Work Visa Regulations in Taiwan and Common Types of Permits

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Common Types of Work Visas in Taiwan

To work in Taiwan, Indonesian citizens must hold one of several types of work authorizations, depending on the duration and nature of the employment. The most common types are:

Employment Gold Card: This is a 4-in-1 card that combines a work visa, residence permit, alien re-entry permit, and work permit. It is valid for 1 to 3 years and is specifically designed for high-level professionals in fields such as science, economy, or culture. If you have a professional contract with a major Taiwanese firm, this is the premier option.

Work Permit: This is a mandatory document for the majority of foreign workers. It is issued by the Ministry of Labor (MOL) via the employer or the hiring company in Taiwan. This document is a primary requirement for Indonesian workers planning to work for a specific period in the country.

Alien Resident Certificate (ARC): This document serves as proof of your legal residency status. It is typically applied for after you arrive in Taiwan. To obtain an ARC, you must have a steady job or immediate family members residing in the country.

Work Visa Application Procedures

The application process for a work visa in Taiwan is quite rigorous and follows these general steps:

Job Offer: First, the Indonesian candidate must obtain a formal job offer from a qualified company or institution in Taiwan.

Work Permit Application: The employer applies for a Work Permit on behalf of the worker through the Ministry of Labor.

Visa Application: Once the Work Permit is approved, the worker can apply for a work visa at the Taipei Economic and Trade Office (TETO) in Indonesia.

Documentation: Common required documents include a valid passport, a formal letter of employment, passport photos, a copy of the Work Permit, proof of educational qualifications, and a health check result. Detailed requirements can be accessed via the official TETO website.

Requirements and Restrictions

Important requirements for Indonesian workers include having skills or qualifications that match the job description. In some sectors, specific years of work experience are required to secure a permit. Furthermore, the Taiwanese government implements quotas on certain industries to regulate the number of foreign laborers.

For professionals bringing family members, additional procedures apply, such as applying for a Dependent Visa. This is usually feasible for professionals with long-term contracts (one to two years) from reputable Taiwanese corporations.

Rights and Obligations of Indonesian Workers

Once you have obtained your visa and permit, you are entitled to the same rights as local workers regarding minimum wage, working hours, and safe working conditions under Taiwan’s Labor Standards Act.

However, you also carry obligations:

Immigration Compliance: You must renew your visa before it expires.

Reporting: You may be required to report to the immigration office periodically.

Legal Risks: Violating visa rules or labor laws can result in fines, revocation of the work permit, or deportation. Therefore, it is vital to ensure your contract remains valid and your documents are up to date.

Taiwan’s work visa regulations are designed to ensure that Indonesian migrant workers operate legally and contribute positively to the economy. While the administrative and legal requirements are strict, the process is straightforward if you and your employer cooperate effectively.

By following the steps outlined above, obtaining a work visa for Taiwan is not as difficult as it might seem. Understand the process, prepare your documents diligently, and good luck with your career in Taiwan!

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