: eTax portal (etax.nat.gov.tw) for online filing, or local National Taxation Bureau branch for in-person assistance. English hotline: 0800-000-321
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Annual withholding certificate (扣繳憑單) from employer — issued by Jan 31
- ✓ NHI and Labour Insurance premium records
- ✓ Bank interest statements
- ✓ Foreign income records if applicable
Tip: Tax residency hinges on 183 days in a calendar year: resident = 5–40% progressive rate; non-resident = 18% flat on employment income. eTax portal auto-populates salary and NHI data from employer records — verify it matches your 扣繳憑單. Common deductions: NHI/Labour Insurance premiums (fully deductible), personal exemption NT$97,000, standard deduction NT$131,000 (single) or NT$262,000 (married). Keep all receipts during the year for itemised deduction option.
Local institution: National Taxation Bureau (財政部國稅局)
Time: 20–30 minutes online registration · Cost: Free
Deadline: Register within first month — crises (typhoons, cross-strait tension, health emergencies) happen without warning
Where to go: AIT (American Institute in Taiwan) — 100 Jinhu Rd, Neihu, Taipei. BECO (British) — 26F, President International Tower, Ren-Ai Rd. Other nationalities: search "your nationality + Taiwan representative office"
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Taiwan address and contact details
Tip: Taiwan does not host formal embassies of most countries due to its political status — your government operates via a trade or cultural office under a non-diplomatic name. AIT (USA), BECO (UK), CCNAA-equivalent offices for EU countries. Registration ensures you receive emergency evacuation guidance and SMS alerts in a crisis. Passport renewal is handled through your representative office — processing can take 4–8 weeks; start early.
Local institution: AIT (USA) / BECO (UK) / home country trade/cultural office
Time: De-enrollment: employer must complete within 3 business days of termination. Labour Pension payout: 30–60 business days processing · Cost: Free. Any outstanding NHI premiums must be settled before ARC cancellation — check balance at NHI office
Deadline: Coordinate at least 1 month before departure to allow all administrative closures to complete
Where to go: Employer HR for automatic de-enrollment; NHI district office if self-enrolled; BLI for Labour Pension lump-sum claim
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employer termination letter
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ NHI card
- ✓ Bank account (for Labour Pension payout)
Tip: Labour Pension lump-sum payout for leaving foreigners: apply at BLI before or after departure with passport, ARC cancellation proof, and bank account for transfer. Payout includes all accumulated employer 6% contributions plus returns; typically takes 30–60 business days. If you have voluntary Labour Pension contributions (up to 6%), those are also paid out. NHI card: return or surrender to NHI office at de-enrollment. Outstanding NHI debt: NHI can levy on any Taiwan assets and blocks future ARC applications.
Local institution: NHIA / Bureau of Labor Insurance / Employer HR
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Full process: 4–8 weeks. Begin 2 months before departure · Cost: CPA for departure tax + pension planning: NT$10,000–30,000. ARC cancellation: free. Labour Pension payout: no fee; payout NT$50,000–500,000+ depending on years and salary
Deadline: Begin the checklist at least 8 weeks before your planned departure date
Where to go: NIA (ARC cancellation), BLI (pension payout), NHIA (NHI closure), NTB or CPA (tax filing), bank (account management)
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Taiwan bank account details
- ✓ Labour Pension account balance from BLI
- ✓ Tax status from last filing
Tip: Complete departure checklist: (1) Give 1-month lease notice (verify exact notice period in your contract). (2) Book bulky waste pickup via 1999. (3) File early tax return or appoint tax agent (委任書). (4) Apply for Labour Pension lump-sum payout at BLI — allow 30–60 business days. (5) De-enroll NHI at district office. (6) Cancel utilities (electricity: TAIPOWER 1911, water: district office, gas: provider). (7) Decide on Taiwan bank account — keep open for tax refund/pension transfer, or close. (8) Cancel or port Taiwan phone number. (9) Cancel ARC at NIA on or before final departure. (10) Update NIA address to home country before cancelling.
Local institution: Personal / CPA / NIA
Time: 1–2 hours at branch; some banks offer online application but branch visit usually required for first account · Cost: No monthly fee for basic account at most banks. Recommended initial deposit NT$1,000–5,000
Deadline: Open within the first two weeks — salary payment, NHI direct debit, and rent transfers all require a local account
Where to go: E.SUN Bank (best English service), CTBC Bank (large network), or Cathay United Bank — branches near NIA offices or in Xinyi/Zhongzheng districts serve expats most frequently
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC (minimum 6 months remaining validity)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Local phone number (SIM must already be active)
- ✓ Employer letter or employment contract (recommended — speeds approval)
- ✓ Lease agreement as proof of address
Tip: E.SUN Bank and CTBC are consistently rated best for English-speaking expats — staff at Zhongzheng and Xinyi branches are experienced with ARC holders. Chunghwa Post (post office) savings account is the easiest fallback if banks refuse — no income requirement, just ARC + passport. Bring your employer letter even if not explicitly required — it doubles your approval chance. Taiwan banks require Chinese name on account — use the romanized name on your ARC.
Local institution: E.SUN Bank / CTBC Bank / Cathay United Bank
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks for approval; credit card mailed within 1 week of approval · Cost: Annual fee: NT$0–1,500 (most waived for first year or with spending requirement). No monthly fee
Deadline: Apply after 3+ months of salary deposits at the bank — approval significantly higher
Where to go: Apply at your salary-account bank branch; online applications also available once you have a local bank account
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC (with at least 6 months remaining validity)
- ✓ 3 months of payslips from Taiwan employer
- ✓ Bank account statement (existing account)
- ✓ Employer letter confirming salary
Tip: Apply at your salary-receiving bank first — they already see your income and are most likely to approve. Minimum income requirements vary: E.SUN starter card NT$28,000/month, Cathay from NT$30,000/month. E.SUN and Cathay credit cards offer good cashback (1–3%) at convenience stores, department stores, and restaurants. Avoid applying at multiple banks simultaneously — each application creates a JCIC inquiry and multiple rejections lower future approval odds.
