Taiwan's government has introduced the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa, an appealing option designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs and investors. This visa offers several benefits that make it an ideal choice for those looking to establish a business in Taiwan.

Key Benefits of the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa

1. One-Year Business Setup Period:

Entrepreneurs are granted a full year to establish their business after arriving in Taiwan, eliminating the need to set up the business beforehand.

2. Multiple Entry Residency:

The visa includes an initial one-year residency with multiple entry privileges.

3. Visa Extension Opportunities:

Successful businesses can apply to extend their Entrepreneur Visa.

4. Team Collaboration:

Up to three team members can apply for the visa together.

However, to qualify for the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa, applicants and their team members must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Who is Eligible for a Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa?

To apply for the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa, you must meet at least one of the following conditions:

1. Venture Capital or Fundraising:

Secured venture capital or international fundraising exceeding NT$2 million.

2. Patents or Professional Certifications:

Holder of patent rights or a professional skills certificate.

3. Incubator or Innovation Park Residency:

Approved residency in a recognized incubator or innovation park in Taiwan.

4. Startup or Design Competition Awards:

Recipient of awards in leading startup or design competitions, or participation in a foreign entrepreneurship project.

5. Startup Accelerator:

Current or former involvement in a Taiwan-recognized startup accelerator.

6. Film Festival Recognition:

Your company or its head has received or been nominated for awards at a film festival.

7. Government Innovation Subsidy:

Received a central government innovation subsidy of at least NT$3 million or a local government subsidy of at least NT$1 million.

8. Innovation Capability:

Established an enterprise in Taiwan with innovative capabilities and an investment of at least NT$1 million, serving as its legal representative, manager, or director.

9. Government-Specified Innovation Capability:

Possession of innovation capabilities as defined by the Taiwanese government.

Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa Requirements

When applying for the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa, you need to provide various documents, which include:

1. Completed Application Form:

Must be printed and signed.

2. Passport-Sized Photos:

Two recent photos (35mm by 45mm) with a white background.

3. Valid Passport:

Must be valid for at least six months with three blank pages for the visa.

4. Investment Proof:

If applicable, documents proving venture capital investment, patent rights, or professional certifications.

5. Collaboration Agreements:

If residing in an incubator or innovation park, provide signed collaboration agreements.

6. Company Documentation:

If setting up an enterprise, include registration documents, permits, and investment proof.

Note: The required documents may vary depending on your specific business and situation. The Taiwan government may request additional documentation as needed.

How to Apply for a Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa

Applying from Abroad

If you are outside Taiwan, you can apply for the Entrepreneur Visa at a Taiwanese diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate). The process includes:

1. Completing and signing the online Taiwan Visa Application Form.

2. Gathering required documents.

3. Submitting your application at a Taiwanese diplomatic mission.

4. Awaiting approval from the Taiwan Investment Commission.

5. Receiving your Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa if the application is approved.

6. Upon arrival in Taiwan, apply for a residence permit within 15 days.

Applying Within Taiwan

If you are already in Taiwan on a Visitor Visa, you can apply to convert it to a Resident Visa (Entrepreneur) at the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA). The steps include:

1. Completing and signing the online Taiwan Visa Application Form.

2. Collecting the necessary documents.

3. Submitting your application to BOCA.

4. Receiving approval from the Investment Commission.

5. Obtaining your Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa and applying for a residence permit within 15 days.

Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa for Hong Kong and Macao Residents

Residents of Hong Kong and Macao can apply for the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa either through the National Immigration Agency in Taiwan or from abroad via the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.

Processing Time for the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa

Processing time varies depending on whether you apply from inside Taiwan or abroad. Domestic applications typically take 2-3 weeks, while international applications may take longer due to additional forwarding processes.

Taiwan Residence Permit for Entrepreneur Visa Holders

To stay in Taiwan for more than three months, you need a residence permit, known as the Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). This can be obtained from the National Immigration Agency after receiving your Entrepreneur Visa.

Duration and Extension of the Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa

The initial Entrepreneur Visa is valid for one year. If your business meets the necessary criteria, you can extend your visa up to two additional times, each for a maximum of two years. Extensions require proof of business performance, such as revenue or employment metrics.

Permanent Residency After Five Years

After five years of temporary residence, you may apply for permanent residency (Alien Permanent Resident Certificate, APRC) if you have resided in Taiwan for at least 183 days each year and can prove self-sufficiency.

Bringing Family Members to Taiwan

The Taiwan Entrepreneur Visa allows you to bring immediate family members (spouse and children under 20) as dependents on your application.

This visa presents a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to tap into Taiwan's thriving economy and innovative ecosystem.