Taiwan set to launch new digital nomad visa in November
Taiwan is gearing up to launch a digital nomad visa next month, aiming to attract digital nomads from around the globe.
The National Development Council (NDC) announced that the initiative will commence in November, with the goal of bringing in 100,000 digital nomads—and hoping that 10,000 of them will choose to make Taiwan their long-term home.
The NDC's "National Talent Competitiveness Jumpstart Program" aims to add 120,000 foreign professionals by 2028, including 60,000 international professionals, 50,000 foreign and overseas compatriot students, and 10,000 digital nomads.
By relaxing regulations and fostering collaborations with regions like Tainan and Taitung counties, Taiwan is positioning itself as an attractive destination for international talent.
Here’s everything you need to know about Taiwan’s new digital nomad visa, including who can apply and what the conditions are.
Who can apply for Taiwan’s digital nomad visa?
The digital nomad visa is open to remote workers worldwide who are interested in experiencing life and work in Taiwan. While specific eligibility criteria are yet to be fully detailed, the initiative is part of a broader effort to attract highly skilled professionals across various sectors.
Currently, digital nomads travel to Taiwan visa-free or with a tourist visa that expires after three months.
The new visa will allow digital nomads to stay in Taiwan for up to six months—double the current allowance. The visa can be extended once for an additional three months without requiring legislative amendments, pending approval by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Why is Taiwan launching this visa?
The COVID-19 pandemic has made remote working more common, and the NDC aims to capitalize on this trend to boost the nation's talent outreach. "We are at a critical juncture", said NDC Minister Paul Liu (劉鏡清). "By welcoming digital nomads and foreign professionals, we hope to inject new vitality into our economy and society."
Attracting international talent has become even more important as Southeast Asian countries, traditionally major labor exporters, are expected to stop seeking jobs overseas by 2035 due to increased income levels.
Taiwan faces challenges such as an aging population and a declining birth rate, and this initiative is part of broader efforts to promote labor, immigration, and education policies.
What does the visa offer to digital nomads?
The visa allows digital nomads to stay in Taiwan for up to six months, with the possibility of a three-month extension. This extended stay will enable digital nomads to fully immerse themselves in Taiwan's rich culture and diverse landscapes.
Despite its compact size—Taiwan is roughly the size of Belgium—the island is brimming with opportunities for exploration. Imagine starting your day in a bustling coworking space in Taipei, completing your projects with a view of the iconic Taipei 101. By lunchtime, you could savor delicious street food at a local market before hopping on a train. In just 30 minutes, you might find yourself hiking the trails of Yangmingshan National Park or soaking in the hot springs of Beitou.
Digital nomads can also rely on a high-speed train system and, within an hour, explore the historic city of Tainan, known for its ancient temples and traditional Taiwanese culture. This efficient transportation network allows one to experience both urban excitement and natural serenity without spending hours in transit.
Taiwan is also celebrated for its friendly locals and safe environment. It ranks highly for LGBTQ+ rights, having become the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019. This inclusive atmosphere makes it an attractive destination for travelers from all walks of life.
How does Taiwan’s visa compare to other countries in the region?
Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand have already introduced digital nomad visas.
Japan launched a visa in March allowing digital nomads to stay for six months, though it is not extendable. South Korea implemented the Workation Visa this year, granting digital nomads a one-year stay that can be extended for another year. Thailand's Destination Thailand Visa allows digital nomads to stay in the country for up to 180 days with five-year multiple-entry permission.
Taiwan could leverage its proximity to Japan to attract digital nomads who have completed their stay there, offering them a new destination to continue their remote work lifestyle.
How to apply for Taiwan's digital nomad visa
Details on the application process are expected to be released soon. Interested individuals should monitor official NDC announcements and prepare necessary documentation, such as proof of remote employment and valid health insurance.
Will digital nomads be eligible for permanent residency?
To loosen restrictions on permanent residence for top-tier foreign talent, the NDC plans to submit draft amendments to the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals.
The proposed "global elite visa" would allow foreign professionals with a minimum annual salary of at least NT$6 million (approximately €178,000 or US$184,000) to be granted permanent residence after at least one year in Taiwan.
When does the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa start?
The digital nomad visa is set to launch in November 2024. With the start date just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning your Taiwanese nomad adventure.
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