Local institution: E.SUN Bank / Cathay United Bank / CTBC Bank
Time: 30–60 minutes in-store · Cost: Prepaid SIM (4G): NT$300–500 starter pack. Contract unlimited plan: NT$499–899/month. Chunghwa 5G unlimited: NT$999/month
Deadline: Get a local number as your first priority on arrival — everything else depends on it
Where to go: Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, or Taiwan Mobile stores; also available at Taoyuan Airport arrivals
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ ARC (preferred for contract plan; passport only for prepaid)
- ✓ Credit or debit card for monthly direct debit
Tip: Chunghwa Telecom (中華電信) has the widest coverage island-wide including mountains and east coast — best choice if you travel beyond Taipei. Taiwan Mobile and Far EasTone are cheaper in cities. Get a contract plan (not prepaid) ASAP — banks require a local contract number for OTPs; some landlords and employers also check. Download LINE immediately after activation — it replaces SMS, phone calls, email, and payments for most Taiwanese.
Local institution: Chunghwa Telecom / Far EasTone / Taiwan Mobile
Time: 30 minutes research · Cost: Official blue designated garbage bags (專用垃圾袋) in Taipei: NT$10–30 per bag depending on size — sold at 7-Eleven and FamilyMart
Deadline: Learn within your first 3 days — illegal dumping fines are NT$1,200–6,000
Where to go: Ask your building guard (管理員), check your city EPA website, or call 1999 (Taipei City hotline)
Documents needed:
- ✓ None
Tip: Taipei trucks play Beethoven's "Für Elise" and Maiden's Prayer — hear it → grab your bags and run. Most routes come twice daily (typically 8–9am and 7–9pm) 7 days/week. Recyclables (資源回收) and food waste (廚餘) are separated at the truck — bring them in separate bags. In Taipei you MUST use official blue bags for general waste; other cities vary. Your building guard knows the exact schedule — introduce yourself and ask.
Local institution: City Environmental Protection Bureau (環保局)
Time: 2–3 hours to shop and assemble · Cost: NT$2,000–5,000 for a complete kit: 10L+ bottled water, 3-day food supply, NT$500 power bank, NT$300 flashlight, first aid basics, NT$200 emergency radio
Deadline: Complete before June 1 — typhoon season runs June–October
Where to go: PX Mart (全聯), RT-Mart, Carrefour, Costco, or any hardware store for kit items
Documents needed:
- ✓ None — shopping and preparation task
Tip: On typhoon warning day (颱風假): city governments declare the holiday by 10pm the night before or 6am day-of — check via CWA app, LINE, or your city government's alert system. Stock at least 3L water/person/day for 3 days. Charge all devices and power banks as soon as a typhoon warning is issued. Do NOT go outside during the eye wall — the calm between storm bands is dangerously deceptive. Tape windows in an X pattern to reduce shattering. Know your building's wind-facing side.
Local institution: Central Weather Administration (CWA)
Time: Immediate to join online; first event within 2–4 weeks · Cost: Facebook groups, Reddit, LINE groups: free. InterNations full membership: NT$500–1,500/month
Deadline: Join within your first month to build connections before isolation sets in
Where to go: InterNations Taipei (internations.org/taipei-expats). Meetup.com groups. Facebook: "Taipei Expats" (60,000+ members), "Taiwan Expats" (80,000+ members), "Foreigners in Hsinchu". Reddit: r/taiwan, r/taipei
Documents needed:
- ✓ Phone number or email for group registration
Tip: Hash House Harriers (HHH) Taipei: weekly run/walk social group — hugely expat-friendly, very active. Taiwan Rugby Association: mixed nationalities, very welcoming. Taipei city hiking groups on Facebook: excellent for weekend mountains. TEALIT.com: older but still used for expat community info. For Mandarin practice: meet-up language exchange events at cafés in Daan and Zhongshan districts every week. Warning: Taiwan can feel socially isolating in the first 3 months — commit to one regular group activity.
Local institution: InterNations Taipei / Taipei Expats Facebook Group
Time: 15–20 minutes per platform · Cost: Free for standard pickup. NT$30–50 collection fee at some platforms
Deadline: Set up before your first online order to avoid delivery problems
Where to go: Register OPEN POINT (7-Eleven) or FamiPort (FamilyMart) accounts online or in-store
Documents needed:
- ✓ Taiwan phone number
- ✓ Convenience store app or loyalty card
Tip: Over 70% of Taiwan online purchases are picked up at convenience stores rather than home delivery. Key platforms: PChome 24h delivers within 24 hours island-wide; momo (Taiwan's largest e-commerce) has same-day delivery in Taipei; Shopee requires local phone number for verification. Register your phone number and preferred pickup store before ordering. 7-Eleven i-Bon machines handle package pickup, ticket purchases, bill payments, and photo printing. Building guard (管理員) often accepts packages on your behalf — introduce yourself on arrival.
Local institution: 7-Eleven / FamilyMart / Hi-Life convenience stores
Time: Purchase and install same day · Cost: Dehumidifier (8–12L/day capacity, Panasonic/Tatung): NT$5,000–12,000. Electricity cost: NT$300–800/month additional. Dehumidifier bags (除濕包, Naze brand): NT$100–200 for closets
Deadline: Set up within your first week — mold starts forming in 48–72 hours in humid conditions
Where to go: PChome 24h, momo.com, Costco Taiwan, RT-Mart for dehumidifier purchase
Documents needed:
- ✓ None
Tip: Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung, Yilan) is especially humid from November to April. Target indoor humidity: 50–60% relative humidity. Run dehumidifier continuously in bedrooms and living room during humid seasons; empty the water tank (1–2 litres/day is normal). Hang dehumidifier bags (Naze/乾燥劑) in wardrobes, shoe racks, and under beds. Bathroom exhaust fan: run during and 20 minutes after every shower. Open windows when outdoor humidity is lower than indoors (check weather app humidity reading).
Local institution: Household (purchase at PChome, momo, or Costco)
Time: 15 minutes to save and verify · Cost: Free
Deadline: Save on your first day — taxi and rideshare apps all use Chinese addresses
Where to go: Use Google Maps to confirm official Chinese address format for your building
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lease agreement (contains your official Chinese address)
Tip: Taiwan address format: City → District → Road → Section → Lane → Alley → Number → Floor. Example: 台北市大安區忠孝東路四段300號5樓 = Taipei City, Daan District, Section 4 Zhongxiao E Road No. 300, 5F. Save it as your phone's "home" address in Maps, in a sticky note, and on your LINE profile. Taxi app (Uber, LINE Taxi): set as "home" for one-tap destination. Emergency (119): your Chinese address is critical for ambulance dispatch. Always double-check that Chinese address on your ARC matches your actual residence.
