Navigating Taiwan's Certificates
What's the difference between work permits and visas? Understand ARCs, APRCs, Work Permits, and Re-entry Permits, and how they apply to your stay in Taiwan
If you're thinking about moving to Taiwan for a while, it's important to understand these key certificates: ARCs, APRCs, work permits and re-entry permits. They can make a big difference in how long you can stay and what you're allowed to do while you're here.
Below are some key information to pay attention to regarding the differences between various certificates and permits.
Visa
When entering another country, securing a visa is essential. Visas come in two main types: visitor visas for short stays and resident visas for longer durations. They allow entry and stay for a specified period, with purposes like business visits or studying, and may include conditions like single or multiple entries, often overlooked by people. Note that visas alone don't authorize work; that’s what work permits are for.
Work Permit
Simply put, a work permit is what lets you work legally in Taiwan. It’s arranged by your employer, who acts as your sponsor. You should first sign an employment contract with the company (the employer). Then, the company will prepare the necessary documents and apply for a permit from the Ministry of Labor before you can start working in Taiwan. Remember, you can only work for the employer who applied for your permit, doing the job specified in the approved permit — unless you have an open work permit in the case of visa schemes like the Employment Gold Card or a Working Holiday visa.
ARC (Alien Resident Certificate)
Whether you entered with a resident visa or changed it within Taiwan, make sure to apply for your ARC within 30 days of receiving your visa or changing it. You can do this online through the National Immigration Agency.
The Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is like your temporary ID in Taiwan. It's your proof that you're living here, so it's really important. Make sure to keep it safe and always be aware of your residency expiration date.
Re-Entry Permit
The re-entry permit is usually processed together with the Alien Resident Certificate. If you enter Taiwan with a resident visa, you must apply for both within 30 days of arrival at the local service station of the National Immigration Agency. If you need to leave and return during your stay, apply for a re-entry permit before departing. This permit is usually multiple-use and cannot exceed the validity of your Alien Resident Certificate.
APRC (Alien Permanent Resident Certificate, aka PR)
APRC is the certificate you can apply for after you have legally resided in Taiwan continuously for five years and live in Taiwan for at least 183 days each year. Another case is that if you're a registered resident of Taiwan and your foreign spouse or children have legally resided in Taiwan for over ten years, with at least 183 days of residence each year for five of those years, they also qualify to apply for permanent residency.
If you still have questions after reading the above information, feel free to reach out to our dedicated Talent Taiwan help desk. Our bilingual service team is available to assist you with visa inquiries, as well as resources on work and life in Taiwan.