If you’re planning to study in Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), you'll need a Taiwan student visa. Taiwan is an appealing destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, excellent living standards, and welcoming atmosphere. The island also offers a rich cultural experience and stunning natural landscapes.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of obtaining a Taiwan student visa, including the different types, requirements, application process, and more.

Types of Taiwan Student Visas

Taiwan student visas are categorized as Resident Visas, which are meant for long-term stays. The main types of student visas include:

1. Full-Time Student Visa:

For those enrolled in PhD, MA, BA, high school, or lower levels.

2. International Exchange Student Visa:

For students participating in exchange programs.

3. Overseas Chinese Student Visa:

For Chinese students from overseas aiming to study in Taiwan’s educational institutions.

4. Mandarin Chinese Language Student Visa:

For individuals enrolled in Mandarin language programs.

Requirements for a Taiwan Student Visa

To apply for a Taiwan student visa, you will need to provide several documents:

Completed Application Form:

Fill out and print the Taiwan Student Visa Application Form online.

Passport:

Valid for at least six months with at least three blank pages.

Passport Photos:

Two recent passport-sized photos.

Proof of Enrollment:

Documentation from your Taiwanese educational institution.

Health Certificate:

Issued within the last three months by a recognized hospital. If obtained outside Taiwan, it must be legalized by a Taiwanese diplomatic mission.

Financial Support Proof:

Required for some applicants, such as full-time students and language learners.

Additional Documentation for Specific Cases:

1. Full-Time Students:

If studying at a high school or lower level, you must come from a visa-exempt country.

2. International Exchange Students:

Proof of enrollment from your home institution and a letter of approval from the Taiwan Ministry of Education if you’re a senior high school student.

3. Mandarin Chinese Students:

Proof of enrollment at a Mandarin Learning Center, completion of at least four months of studies, and proof of class attendance.

4. Overseas Chinese Students:

Approval letter from the Overseas Community Affairs Council and a notice of assignment from the Ministry of Education.

All documents must be in English or Chinese, or translated and authenticated by a Taiwanese diplomatic mission if they are in another language.

How to Apply for a Taiwan Student Visa

You can apply for a Taiwan student visa either before arriving in Taiwan or after you’ve entered the country:

1. Applying Abroad

   Complete the Application Form:

   Fill out the form online, print, and sign it.

   Gather Documents:

   Collect all required documents.

   Submit Your Application:

   Visit a Taiwanese diplomatic mission to submit your application within 30 days.

   Wait for Processing:

   Once approved, collect your passport with the visa affixed.

   Apply for a Residence Permit:

   After entering Taiwan, apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) at a local National Immigration Agency service center within 15 days.

2. Applying in Taiwan

   Eligibility:

   You can only apply if you have a Visitor Visa specifically for studying.

   Timing:

   Apply at least 8 workdays before your current visa expires.

   Residence Permit:

   Upon visa approval, apply for the ARC within 15 days.

Mandarin Chinese Students: Enter Taiwan with a Visitor Visa for Chinese language studies. After four months, you can convert it to a student visa and apply for the ARC.

Taiwan Student Visa Fees

Applying Abroad:

- Single-Entry Resident Visa: US$66

- Multiple-Entry Resident Visa: US$132

Applying in Taiwan:

- Single-Entry Resident Visa: NT$2,200

- Multiple-Entry Resident Visa: NT$4,400

Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) Fees:

- One-Year ARC: NT$1,000

- Two-Year ARC: NT$2,000

- Three-Year ARC: NT$3,000

- For Overseas Chinese Students: NT$500

Duration and Extension of Taiwan Student Visas

The Taiwan student visa itself is typically valid for up to three months. For a long-term stay, you must obtain an ARC, which can be valid for one, two, or three years, based on the Immigration officer’s decision.

Extensions: The student visa can be extended for an additional three months, but for longer courses, you will need to rely on the ARC. Extensions for the ARC must be applied for at least 30 days before it expires.

Working with a Taiwan Student Visa

While the Taiwan student visa and ARC do not automatically grant work permissions, you can work by obtaining a work permit. You’ll need to get a Consent Form from your school and apply for a work permit from the Workforce Development Agency (WDA).

By understanding and preparing for these steps, you can make your study abroad experience in Taiwan smooth and enjoyable.