Taiwan for LGBTQ+ Professionals: Work, Life, and Community
As part of Pride Month, we explore LGBTQ+ rights, visa pathways, workplace protections, and queer-friendly living in Taiwan for global talent thinking about making the move
For LGBTQ+ professionals considering a move abroad, Taiwan offers a rare combination in the region: legal protections, open civic space, and a vibrant queer community. As the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, Taiwan has been a beacon for democracy and inclusion — and it’s not just symbolic. In this guide, we break down what that means in practice for working, living and thriving in Taiwan.
Legal Residency for Same-Sex Spouses
Taiwan’s resident visa system allows same-sex spouses to apply for dependent visas, just like opposite-sex couples. That means you can legally live in Taiwan with your partner, long-term, with access to residency rights and health insurance.
The laws have continued to evolve. Previously, international couples (one Taiwanese partner and one foreign national) could only register their marriage in Taiwan if the foreign partner came from a country where same-sex marriage was already legal. But in a major shift, Taiwan’s judicial system began recognizing some of these marriages in 2023 — a landmark development for transnational couples.
Workplace Equality and Legal Protections
Taiwan is one of the few countries in Asia where LGBTQ+ workers are explicitly protected by law. Under the Employment Service Act, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against individuals based on sexual orientation, whether in recruitment, screening test, hiring, placement, assignment, evaluation and promotion. This means LGBTQ+ employees have the legal right to challenge workplace mistreatment and seek recourse through formal labor channels.
While the legal framework can add a layer of professional dignity and safety when navigating work in Taiwan, enforcement can still vary depending on the industry and individual employers in practice. Many LGBTQ+ community leaders say there is more room for progress, and advocacy groups have been working towards new benchmarks for businesses and organizations, such as the Taiwan LGBTIQ+ Inclusive Workplace Index.
Public Support and Political Representation
From Pride flags on government buildings to openly queer public figures, Taiwan’s progress on LGBTQ+ rights has become increasingly visible in public and political life. In a 2023 government survey on gender equality, over 60% of respondents now supported same-sex marriage — an increase of 25.2% since 2018, before marriage equality was legalized in Taiwan.
As for queer visibility in government, Taiwan has made notable strides in recent years, electing its first openly gay legislator in 2024. Numerous other politicians across local and national levels also identify as LGBTQ+, underscoring Taiwan’s growing commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Queer-Friendly Support and Services
From LGBTQ+-inclusive healthcare to grassroots mutual aid, Taiwan offers real community infrastructure for queer residents, including foreigners.
There are several, longstanding organizations that act as a support networks for those seeking health and legal resources, as well as community connection:
Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association (TTHA): The longest-running LGBTQ+ organization in Taiwan, TTHA provides peer counseling, hotline support, and community education.
Taiwan LGBTQ Family Rights Advocacy (TLFRA): A grassroots group supporting LGBTQ+ families through advocacy, public education, and legal assistance.
A Year-Round Queer Social Scene
Taiwan’s LGBTQ+ community is vibrant, visible, and woven into everyday life. Taipei Pride, held annually in October, is the largest in East Asia, drawing over 180,000 people in 2024. Throughout the year, residents can enjoy a range of queer-friendly events and gatherings across the country. Red House, in Taipei’s Ximen, is renowned for being a cultural hub, with LGBTQ+-owned bars and cafés, hosting events, exhibitions and drag performances. There are also festivals, including the Taiwan International Queer Film Festival, that celebrate and showcase queer stories from Taiwan and abroad.
Backed by legal protections, a sense of security and freedom, and thriving cultural landscape, Taiwan stands out as a place where queer professionals can not only live safely — but also belong, grow, and contribute to a dynamic, inclusive queer scene.
At Talent Taiwan, we’re here to support global talent to work, live and thrive in Taiwan. To explore more resources, visit our official website.