Local institution: Personal
Time: 20–30 minutes · Cost: Free
Deadline: Set up within the first month of enrollment — needed for every clinic visit
Where to go: App Store / Google Play for 健保快易通; NHI district office for card issues
Documents needed:
- ✓ NHI card (issued after enrollment)
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Local phone number
Tip: NHI MediCloud (健保快易通 app) shows: all medications dispensed in the past 3 months, recent outpatient records, vaccination history, dental treatment history, and Lab results. Clinics read the NHI chip to see your recent prescriptions — prevents dangerous drug interactions. Report a lost NHI card immediately (NHI hotline: 0800-030-598) to prevent misuse. Card replacement: NT$200 fee at NHI office.
Local institution: National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA)
Time: 30 minutes for full setup including bank linkage · Cost: Free registration. LINE Pay transactions: free for bank transfer; credit card linked transactions incur standard card charges
Deadline: Set up within your first week — you will receive official LINE messages and parcel notifications immediately
Where to go: Download LINE from App Store / Google Play; set up LINE Pay in the LINE app wallet section
Documents needed:
- ✓ Taiwan local phone number (mandatory for LINE registration)
- ✓ Local bank account or credit card for LINE Pay linkage
Tip: LINE replaces SMS, email, and often phone calls in Taiwan. Employers, landlords, schools, and government offices all communicate via LINE. LINE Pay accepted at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, PX Mart, night markets, and restaurants. Apple Pay and Google Pay also widely accepted at contactless terminals. Taiwan Pay (台灣Pay) offered through all major banks has the widest merchant network. Never share your LINE QR code or 6-digit security code with anyone — LINE scams are common.
Local institution: LINE Pay / Apple Pay / Taiwan Pay
Time: 15 minutes to install and configure · Cost: Free
Deadline: Install on your first day in Taiwan
Where to go: App Store / Google Play
Documents needed:
- ✓ Smartphone
Tip: Taiwan Earthquake Monitor app: push notifications for quakes 4.0+ in your region within 30 seconds of event. CWA official app (交通部中央氣象署): authoritative typhoon warnings, accumulated rainfall alerts. Government Presidential Alert (國家級警報): automatic SMS-style alert to all phones in affected areas — no app needed, you will receive this. Drop-Cover-Hold protocol: drop to floor, get under sturdy table, hold on until shaking stops. April 2024 Hualien M7.4 — strongest since 1999 — was felt across all of Taiwan.
Local institution: Central Weather Administration (CWA) / EMIC
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Application to decision: 4–12 weeks. Waitlist clearance: 3–18 months at popular schools · Cost: Registration fee: NT$10,000–30,000. Annual tuition: NT$600,000–1,200,000 (USD $20,000–40,000+). Some schools charge capital levy NT$100,000–500,000 additionally
Deadline: Apply 12–18 months before your intended start date for TAS and TES; 6 months for Morrison Academy
Where to go: TAS admissions: 800 Zhongshan N. Rd. Sec. 6, Taipei. TES: No. 31, Jianye Rd, Shilin, Taipei. Morrison Academy: Taichung
Documents needed:
- ✓ Previous 2 years school transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
- ✓ Most recent school report card
- ✓ Immunisation records
- ✓ Passport copies
- ✓ Application fee (NT$10,000–30,000)
- ✓ Parent and student interview appointment
Tip: Taipei American School (TAS) is the most oversubscribed school in Taiwan — many families wait 2+ years. TES Taipei has British, French, and German sections — best option for European expats. Morrison Academy in Taichung is Christian-affiliated with a strong IB program and shorter waiting lists. For elementary age: Taipei Municipal Shida Campus International Program (EISD) is a cheaper NTU-affiliated option. Many companies offer education allowances — confirm before choosing a school.
Local institution: Taipei American School (TAS) / Taipei European School (TES) / Morrison Academy
Time: Immediate once invited · Cost: Free
Deadline: Join before the first school day
Where to go: Class teacher will add you to LINE group at the start of term — provide your LINE ID or phone number at enrollment
Documents needed:
- ✓ Taiwan phone number
Tip: Teachers send homework assignments, permission slip reminders, and emergency notifications exclusively through LINE in most Taiwan schools. Even at international schools, parent-to-parent coordination happens in LINE groups. Use Google Translate's camera mode (instant image translation) on Chinese LINE messages — it works extremely well for Traditional Chinese school communications. Mute group notifications during work hours if the message volume is overwhelming; important announcements are always repeated.
Local institution: School / class teacher
Time: Work permit processing: 7–15 business days standard; same-day available for some Gold Card holders · Cost: Free to verify status. Work permit fees paid by employer: NT$3,000–5,000
Deadline: Do not work on day 1 without seeing written approval — verbal confirmation from HR is not sufficient
Where to go: eZone Work Permit portal (ezwp.wda.gov.tw) — employers apply online; you receive a copy of the approval
Documents needed:
- ✓ Work permit approval letter from Ministry of Labor
- ✓ ARC showing matching employer
- ✓ Employment contract
Tip: Employer fine for hiring without valid work permit: NT$30,000–150,000 per violation. Foreign worker fine: deportation and re-entry ban for up to 3 years. Gold Card holders have open work rights — no separate permit needed, but must have ARC status. Check the permit validity dates match your contract start date. For job changes: new work permit required; old ARC must be updated within 30 days of employer change.
Local institution: Ministry of Labor (MOL)
Time: 15 minutes monthly · Cost: Free
Deadline: Start saving from month 1 — missing records are virtually impossible to reconstruct once employment ends
Where to go: Download monthly from employer payroll system; verify enrollment at BLI portal (eservice.bli.gov.tw)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Monthly payslip (薪資單)
- ✓ Annual withholding certificate (扣繳憑單)
- ✓ BLI insurance contribution statements
Tip: BLI online portal (eservice.bli.gov.tw) shows your full Labour Insurance and Labour Pension contribution history — check it quarterly to verify your employer is contributing correctly. APRC application requires 5 years of tax records and contribution history. Employer under-enrolling your insured salary (e.g., insuring you at NT$29,500 when you earn NT$60,000) reduces your benefits — this is illegal and unfortunately common. Email yourself payslips as backup.
Local institution: Employer HR / Bureau of Labor Insurance (BLI)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Review contract on day 1; check policy in first week · Cost: Free to review. Labour Bureau complaint: free. Lawyer: NT$3,000–10,000 if dispute
Deadline: Review on your first day — evidence of overtime must be contemporaneous
Where to go: Employer HR first; city Labour Bureau (勞動局) if dispute. Labour Rights Hotline: 1955 (free, Chinese/English)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ Employee handbook
- ✓ Labour Standards Act reference (mol.gov.tw)
Tip: LSA overtime rules: first 2 hours OT = 4/3 of normal hourly rate (133%); hours 3–4 = 5/3 (167%); rest-day (例假) OT = double (200%). Monthly overtime cap: 54 hours (or 100 hours per 2 months). Many Hsinchu tech companies apply a compensatory leave system instead of cash OT — legally acceptable if agreed in writing. Keep your own calendar record of overtime hours — employer records have sometimes been found inaccurate in disputes. File Labour Bureau complaint (1955) for unpaid OT — resolution usually within 30 days.
