1. What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan?

The Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan, also known as the Employment Gold Card, is a special visa program created by the Taiwanese government to attract entrepreneurial and highly-skilled professionals to live and work in the country. It is designed for individuals who are engaged in remote work or freelance projects and do not need to rely on employment from local companies.

2. Who is eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa?

Eligibility criteria for the Digital Nomad Visa include:

– Foreign nationals with professional skills/expertise in high-tech industries (including internet, telecommunications, biotechnology, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and digital content) or innovative industries (including renewable energy, national defense, modern agriculture, cultural creativity and smart machinery).

– Individuals who have been issued patents or have received awards at international invention fairs/exhibitions or R&D achievements recognized by Ministry of Science and Technology.

– Owners of R&D-related patent rights/services that have been deployed commercially or startup companies approved by Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Startup Terrace Program.

– Individuals with experience as founders of world’s top 500 enterprises/the fastest grown/most profitable new enterprises or those working as managers over the past three years.

3. How can I apply for a Digital Nomad Visa?

You can apply for a Digital Nomad Visa through the National Immigration Agency of Taiwan. The application process involves submitting various documents such as proof of financial stability, health insurance coverage, and background check documents. After receiving approval from the NIA, you will be required to apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) at your local immigration office in Taiwan.

4. What are the benefits of having a Digital Nomad Visa?

Some benefits of having a Digital Nomad Visa include:

– No work permit required: As a Digital Nomad Visa holder, you do not need to obtain a separate work permit as it is included in your ARC.

– Health insurance coverage: You will have access to Taiwan’s National Health Insurance, which offers comprehensive coverage at an affordable cost.

– Multiple entry and longer stay: With a Digital Nomad Visa, you can reside in Taiwan for up to four years with multiple entries lasting for 3 months each time.

– Permission to bring dependents: You may be able to bring your spouse and minor children with you under the same visa.

5. Can I apply for permanent residency through the Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, after holding a Digital Nomad Visa for five consecutive years and meeting certain requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Taiwan.

6. Are there any specific requirements for the job or income of a digital nomad in Taiwan?

There are no specific job or income requirements for digital nomads in Taiwan. However, as part of the application process, you will need to provide proof of sustainable financial resources, such as bank statements or tax returns, to show that you can support yourself while living in Taiwan.

7. Can I work for Taiwanese companies with a Digital Nomad Visa?

No, the Digital Nomad Visa is specifically for individuals who do not require employment from local companies and are engaged in remote work or freelance projects.

8. Are there any restrictions on where I can live and work in Taiwan with a Digital Nomad Visa?

As a holder of a Digital Nomad Visa, you are free to live and work anywhere within Taiwan without any restrictions.

2. Who is eligible for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa?

Anyone who falls under the category of “digital nomad” is eligible for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa. This includes freelancers, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and online business owners who are self-employed or work for companies outside of Taiwan. Applicants must also have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration and must not have any criminal record in Taiwan.

3. How long does the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa last?

The Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the Employment Gold Card, can last for up to three years. It is a renewable visa, so it can be extended if you continue to meet the requirements and have a valid employment contract with a company in Taiwan.

4. Is there a limit on how many times I can enter and exit Taiwan with a Digital Nomad Visa?

There is no official limit on how many times you can enter and exit Taiwan with a Digital Nomad Visa. However, the visa is valid for one year and must be renewed every year if the applicant wishes to continue their stay in Taiwan. It is important to note that multiple entries and exits may raise suspicion and could potentially affect future visa applications. It is recommended to keep travel plans consistent and necessary while holding the Digital Nomad Visa.

5. Can I work for a Taiwanese company while on a Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, as a Digital Nomad Visa holder, you are allowed to work for Taiwanese companies while living and working remotely in Taiwan. However, it’s important to note that the visa is meant for individuals who have their own source of income and are not seeking employment within Taiwan. Therefore, if you plan on working for a Taiwanese company, it’s best to clarify this with the company and potentially consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure that your work status aligns with the requirements of the Digital Nomad Visa.

6. What documents do I need to apply for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa?

The documents required to apply for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa include:

1. A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
2. A completed Taiwan National Immigration Agency application form.
3. Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements or income tax returns, to support yourself while in Taiwan.
4. Proof of accommodation in Taiwan, such as a rental agreement or hotel reservation.
5. A detailed travel itinerary and purpose of your stay in Taiwan.
6. Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Taiwan.
7. Documents showing your digital work qualifications, such as academic degrees or professional certifications.
8. If you are working for a company, an employment certificate and proof of company registration may be required.
9. Police clearance certificate from your home country or any other countries you have lived in for more than six months in the past five years.

Please note that these requirements may vary slightly depending on your country of citizenship and individual circumstances. It is best to check with the nearest Taiwanese embassy or consulate for the most updated and accurate information.

7. How much does the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa cost?

The cost of the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa varies, as it depends on several factors such as the duration of stay and processing fees. As of September 2021, the estimated costs are:

– Application fee: $1,000 NTD (approximately $36 USD)
– Single-entry permit: $4,800 NTD (approximately $172 USD)
– Multiple-entry permit: $9,500 NTD (approximately $341 USD)

It is important to note that these fees may change at any time and additional fees for documentation, medical exams, and other requirements may apply. It is best to check with the Taiwan National Immigration Agency for updated information on visa costs.

8. Is there an age restriction for the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan?

Yes, there is an age restriction for the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan. Applicants must be at least 20 years old and not over the age of 50 at the time of application.

