Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is an East Asian gem, offering stunning natural landscapes that range from beautiful beaches to majestic mountains and valleys. With a highly developed market economy, Taiwan ranks as the 8th largest economy in Asia, making it a desirable destination for those looking to relocate.

This vibrant nation is known for its high living standards, affordable cost of living, and welcoming environment, attracting over 500,000 expatriates from around the globe. Taiwan is especially appealing for digital nomads, students, and anyone seeking a safe place with excellent living and working conditions.

Do You Need a Visa to Move to Taiwan?

If you're planning to stay in Taiwan for more than three months, you'll need a visa. Specifically, you must apply for a Taiwan resident visa, tailored to your reason for moving, such as work, study, or family reunification. This visa is essential for long-term stays.

Steps to Moving to Taiwan

To legally relocate to Taiwan, you'll need to secure a visa that supports an extended stay. Here’s how you can do it:

Moving to Taiwan for Work:

➤ If you have a job offer in Taiwan, you’ll need both a work visa and a work permit. Ensure your profession is listed under the categories specified by the Workforce Development Agency of Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor. Your employer must apply for the work permit before you can proceed with your visa application at a Taiwanese embassy or consulate in your home country.

Moving to Taiwan to Study:

➤ Those wishing to study in Taiwan must first secure admission to a Taiwanese educational institution. You can then apply for a student visa. Taiwan offers various student visas, depending on your educational goals, such as for full-time students, exchange students, overseas Chinese students, or those wishing to learn Mandarin. After your student visa is granted, you must apply for a residence permit (Alien Resident Certificate) within 15 days of arriving in Taiwan.

Moving to Taiwan for Family Reunification:

➤ If you’re joining a family member in Taiwan, you’ll need a Taiwan join family visa. This visa is available to spouses and minor children or grandchildren of Taiwanese citizens. Once in Taiwan, you’ll also need to apply for a residence permit, allowing you to live, work, and study in Taiwan.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Taiwan

Pros:

➤ High-Quality Healthcare:

Taiwan's healthcare system is ranked among the top 10 globally for efficiency. The country provides excellent care at relatively low costs, with modern facilities and qualified professionals.

➤ Low Living Costs:

Taiwan is an affordable place to live, especially if you’re coming from a major city. Monthly expenses for a single person are around €1000 to €1200, including necessities and rent.

➤ High Living Standards:

Taiwan offers a high quality of life, consistently ranking in the top ten globally.

➤ Education:

The country has a well-developed educational system and ranks high in reading literacy, mathematics, and sciences.

➤ Work Opportunities:

Taiwan's job market is booming, particularly for skilled workers and digital nomads, with various visa options available.

➤ Public Transport:

Taiwan’s public transportation is highly efficient, with Taipei’s system being one of the best-rated in the world.

➤ Friendly People:

Taiwanese locals are known for their hospitality, making it easier for expats to feel welcomed.

➤ Safety:

Taiwan is one of the safest countries globally, with low crime rates and minimal violent crime.

Cons:

➤ Crowded Cities:

Taiwan is densely populated, with cities like Taipei being particularly crowded.

➤ Language Barrier:

While English is spoken, especially in Taipei, Mandarin is the official language, making communication challenging outside the capital.

➤ Risk of Natural Disasters:

Taiwan is prone to tropical cyclones, especially between May and November, which can lead to road blockages and landslides.

➤ Air Pollution:

Taiwan struggles with air quality, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels and organic matter.

How Long to Live in Taiwan to Gain Citizenship?

To become a Taiwanese citizen through naturalization, you must hold an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and have legally resided in Taiwan for at least five consecutive years (three if married to a Taiwanese citizen), spending over 183 days per year in the country. Taiwan offers citizenship through birth, descent, and marriage, but naturalized citizens are generally required to renounce their original citizenship unless they work in a reserved occupational field.

Can I Bring Personal Belongings to Taiwan?

You can import personal goods into Taiwan, but they must be declared if they exceed duty-free limits. Personal items must be in reasonable quantities, with a value under NTD20,000 to qualify for duty-free importation.

Moving to Taiwan with Pets

Taiwan allows pets such as dogs, cats, and ferrets, but strict import regulations apply. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies, accompanied by a veterinary certificate, and undergo a rabies titer test. Some dog breeds, like Pit Bull Terriers and Japanese Tosa, are banned from entry.

Popular Expat Areas in Taiwan

- New Taipei: An ultra-modern city known for its rich cultural heritage, excellent public transport, and vibrant expat community.

- Tainan City: The oldest city in Taiwan, famous for its temples, cultural attractions, and affordability.

- Taipei City: The top choice for expats, offering excellent job opportunities, healthcare, and a vibrant lifestyle.

- Taichung City: A cultural hub with low living costs, known for its art scene and subtropical climate.

- Taoyuan City: Ideal for food lovers and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle, with a large expat community and mild winters.

Conclusion

Moving to Taiwan offers a unique blend of high living standards, affordability, and a welcoming environment. Whether you're relocating for work, study, or family, Taiwan provides a diverse range of opportunities and experiences for expatriates.