Local institution: Employer HR / City Labour Bureau (勞動局)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 days for professional review · Cost: Legal Aid Foundation: free. Employment lawyer: NT$3,000–10,000
Deadline: Before signing the employment contract
Where to go: Legal Aid Foundation (free first consultation, laf.org.tw). Employment lawyer: NT$3,000–10,000 per consultation
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ Non-compete clause text
Tip: Taiwan LSA Article 9-1 requires non-compete clauses to specify: the restricted industry/region/period, and the employer must pay compensation during the restricted period of at least 50% of average monthly wage. Non-competes without compensation are legally unenforceable in Taiwan courts. Maximum enforceable duration: 2 years. Common abuse: tech companies in Hsinchu write overly broad clauses hoping employees won't know their rights. Even unenforceable clauses cause stress — better to negotiate revision before signing than dispute after.
Local institution: Employment lawyer / Legal Aid Foundation
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Application processing: 2–4 weeks · Cost: Public-subsidised childcare: NT$5,000–10,000/month after subsidy. Private certified childcare: NT$15,000–30,000/month before subsidy
Deadline: Apply as early as possible — public childcare spots have 6–18 month waitlists in Taipei and Hsinchu
Where to go: District office (區公所) social welfare section, or city Social Welfare Department online portal
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC (both parents if applicable)
- ✓ Child's birth certificate or Taiwan household registration
- ✓ Childcare enrollment contract
- ✓ Proof of income
- ✓ Application form (downloadable from city social welfare website)
Tip: Taiwan's Childcare Subsidy Program (準公共化托育補助): NT$6,000–11,000/month subsidy depending on income for children aged 0–2 in approved private childcare providers. Families with Taiwan household registration (户籍) or ARC children may be eligible. Public daycare (公立托嬰中心): monthly fees NT$5,000–8,000 — extremely competitive. Register for the waiting list at district office within days of confirming your address. Hsinchu city offers additional subsidies for tech industry parents.
Local institution: Social Welfare Department (社會局) / District Office (區公所)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes to check balance and set up voluntary deduction · Cost: Free. Voluntary contributions reduce your taxable income at filing (up to 6% of salary deductible)
Deadline: Set up voluntary contributions as early as possible to maximise the tax benefit each year
Where to go: BLI portal (eservice.bli.gov.tw) to check balance; employer HR to set up voluntary contributions
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ BLI portal login
- ✓ Payslip
- ✓ Voluntary contribution form (from employer HR)
Tip: Labour Pension is a portable defined-contribution account — it follows you between jobs. Your individual account balance is yours forever regardless of how long you stay in Taiwan. Foreign workers can receive a lump-sum payout when leaving Taiwan (apply at BLI). Voluntary contributions of up to 6% of monthly wages are fully tax-deductible. At 2026 minimum wage NT$29,500: employer must contribute at least NT$1,770/month to your account.
Local institution: Bureau of Labor Insurance (BLI)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 12–24 months to build a meaningful credit record · Cost: Credit card: NT$0–1,500 annual fee (usually waived year 1). JCIC credit report: NT$100–200
Deadline: Start immediately — earlier is better; credit history compounds over time
Where to go: Apply for a secured or starter credit card at your salary-account bank. Check JCIC credit report at jcic.org.tw
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Bank account statement (3+ months)
- ✓ Payslips showing regular income
Tip: Foreigners start with zero JCIC history — banks see this as high risk for premium cards. Strategy: open a secured credit card at your bank (deposit NT$10,000 as collateral), use it monthly, pay in full every month. After 12 months of on-time payment you will likely qualify for a standard unsecured card. JCIC reports are checked for mortgages, car loans, and apartment rentals by some landlords. Check your JCIC report annually to spot errors.
Local institution: JCIC (Joint Credit Information Center)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Initial consultation: 2–3 hours. Full review: 2–3 days of document preparation + CPA time · Cost: CPA consultation: NT$8,000–25,000 depending firm and complexity. Full annual filing with international income: NT$15,000–50,000
Deadline: Review within the first tax year of Taiwan residency — retroactive corrections are costly
Where to go: CPA firms with international tax: Deloitte Taiwan, PwC Taiwan, KPMG Taiwan, BDO Taiwan, or specialised individual CPAs in Taipei
Documents needed:
- ✓ Foreign pension statements (US 401k, UK pension, German Riester)
- ✓ Investment account statements
- ✓ Foreign income records
- ✓ Taiwan tax returns for past 2 years
- ✓ Gold Card or ARC details
Tip: Taiwan's AMT: if your foreign-source income exceeds NT$1,000,000/year, it may be partially included in a minimum tax calculation. Taiwan has limited tax treaties (agreements with UK, Singapore, Australia, Japan, USA for some sectors) — check if your home country has one. US citizens face FATCA/FBAR requirements regardless of Taiwan status. Gold Card holders: 50% income exclusion applies only to Taiwan-source income above NT$3M — foreign income is separate. UK ISAs are not treaty-protected in Taiwan.
Local institution: CPA with international tax experience (Deloitte Taiwan, BDO Taiwan, independent CPAs)
Time: 1 hour research to identify options near your home and workplace · Cost: NHI clinic copay: NT$150–300. Hospital outpatient copay: NT$300–600+. Private English-only clinic (self-pay, no NHI): NT$1,500–3,500 per visit
Deadline: Identify within your first week in Taiwan
Where to go: NTU Hospital (International Department: +886-2-2312-3456 ext. 62131), Mackay Memorial Hospital (English Department: +886-2-2543-3535), Taipei Adventist Hospital, or GlobalMed Clinic for private English-only GP service
Documents needed:
- ✓ NHI card
- ✓ ARC or passport
Tip: For English-speaking doctors: NTU Hospital's International Medical Service Center, Mackay Memorial Hospital Zhongshan branch, Taipei Adventist Hospital, and Cathay General Hospital all have dedicated English-capable departments. In Hsinchu: NTHU Hospital and Cathay. In Kaohsiung: KMUH has an international patient unit. Outside major cities: ask your employer — many international companies maintain relationships with English-capable local hospitals.
