Taiwan Visas and Immigration (as of October 2025)

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Taiwan Visas for Retirement or Long-Term Stay 

Those planning retirement in Taiwan need to know that Taiwan does not offer a specific “Retirement Visa” like some other Asian countries.

Foreigners must therefore qualify for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) through one of the existing long-term visa categories, or maintain a long-term stay through a series of short-term visas.

Primary Options for Aspiring Retirees

Since a dedicated retirement visa is unavailable, retirees typically pursue one of the following long-term pathways:

1. Investment Residency (Recommended Path)

This is a primary route for financially stable individuals who do not have family ties in Taiwan or do not qualify as professionals.

• Requirement: A foreigner must invest a minimum of USD $200,000 in an approved business or enterprise in Taiwan.
• Process: The initial application is for a Resident Visa via a Taiwanese overseas mission (embassy/representative office). Upon entry, the NIA issues the corresponding ARC.
• Benefit: Successfully maintaining this investment and residency allows the applicant to eventually apply for an Alien Permanent Residency Card (APRC).

2. Employment Gold Card (for High-Level Professionals)

While aimed at working professionals, this visa offers immense flexibility that can suit a high-net-worth individual considering a soft retirement.

• Eligibility: Must be a foreign professional who meets specific criteria in one of eight fields (e.g., Science and Technology, Economics, Culture and Arts).
• Benefit: The card is a four-in-one document: it is a Resident Visa, ARC, Re-entry Permit, and an Open Work Permit (no employer sponsorship needed). This flexibility makes it an attractive option even for those who only plan to work occasionally.

3. Spouse of a Taiwanese National

The most straightforward path is for those married to a citizen with registered household status. The foreign spouse can apply for a Resident Visa and subsequently an ARC based on family dependency.

Path to Permanent Residency (APRC)

Regardless of the initial ARC category (Investment, Gold Card, or Family), the goal for a permanent stay is the APRC.

APRC Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the APRC, an applicant must generally meet the following two criteria, with some exceptions for Gold Card holders:

1. Continuous Residency: Legally and continuously reside in Taiwan for five consecutive years, with a physical presence of more than 183 days each year.
2. Financial Stability: Prove that they have sufficient assets or skills to live independently. This is typically satisfied by providing:
   • Proof of financial assets or real estate in Taiwan with a total value exceeding NT$5,000,000 (approximately USD $155,000).
   • Alternatively, having an average monthly income in Taiwan in the previous year that is more than twice the monthly minimum wage.

National Immigration Agency (NIA) Role

The NIA serves as the primary enforcement and service body for foreigners once they are in Taiwan, handling: 

• Change of Status: The NIA handles all applications for conversion from a Visitor Visa to a Resident Visa, ARC extensions, and changes in residency status.
• Dependent Family Members: The NIA manages the applications for dependent ARCs for the spouse and minor children (under age 20) of the principal ARC or APRC holder. Dependent ARC holders typically cannot work unless they acquire their own work permit or a Gold Card.

as well as the first point of contact for other government departments:

• Healthcare, Labor, and Taxation Advice: tthey typically direct applicants to the relevant central government ministries (like the Ministry of Health and Welfare or the National Tax Administration) for specialized advice on healthcare (National Health Insurance – NHI) and taxation.
• NHI eligibility usually begins after a legal resident has continuously resided in Taiwan for six months.

Resources for Immigration Information

The regulations have changed considerably over the years. Taiwan adjusts its immigration policies so the rules are considerably easier and more straightforward than ever. However, it is not without pitfalls or paperwork.   

National Immigration Agency (NIA) Contact Information

The NIA provides a nationwide hotline for foreigners and has service centers in all major cities and counties.

There are 25 centers located across the island. So you can visit the website to find the address closest to you. I link the URL here but it’s liable to change.

Warning – Beware of Fake Visa Scams in Taiwan

The National Immigration Agency (NIA) of Taiwan has issued repeated alerts about fraudulent visa services targeting foreign nationals. These scams often promise expedited processing, guaranteed approvals, or “special channels” in exchange for high fees and/or personal information.

Common Scam Tactics:

• Fake social media accounts or messaging apps posing as NIA officials
• Requests for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards
• Forged documents or fake approval letters with official-looking seals
• Bogus websites mimicking government portals

How to Stay Safe:

• Always use official NIA channels: https://www.immigration.gov.tw
• Verify with your local NIA service center before submitting documents or payments
• Never share passport details or visa application info with unverified agents
• Be skeptical of unsolicited offers or “urgent” visa deals
• Never handover your passport to unverified people

If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to the NIA or call the 24-hour immigration hotline: 02-2388-9393.

Resources related to content in the article

Glossary of Terms

Taiwan Immigration Glossary (Alphabetical Order)

If you are applying from abroad, please check out list of Taiwan Government Departments and Defacto Embassies abroad.