9. Do I need to have a specific skill or profession to apply for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa?

There is no specific skill or profession that is required to apply for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa. However, applicants must be able to demonstrate they have a stable source of income and sufficient financial means to support themselves while living and working remotely in Taiwan. This can include income from self-employment, freelance work, online business, or other sources. Applicants may also need to show proof of employment with a company outside of Taiwan or proof of enrollment in a remote work program.

10. Can I bring my family with me on a Digital Nomad Visa to Taiwan?

Yes, you can bring your family with you on a Digital Nomad Visa to Taiwan. However, each family member will need to apply for their own visa using the same process as the primary applicant. They will also need to provide proof of relationship and financial support for their stay in Taiwan. It is recommended that you consult with the nearest Taiwanese embassy or consulate for specific requirements for bringing family members on a Digital Nomad Visa.

11. Will I need to pay taxes in Taiwan while on the Digital Nomad Visa?

If you are a resident of Taiwan for tax purposes, you will be required to pay taxes on your income earned in Taiwan. However, if you are not a resident for tax purposes or if your income is sourced from outside of Taiwan, you may not be subject to taxes in Taiwan. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional for specific advice on your individual situation.

12. Can I apply for permanent residency through the Digital Nomad Visa program in Taiwan?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency through the Digital Nomad Visa program in Taiwan. After living and working in Taiwan for five years under this visa, you may be eligible to apply for permanent resident status. However, this will also depend on your individual circumstances and qualifications. Additionally, you will need to meet the criteria set by the National Immigration Agency of Taiwan for permanent residency, which includes being financially self-sufficient and having a clean criminal record.

13. How long does it take to process a Digital Nomad Visa application in Taiwan?

The processing time for a Digital Nomad Visa application in Taiwan varies depending on the individual’s circumstances and the workload of the relevant government agencies. Typically, it can take up to 4-8 weeks for a decision to be made on an application.

However, it is important to note that the application process may take longer if additional documents or information are requested by the authorities. Therefore, it is recommended to apply as early as possible to allow ample time for processing.

14. Are there any additional requirements or restrictions for self-employed digital nomads applying for this visa?

It is recommended to consult with the specific country’s embassy or consulate for any additional requirements or restrictions for self-employed digital nomads applying for this visa. Some countries may have additional financial or business documentation requirements or may restrict certain types of self-employment activities. It is important to thoroughly research and understand the regulations and laws in the destination country before applying for a digital nomad visa.

15. Can I change my status from a tourist or business visa to a Digital Nomad Visa while in Taiwan?

Yes, it is possible to change your visa status from a tourist or business visa to a Digital Nomad Visa while in Taiwan. However, you will need to follow the proper application procedures and meet all of the eligibility requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or the nearest Taiwan Embassy or Consulate for more information and assistance with the process.

16. Does holding a Digital Nomad Visa allow me to travel and work outside of Taiwan?

No, the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) only allows you to live and work in Taiwan. It does not give you permission to travel outside of the country for extended periods of time. If you plan on traveling outside of Taiwan while holding a DNV, you will still need to follow the visa requirements and regulations of the countries you plan on visiting.

17. What is the difference between a Work Permit and a Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan?

A Work Permit and Digital Nomad Visa are both types of permits that allow individuals to work in Taiwan.
However, there are some key differences between the two:

1. Eligibility: Work Permits are only available for individuals who have been hired by a Taiwanese company or organization, while Digital Nomad Visas are open to freelancers, remote workers, and self-employed individuals.

2. Duration: Work Permits are typically issued for a specific job or project and can last anywhere from 3 months to 3 years, while the Digital Nomad Visa allows for a longer stay of up to 1 year.

3. Sponsorship: With a Work Permit, the sponsoring employer is responsible for the application process and fees. For a Digital Nomad Visa, the individual is responsible for their own application and fees.

4. Residency requirements: Work Permit holders must reside in Taiwan for at least 183 days per year, whereas Digital Nomad Visa holders are not subject to this requirement.

5. Taxes: Work Permit holders are subject to Taiwanese taxes on all income earned in Taiwan, while Digital Nomad Visa holders may be exempt from taxes on income earned outside of Taiwan.

Overall, the main difference between these two permits is that a Work Permit is tied to a specific job with an employer in Taiwan, while the Digital Nomad Visa allows more flexibility for individuals looking to work remotely while living in Taiwan.

18. Will having medical insurance be necessary when applying for and staying in Taiwan on the Digital Nomad Visa?

It is not necessary to have medical insurance when applying for or staying on the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan. However, it is recommended to have adequate medical coverage to protect against potential health issues or accidents while in Taiwan. This could include private medical insurance, travel insurance, or a Taiwanese national health insurance card if eligible.

19. Are there any limitations on where I can live and work within Taiwan while on this visa?

There are no specific limitations on where you can live and work within Taiwan while on this visa. However, you must abide by all local laws and regulations regarding residency and employment. It is recommended to check with the local government for any specific restrictions or requirements that may apply to your intended place of residence or employment.

20.Can I apply for other types of visas, such as an Employment or Business visa, while holding a valid Taiwan Digital Nomad

Visa?

Yes, you can apply for other types of visas while holding a Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa. However, you will need to meet the specific requirements for each type of visa and provide all necessary documents to support your application. Keep in mind that having a valid Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa does not guarantee approval for other types of visas.