Local institution: NTU Hospital / Mackay Memorial / Taipei Adventist Hospital
Time: Book 1–3 days ahead. Appointment: 30–60 minutes · Cost: NHI-covered scaling/cleaning: NT$50–200 copay (covered twice per year). Private filling: NT$1,000–3,000. Implant: NT$35,000–80,000. Orthodontics/braces: NT$60,000–150,000
Deadline: Book within first month — preventive care significantly cheaper than emergency dental
Where to go: Any NHI-registered dental clinic (牙醫) — Taiwan has one dentist per 1,200 people, among the densest in Asia
Documents needed:
- ✓ NHI card
Tip: NHI covers: scaling/cleaning twice per year, basic fillings, extractions. Implants, orthodontics, veneers, and whitening are all self-pay. Taiwan dental quality is very high — many dentists trained abroad. Popular for dental tourism: implants here cost 40–60% less than in the UK or Germany. No referral needed. Night-time clinics (open until 9–10pm) very common for after-work appointments.
Local institution: Local dental clinic (牙醫診所)
Time: 30 minutes to create · Cost: NT$30–100 to print and laminate
Deadline: Create within your first week
Where to go: Write yourself — use Google Translate for Chinese; laminate at any convenience store (NT$30–50)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Your medical records for allergies and chronic conditions
- ✓ Prescription medication list (include Chinese brand names if known)
Tip: Include in Traditional Chinese: 血型 (blood type), 藥物過敏 (drug allergies), 目前用藥 (current medications), 緊急聯絡人 (emergency contact), 國籍 (nationality). NHI MediCloud app also shows your prescription history to any NHI-equipped clinic — download the 健保快易通 app as a digital backup. Major hospitals (MacKay, NTU, Adventist) have English-capable emergency staff in Taipei — outside Taipei, English is much more limited. Key emergency numbers: 119 (ambulance), 110 (police), 1922 (disease control hotline).
Local institution: Personal
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes to set up and review · Cost: NHI MediCloud: free. Hospital medical record copies: NT$100–300 per page; full discharge summary: NT$500–2,000
Deadline: Request hospital records well before departure — typically takes 2–4 weeks to prepare
Where to go: NHI MediCloud (myhealthbank.nhi.gov.tw); hospital patient services (病歷科) for full medical records
Documents needed:
- ✓ NHI card
- ✓ ARC or passport
Tip: NHI MediCloud (健保快易通 app): shows last 3 months of medications, last 14 months of outpatient/hospitalization data, vaccination records, and lab test results. Any Taiwan clinic can read the NHI card chip for your medication history — critical for preventing dangerous drug interactions during emergencies. Hospital records (病歷) are legally owned by the hospital — you must formally request copies before leaving Taiwan. Immunisation records (疫苗接種記錄) are stored by the clinic that administered them — request before changing clinics or departing.
Local institution: NHI Administration / Hospital patient services
Time: 1–2 hours on move-in day · Cost: Free
Deadline: Must be done on day 1 — any damage you discover later is assumed to be yours
Where to go: Your apartment at move-in
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lease agreement
- ✓ Smartphone for timestamped photos/video
- ✓ Meter reading records (electricity, water, gas)
Tip: Send all photos to your landlord via LINE or email immediately after the walkthrough — the timestamp is legally meaningful. Record meter readings for electricity (電表), water (水表), and gas (瓦斯表). Note every scratch, stain, broken hinge, and appliance defect in writing. In Taiwan, landlords commonly deduct from deposits for pre-existing damage unless you have proof. Standard Taiwan lease: deposit = 2 months rent; landlord has 14 days post move-out to return it.
Local institution: Landlord / Building manager
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Legal Aid Foundation: same-day or next-day appointment. Lawyer: 1–3 business days · Cost: Legal Aid Foundation: free first consultation. Lawyer review: NT$3,000–8,000. Certified translation: NT$800–2,000 per page
Deadline: Before signing — once signed, all clauses are legally binding including the ones you did not understand
Where to go: Legal Aid Foundation offices (Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung) — free consultation available. Or bilingual immigration lawyer (NT$3,000–8,000 per review)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Draft lease agreement
Tip: Key clauses to verify: deposit cap (standard 2 months rent), early exit penalty (usually 1–2 months rent), cooking restrictions (open-flame cooking prohibited in many modern apartments), pets clause, address registration permission (critical for ARC), repair responsibility split, and lock/key change policy. Many landlords add a clause requiring you to pay their agent's commission — this is non-standard and negotiable.
Local institution: Legal Aid Foundation (法律扶助基金會)
Time: Before signing — same day · Cost: Free to negotiate. Some landlords request NT$5,000–10,000 additional deposit for pets
Deadline: Must confirm before signing lease — verbal permission is not legally binding
Where to go: Negotiate directly with landlord before signing
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lease agreement
Tip: The majority of Taiwan leases include a 不得飼養寵物 (no pets permitted) clause. Get written permission in the lease itself or as a signed addendum — not just a verbal "okay." Building management committees (管委會) may have their own pet rules separate from your landlord's permission. Check building rules (住戶管理規則) for additional restrictions on dog size, leash rules, and elevator use. Ask specifically about specific animals — a general "pets allowed" might mean cats only in some landlords' interpretation.
Local institution: Landlord
Time: 5 minutes per payment · Cost: Transfer fee: NT$10–30 per inter-bank transfer (or free within same bank)
Deadline: Establish bank-transfer-only rule before paying the first deposit
Where to go: Your bank app or any ATM for inter-bank transfers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Landlord's bank account details (get in writing at lease signing)
- ✓ Taiwan bank account
Tip: Include the payment purpose in the transfer memo (e.g., "11月租金 = November rent"). Screenshot every transfer and save in a dedicated folder. If landlord insists on cash, demand a signed receipt (收據) with: date, amount, purpose, and landlord's signature and chop (印章) — this is legally valid. Standard Taiwan deposit: 2 months rent. Deposit must be returned within the agreed timeframe after move-out (typically 14 days) minus any legitimate deductions for damage beyond normal wear.
Local institution: Landlord / bank
Time: Book 3–7 days in advance; pickup on scheduled day · Cost: Most items: free pickup. Some large appliances: NT$100–300 fee. Mattresses and sofas: free under Taipei's programme
Deadline: Book at least 5 business days before your move-out date
Where to go: Taipei: call 1999 or use Taipei City e-service app (台北市民服務大平台). Other cities: city EPA hotline or website
Documents needed:
- ✓ Item description and move-out date
Tip: Taipei City 1999 handles: furniture, appliances, bicycles, mattresses. Appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, ACs): separate recycling programme — call 0800-085-717 or use the household appliance recycling website (epa.gov.tw). Donation option: OK地圖 app and Facebook Marketplace groups allow free furniture pickup by people who need it — good for usable items. Building guard often knows which recyclable collectors (資源回收車) come by — timing recycling with their schedule saves fees.
