Work Permits 101: A Guide for Foreign Freelancers in Taiwan
Whether you're a content creator, entertainer or gig worker from abroad, it's essential to understand your legal rights and risks when it comes to working in Taiwan
A recent spate of high-profile media personalities landing in hot water over work permit issues in Taiwan has shed new light on what actually counts as legal work for foreign nationals. From making a TV appearance to partnering on a short-term brand deal, casual and gig work in Taiwan exists in a gray area that many creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs — as well as their employers or sponsors — don’t fully understand. What are the implications of working in Taiwan outside of the traditional full-time model, and how can those engaging in short-term or project-based work in Taiwan protect themselves? We break down all that you need to know, so your one-off opportunity doesn’t turn into a visa nightmare.
How Does Taiwan Define “Work”?
In an increasingly digital economy, the way we frame work has become more fluid than ever before — and much harder to define. It’s something content creators and influencers, for example, have had to grapple with, as they walk the fine line between self-expression and commercial service provision.
Legally speaking, Taiwan defines “work” as the provision of any labor or service, regardless of whether it is paid or unpaid. Under Taiwan’s Employment Services Act, work is defined by the nature of the activity rather than by compensation.*
This means that short-term gigs — such as performing at a live event, filming a TV show or livestream, participating in a branded content shoot, running a paid online class or webinar from within Taiwan, or working on a freelance design job for a Taiwanese company — are all considered “work” and therefore require a work permit.
In the same vein, even internships, whether paid or unpaid, are classified as work, requiring a valid work permit before commencement.
There are some exceptions to work permit requirements, depending on the nature of the work and your visa status. For a breakdown of who doesn’t need a permit, visit the Talent Taiwan website.
*While the Employment Services Act does not explicitly define 'work,' official interpretations by Taiwan's Ministry of Labor consider it to include any provision of labor or services, regardless of compensation. The Risks of Working Without a Permit
Working without a valid permit isn’t just a technicality; it’s a legal issue that can come with serious consequences.
In February, South Korean cheerleader Nam Min-jeong and her sister Nam Ji-won found themselves at the center of controversy after Nam Ji-won was suspected of participating in an advertisement shoot in Taiwan without a proper work permit. Local media speculated that both the company and Nam were fined, with Nam facing the possibility of being banned from re-entry. Then, in April, South Korean influencer Jinnytty, popularly known as “Penguin Girl”, also made headlines after she was denied entry into Taiwan and banned from entering the country for three years, due to working illegally at a one-day event for a major video game company back in 2023.
On her YouTube channel, Jinnytty shared that she assumed the company and her agency had handled the legalities, underscoring a common reality for many foreigners who do not realize until it is too late:
“The company made a mistake and the agency also kind of made a mistake in a way, because they didn’t make sure that they [provided] a temporary work permit. And on my end, I should’ve checked; I should’ve asked. I worked with Taiwan companies before, so I thought everything was all good. That’s the basic thing they have to do.
So, Who is Responsible?
In most cases, it’s up to the employer or sponsor to apply for a foreign national’s work permit in Taiwan. This includes companies, event organizers, production teams, institutions, or even individuals who are engaging the foreign talent — whether for a one-time gig, short-term contract, or ongoing collaboration.
Though the onus may be on the employer, gig workers can take the following steps to protect themselves:
Verify Employer’s Compliance
Before accepting a job, confirm that the employer has applied for and obtained the necessary work permit. Avoid situations where you're working “under the table”.Understand Visa Implications
Be aware that certain visas, such as visitor visas, do not permit employment. If you need flexible working rights in Taiwan and depending on your situation, you can consider applying for visas with open work permits on your own, such as the Employment Gold Card or a Working Holiday visa.Consult Official Resources
Utilize official platforms like EZ Work Taiwan for guidance on work permit applications and regulations.Seek Legal Advice
If you’re uncertain about the legality of a job offer or the requirements, consult with legal experts or relevant authorities to ensure compliance.
For Employers or Sponsors
Applications are submitted to the Ministry of Labor’s Workforce Development Agency (WDA) via the online portal.
Processing typically takes 7-12 working days, but applicants are advised to apply at least 2-4 weeks in advance to avoid delays.
Employers who fail to apply may be fined up to NT$750,000.
Protecting Your Right to Work
Taiwan has become a thriving hub for creatives, freelancers, and international professionals looking to explore unique projects or collaborations. However, as recent cases have shown, lacking the proper legal clearance can carry serious consequences, even if it’s due to simple misunderstandings. While discussions about the proportionality of penalties for individuals and their employers or sponsors are ongoing, Taiwan’s current legal framework does place the responsibility on individuals to verify their work eligibility. It’s essential, then, for gig workers to clarify their work rights ahead of time and ensure that any professional activity being engaged, however informal or short-term, complies with local laws — as a way to safeguard their work, as well as their future in Taiwan.