Local institution: City government / 1999 Taipei City Hotline
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours research; structural engineer inspection if desired: half day · Cost: Online database check: free. Structural engineer inspection: NT$5,000–15,000
Deadline: Before signing lease — especially for buildings in earthquake-prone areas (Hualien, Taitung, Nantou, Taipei basin)
Where to go: CPAMI online building database (cpami.gov.tw) — search by address or building number; or local city government building information portal
Documents needed:
- ✓ Building construction permit number (使用執照號碼) from landlord
- ✓ Building address
Tip: Buildings constructed before 1999 (pre-Chi-Chi earthquake code update) or before 2011 (further code revision) may use outdated seismic standards. Illegal rooftop additions (違建 weijian) are extremely common in Taiwan and structurally risky — visually inspect for obvious additions. Taipei basin has soft alluvial soil that amplifies seismic waves — especially areas near Danshui River and Keelungh River. Buildings with "soft story" parking on ground floor (piloti structure) are particularly vulnerable. Purchase earthquake insurance (地震險) add-on if renting contents insurance.
Local institution: Construction and Planning Agency (CPAMI) / Landlord
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Application processing: 2–4 weeks. Eligibility period: 3–5 years of residence · Cost: APRC application fee: NT$1,000. No annual renewal fee once obtained
Deadline: Start planning from year 1 — travel habits, income levels, and tax filing must all qualify for the entire period
Where to go: NIA for application; eligibility self-check at immigration.gov.tw
Documents needed:
- ✓ All ARC cards (including expired ones)
- ✓ Passport with entry/exit stamps
- ✓ Annual income tax returns (last 3–5 years)
- ✓ Labour Insurance and Labour Pension contribution records
Tip: Gold Card holders: eligible for APRC after 3 continuous years (shorter than the standard 5 years). Standard ARC holders: 5 continuous years with no more than 183 days outside Taiwan per year. Income requirement: at least 1.5× the minimum wage per month (NT$44,250/month in 2026) OR property ownership or other proof of self-sufficiency. APRC holders do not need annual ARC renewal — card renewed every 10 years only. APRC is the first step toward naturalisation (further 5 years).
Local institution: National Immigration Agency (NIA)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Consultation: 2–3 hours; full legal analysis: 1–2 weeks · Cost: Immigration lawyer: NT$5,000–15,000 for dual-nationality analysis. NT$20,000–50,000+ for full naturalisation process legal support
Deadline: Consult before applying for APRC if naturalisation is a goal — understand the path completely before committing
Where to go: Taiwan immigration lawyer (NT$5,000–15,000 initial consultation). Home country representative office for home citizenship rules
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current passports (all nationalities)
- ✓ ARC history and current status
- ✓ Home country citizenship law research
Tip: Taiwan Nationality Act requires most foreigners naturalising as ROC nationals to renounce their original nationality — this is a firm rule with limited exceptions (HLD — high-level professional talent, or significant contributions to Taiwan). After renunciation, some countries (Germany, Netherlands) will not restore your original citizenship. Check your home country's rules first — USA and most EU states allow citizens to naturalise elsewhere and retain original citizenship. Taiwan requires: TOCFL A2 or basic Chinese proficiency test, NT$20,000+ monthly income, 5+ years legal residence (3 for Gold Card), and clean criminal record.
Local institution: Immigration lawyer / home country representative office
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Online application same day; coverage typically starts next business day · Cost: International plans (Cigna, AXA): NT$3,000–8,000/month depending on age and coverage. Local short-term plans: NT$2,000–4,000/month. Gold Card holders may waive waiting period — check with NHIA
Deadline: Buy before landing if possible — you have zero NHI coverage from day 1 until enrollment confirmation
Where to go: International insurers online (Cigna Global, AXA International) or Taiwan insurers (Cathay Life, Nan Shan, Fubon)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ ARC (if already obtained)
- ✓ Health declaration form
- ✓ Credit card or bank transfer for premium
Tip: International plans (Cigna Global, AXA International) also cover medical evacuation and treatment outside Taiwan — important if you travel frequently. A broken arm or appendicitis self-pay at a Taipei private hospital costs NT$50,000–300,000+. Gold Card holders: NHI may count your date of arrival as enrollment start — confirm this with NHIA before skipping bridge insurance. Keep all receipts for potential tax deduction.
Local institution: Private insurer (Cigna, AXA, Cathay Life, Nan Shan)
Time: Survival Mandarin (tones, numbers, directions, greetings): 6–8 weeks intensive. Functional conversational: 6–12 months. Near-native: 3–5 years · Cost: NTNU MTC semester: NT$20,000–35,000 (15 hours/week, 8 weeks). Private tutor: NT$600–1,200/hour. Language exchange: free (Tandem, HelloTalk)
Deadline: Start within your first month — language delay compounds daily
Where to go: NTNU Mandarin Training Center (best structured programme): 162, Sec 1, Heping E. Road, Taipei. NTU Chinese Language Division. Private tutors via Italki or local apps
Documents needed:
- ✓ None to start. Placement test at language school for enrollment
Tip: Taiwan uses Traditional Chinese characters (繁體字) not Simplified (简体字) — different from mainland China, Singapore, and most online Mandarin resources. The 4-tone system is the biggest challenge: same syllable, four different meanings depending on tone. NTNU MTC is the gold standard and very well-organised with morning/afternoon options for working professionals. Survival phrases that unlock immediate goodwill: 謝謝 (xièxiè = thank you), 不好意思 (bù hǎo yìsi = excuse me), 多少錢 (duōshǎo qián = how much).
Local institution: NTNU Mandarin Training Center (MTC) / NTU Chinese Language Division
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Registration: 1–2 months before test date. Results: 3–4 weeks after test · Cost: NT$1,200–1,800 per test level. Re-take fee same
Deadline: Plan testing timeline around APRC application, university admission deadlines, or employment goals
Where to go: TOCFL test centres in Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and select overseas centres. Register at tocfl.edu.tw
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport or ARC for registration
- ✓ Registration fee payment
Tip: TOCFL has 6 levels (A1–C2) matching CEFR; uses Traditional Chinese only. Band A (A1/A2) = survival; Band B (B1/B2) = conversational; Band C (C1/C2) = professional. APRC naturalisation path requires passing basic Chinese proficiency test (can use TOCFL Band A2 minimum). University admission often requires Band B or C. TOCFL is internationally recognised but less known than HSK (mainland China equivalent) — most Taiwan institutions accept both. Annual test calendar published in October for following year.
Local institution: TOCFL Test Center
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: TECO in home country: 1–2 weeks. MOFA Taipei: 3–7 business days. Full legalization chain (non-Apostille countries): 3–6 weeks · Cost: MOFA authentication: NT$500–800 per document. Certified Chinese translation: NT$800–2,000 per page. Apostille (Hague Convention countries accepted since 2023): country-specific fee
Deadline: Do this before leaving your home country if possible — TECO authentication is faster and cheaper than MOFA in Taiwan
Where to go: TECO office in your home country (cheapest and fastest) or MOFA authentication division in Taipei if already in Taiwan
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original document (degree, marriage/birth certificate)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Authentication application form
- ✓ Fee payment
Tip: Taiwan joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 2023 — documents from member countries now only need a single Apostille stamp rather than a full legalization chain. Documents in non-English/non-Chinese languages must be translated into Chinese by a MOFA-certified translator. Degrees from China, Hong Kong, and Macau require additional verification steps. Keep 3–5 certified copies of each document — each institution may keep one.
Local institution: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) / TECO office in home country
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–7 business days per document · Cost: Certified translation: NT$1,500–3,000 per page. Non-certified: NT$500–1,000 per page. Rush service premium: 50–100% extra
Deadline: Before any NIA, court, or employer submission where Chinese translation is required
Where to go: MOFA-certified translators list at mofa.gov.tw; or major translation companies in Taipei: East West Translation, Babel Translation
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original documents to be translated
- ✓ Requirement specification from the receiving institution
Tip: Always use Traditional Chinese (繁體中文) — Simplified Chinese (簡體中文) as used in mainland China is rejected by most Taiwan institutions. Use a MOFA-registered translation company for immigration and legal purposes — unofficial translations are frequently rejected. Order extra certified copies (at least 3) in one go — significantly cheaper than re-ordering. Birth certificates, marriage certificates, criminal background checks, and foreign degree certificates all commonly need certified Chinese translation.
Local institution: MOFA-certified translation company (合法翻譯社)
Time: Immediate — memorise the number 165 today · Cost: Free
Deadline: Know before you need it — scam calls happen within weeks of arrival for many expats
Where to go: Call 165 (free, 24/7) immediately if you receive a suspicious call or message
Documents needed:
- ✓ None — awareness and preparation
Tip: Taiwan's rule: Real police and prosecutors NEVER call to ask you to transfer money to a "safe account" (安全帳戶). If anyone on the phone claims to be police, customs, NHI, or a government official and asks for money or bank details: hang up immediately and call 165. LINE investment groups promising high returns (加密貨幣、股票投資群組) are almost universally scams. Fake parcel SMS links steal credit card data — only track parcels through official courier apps. Never share your NHI card details or ARC number with anyone except official institutions.
Local institution: Criminal Investigation Bureau (165 Anti-Fraud Center)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Company registration: 5–10 business days. Tax registration: additional 5–7 business days · Cost: Sole proprietorship (行號) registration: NT$1,000. Ltd company (有限公司): NT$3,000. Registered agent / virtual office: NT$3,000–8,000/month. Total setup: NT$10,000–30,000
Deadline: Before issuing any invoices to Taiwan clients
Where to go: MOEA Company Registration Online (gcis.nat.gov.tw) for company registration; National Taxation Bureau for tax registration and invoice system
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Taiwan registered address (or virtual office agreement)
- ✓ NT$50,000–100,000 initial operating capital
- ✓ Business plan and scope description
Tip: Foreign workers cannot freelance for Taiwan clients on a work permit tied to a single employer — you need either a Gold Card (open work rights) or your own registered company. Sole proprietorship (行號): simplest and cheapest; unlimited personal liability. Limited company (有限公司): liability protection; minimum 1 shareholder. Must have Taiwan registered address — virtual office services available from NT$3,000/month. After company registration, apply for GUI e-invoice system (統一發票) through National Taxation Bureau.
Local institution: Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) / National Taxation Bureau
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: CPA consultation: 1–2 hours · Cost: Self-tracking: free. CPA consultation: NT$3,000–8,000
Deadline: Decide by December 31 — the calendar year cannot be reopened once closed
Where to go: Self-track using passport records; consult a CPA for complex situations (multiple trips, year-end decisions)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport with entry/exit stamps
- ✓ Airline ticket records or e-gate exit history
- ✓ Employer payroll records
Tip: Taiwan counts physical presence days — partial days count. Below 183 days: employer withholds 18% flat (no filing required unless you want a refund). 183+ days: file progressive return in May, potentially at a lower effective rate. Strategic use: if you arrive in July and won't hit 183 days by Dec 31, consider whether staying longer into the new year resets the clock favourably. Exit history checkable at NIA portal with ARC.
Local institution: National Taxation Bureau / CPA
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Plan before May 1 of the first filing year — cannot be applied retroactively after filing · Cost: CPA fee: NT$8,000–30,000 for Gold Card tax planning and filing
Deadline: Must be correctly claimed in the first eligible tax return — deadline is May 31
Where to go: CPA with Gold Card experience — ask at Gold Card Office for recommended CPAs
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment Gold Card
- ✓ Employment contract showing salary
- ✓ Annual income records
- ✓ Tax residency start date
Tip: The 50% exclusion applies to income above NT$3,000,000 — on NT$5,000,000 income, you save tax on NT$1,000,000 (50% of the NT$2,000,000 above the threshold), potentially saving NT$200,000–400,000 in tax. Conditions: must be a qualifying foreign special professional; income must be from Taiwan-source employment; and the calendar year must be your first year as a Taiwan tax resident. Some interpretations allow a 3-year window — CPA essential.
Local institution: CPA with Gold Card / international tax experience
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks for full GUI system approval and setup · Cost: Government registration: free. e-Invoice software: NT$500–3,000/month. e-Invoice operator activation: NT$1,000–3,000
Deadline: Before issuing your first invoice to a customer
Where to go: National Taxation Bureau (National Tax Administration of Taipei for Taipei businesses). e-Invoice platforms: ezPay (藍新), iCHEF, or MOEA-approved providers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Company registration certificate
- ✓ ARC of company representative
- ✓ Business bank account
- ✓ e-Invoice software subscription
Tip: Taiwan's GUI system is mandatory for all registered businesses. Every invoice issued has a unique invoice number that participates in the national GUI lottery — winning invoices can earn NT$200 to NT$10,000,000 for consumers. B2B invoices: electronic only (e-invoice). B2C invoices: paper GUI or e-invoice via consumer phone number. Consumers can register their invoice wins via their phone number through the MyCoin (財政部電子發票整合服務平台) app. VAT (加值型營業稅) rate in Taiwan: flat 5% for most goods and services.
Local institution: National Taxation Bureau / e-Invoice Platform
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Begin planning 3 months before departure. Filing: 2–4 hours if straightforward; CPA: 1–2 weeks · Cost: Self-filing: free. CPA filing (departing expat): NT$5,000–20,000
Deadline: If leaving before May 31: must file early before departure OR formally appoint a Taiwan-based tax agent (委任書) before you leave
Where to go: eTax portal (etax.nat.gov.tw) for online filing; local NTB branch for in-person early filing; CPA for agent filing
Documents needed:
- ✓ Withholding certificates (扣繳憑單) for the full tax year
- ✓ Bank interest statements
- ✓ NHI/Labour Insurance premium records
- ✓ ARC and departure date
- ✓ Tax agent appointment letter (委任書) if filing after departure
Tip: Non-resident departure: employer withholds final salary at 18% flat — you may be owed a refund if you were resident (183+ days) that year. Labour Pension lump-sum payout on departure is taxable as a lump-sum income (分離課稅). If you had Taiwan bank interest, stock dividends, or rental income, these need separate reporting. Tax refunds can take 3–6 months after filing — appoint a Taiwan bank account to receive it, or a trusted person to collect and forward it.
Local institution: National Taxation Bureau / CPA
Time: 5 minutes · Cost: Card: NT$100 deposit (refundable). Top-up: any amount. Monthly TPASS unlimited regional pass: NT$399 (single city), NT$750 (northern region), NT$1,200 (island-wide) — exceptional value for daily commuters
Deadline: Get on your first day — needed for MRT, bus, and YouBike from the moment you arrive
Where to go: MRT station service counters, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Carrefour checkout counters island-wide
Documents needed:
- ✓ No ID required for anonymous card
- ✓ ARC + NHI card for personalised (named) card with travel discounts
Tip: EasyCard works on Taipei MRT, buses, and YouBike. iPASS works in Kaohsiung and on nationwide intercity buses. Both work at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and most convenience stores. The TPASS (台灣好行 monthly pass) is a major saving if you commute daily — NT$399/month covers unlimited Taipei MRT + bus rides. Auto-reload (悠遊付 app) prevents running out of credit at the turnstile.
Local institution: EasyCard Corporation / iPASS Corporation
Time: 10 minutes to register via app · Cost: Registration: free. First 30 minutes: free with registered EasyCard. NT$10 per 30 minutes after; NT$40/hour maximum
Deadline: Register within first week for commuter convenience
Where to go: YouBike app (download first), or any YouBike 2.0 docking station kiosk
Documents needed:
- ✓ Local phone number
- ✓ EasyCard or credit card for billing
Tip: YouBike 2.0 stations are dockless-capable and densely packed in Taipei, New Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. Link your EasyCard in the app for seamless tap-and-go rental. Ideal for trips under 2km — saves NT$60–100 per taxi ride. Download the app before needing a bike — app registration requires phone OTP and takes 5 minutes. Check for dock availability via the app before walking to a station.
Local institution: YouBike (微笑單車)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Exchange without test: same day (3–4 hours including vision check). Written test: 1 additional appointment · Cost: Exchange fee: NT$200–300. Written test: NT$200. Practical test (if required): NT$400–600
Deadline: No legal deadline, but IDP (International Driving Permit) is only valid for 30 days in Taiwan — exchange before it expires if you need to drive
Where to go: Motor Vehicles Office (監理所): Taipei: Tianmu branch (Zhongshan N. Rd. Sec. 7) and Beitou branch. Locations in every major city
Documents needed:
- ✓ Foreign driving licence (original)
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Certified Chinese translation of licence (if non-English)
- ✓ 2 passport photos
- ✓ Health certificate (視力檢查) — obtainable at MVD office on the day
Tip: Countries with direct exchange (no written or practical test required): USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, and ~40 others. Countries requiring written test only (no practical): some EU and South American countries. Countries requiring full test: most others. Check current list at MVD official site. An IDP alone is NOT sufficient for exchange — bring original licence + IDP. Car licence (普通小型車) and motorcycle licence (普通重型機車) are separate.
Local institution: Motor Vehicles Office (監理所/站)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Training course: 1–2 days. Licence test: half day. Full process: 3–5 days · Cost: Driving school course: NT$2,000–5,000. Licence test fee: NT$400–600. Helmet: NT$800–3,000 (mandatory by law)
Deadline: Obtain licence before riding — riding without a valid Taiwan licence and insurance is illegal
Where to go: Motor Vehicles Office (MVD) for test; any licensed driving school (駕訓班) for training
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Foreign motorcycle licence (if exchanging)
- ✓ Health certificate (vision test)
- ✓ 2 passport photos
Tip: Taiwan has approximately 50 scooter fatalities per 100,000 registered scooters per year — one of the highest rates in East Asia. New arrivals dramatically underestimate the chaos of scooter lanes. Key safety rules: always wear a full-face or at minimum half-shell helmet (NT$600 fine if not); use designated scooter lanes; do NOT run red lights (extremely dangerous even though locals sometimes do); keep left at intersections for turns. Ride defensively for at least 3 months before any highway riding.
Local institution: Motor Vehicles Office (監理所) / Driving school (駕訓班)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes to check online; dispute resolution: 2–8 weeks · Cost: Free to check. Labour bureau complaint: free
Deadline: Check within first month of employment — underpayment retroactive correction is limited
Where to go: BLI e-service portal online, or BLI service centre: No. 4, Yanping N. Rd., Taipei
Documents needed:
- ✓ ARC
- ✓ BLI login (register at eservice.bli.gov.tw)
- ✓ Payslip showing actual salary
Tip: Labour Insurance covers: ordinary injury (30 days waiting), occupational injury (day 1), maternity benefit (60 days at average insured salary), old-age lump sum or pension, disability, and death. Insured salary must match your actual monthly salary — under-declaration by the employer is the most common labour rights violation for foreign workers. File complaint at city Labour Bureau (勞動局) if underpaid; hotline: 1955.
Local institution: Bureau of Labor Insurance (BLI)