Taiwan Gold Card: Requirements and How to Apply

Taiwan is quickly becoming a top destination for digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich culture, affordable living, and reliable infrastructure, it offers everything remote workers need in Asia.

The Taiwan Gold Card is perfect for long-term stays for high-skilled professionals, offering visa benefits and even a pathway to permanent residency. While Taiwan also has a Digital Nomad Visa, the Gold Card is ideal for those planning to settle in.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Taiwan Gold Card—from eligibility to application steps, costs, and benefits—to help you plan your move with confidence. Ready? Let's dive in!

Taiwan Gold Card: An Overview

The Taiwan Gold Card is a comprehensive visa designed to attract highly skilled professionals from around the world. Often referred to as the “Dreamland for High-End Talents,” the Gold Card is awarded to individuals with expertise in fields critical to Taiwan’s economic and social development. It provides the following benefits:

• Work Permit: Enables holders to work for any employer in Taiwan.
• Resident Visa: Allows long-term residency in Taiwan.
• Alien Resident Certificate (ARC): Serves as an identification document for foreigners residing in Taiwan.
• Re-entry Permit: Facilitates travel in and out of Taiwan without additional documentation.

The Gold Card is valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the work permit’s duration. It can be extended within four months of its expiration date, for a maximum of three years each time.

Holders are also eligible to apply for permanent residency after five years.

Who Can Apply for the Taiwan Gold Card?

Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $5,700 USD (or its equivalent in other currencies).

They also need to show proof of expertise in one of the following fields:

• Architecture
• Culture and Arts
• Economics
• Education
• Finance
• Law
• National Defense
• Science & Technology
• Sport

How to Apply for the Taiwan Gold Card as a Digital Nomad

The application process is entirely online and managed through the National Immigration Agency (NIA) platform. Follow these steps:

1. Create an Account

• Visit the official Taiwan Employment Gold Card website.
• Register as a member and complete the required information.
• A verification letter will be sent to your email. Confirm your registration to access the application portal.

2. Submit Your Application

• Choose the "Self-Application" option.
• Fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
• Pay the application fee (see the cost section below).

3. Track Your Application

• After submission, you will receive a 12-digit case number.
• Use the "Case Status Check" function on the portal to monitor the progress of your application.

4. Receive Your Approval

• Once approved, download the e-Entry Permit and e-Receipt.
• For overseas applicants, print the e-Entry Permit and present it at immigration upon entry.

5. Collect Your Gold Card

Within 30 days of entering Taiwan, visit the designated service station with your original passport and e-Entry Permit to collect your Gold Card.

Documents Required for Applying for the Taiwan Gold Card

Prepare the following documents in PDF format (maximum file size: 1MB each):

• Passport Photo: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), valid for at least six months.
• Proof of Income: Recent income statements showing at least $5,700 monthly income.
• Professional Credentials: Documents proving your qualifications or expertise in one of the eligible fields.
• Previous Visa (if applicable): Copies of any prior Taiwanese visa or residence permit.
• Employment History: Dates and details of previous work in Taiwan (if applicable).

How Much Does the Taiwan Gold Card Cost?

The application fees vary based on passport type and application location:

U.S. Passport Holders (Abroad)

• 2-year validity: NT$7,300 ≈ $222.65
• 3-year validity: NT$8,300 ≈ $253.15

Non-U.S. Passport Holders (Abroad)

• 1-year validity: NT$3,700 ≈ $112.85
• 2-year validity: NT$4,700 ≈ $143.35
• 3-year validity: NT$5,700 ≈ $173.85

Applicants Already in Taiwan

• 1-year validity: NT$3,700 ≈ $112.85
• 2-year validity: NT$4,700 ≈ $143.35
• 3-year validity: NT$5,700 ≈ $173.85

Residents of Hong Kong or Macau

• 1 to 3-year validity: NT$3,100 ≈ $94.55

Fees for the extension of the Taiwan Gold Card

The fees charged to foreign nationals for the extension of their Gold Card, as referred to in the preceding paragraph, are as follows:

• 1-year extension: NT$1,500 ≈ $45.75
• 2-year extension: NT$2,500 ≈ $76.25
• 3-year extension: NT$3,500 ≈ $106.75

Timeline for Applying For the Taiwan Gold Card

The standard review period is 20 working days. If additional documents are requested, the process may take an additional 20 working days. Plan your travel itinerary accordingly to avoid disruptions.

What if I’m Not Eligible for the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa?

If you don’t meet the requirements for the Gold Card, Taiwan’s Digital Nomad Visa, launched in January 2025, is a great alternative. Designed specifically for remote workers, it has far less stringent criteria compared to the Gold Card.

You might also explore neighboring countries like Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan, which also offer attractive visa programs for remote professionals.

Paying Taxes as a Digital Nomad in Taiwan

Digital nomads are exempt from income taxes until the 183rd day of their stay and if they don't have any personal or business interests in Taiwan. In the case of a digital nomad, if the salary is not derived from Taiwan, it will be exempt from taxes.

Holders with qualified professions also enjoy discounted income tax.

Non-residents who live in Taiwan for less than 90 days in a calendar year are subject to an 18% withholding tax on their salary that comes from Taiwan.

However, an individual who lives in Taiwan for more than 90 days in a full calendar year but for less than 183 days is subject to a flat-rate tax of 18%, regardless of whether their salary is from a Taiwan-based company.

Optimize Your Nomad Taxes

Get customized tax strategies for nomads from Heavnn, ensuring you benefit from tax-friendly environments globally. 🎁 Use our code 'freakingnomads' to get 5% OFF your first purchase.

Get Tax Help & Claim 5% OFF

Are You Ready To Live and Work in Taiwan as a Digital Nomad?

If you want more digital nomad guides like these, sign up for our free newsletter and get upcoming articles straight to your inbox!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Receive nomad stories, tips, news, and resources every week!

Subscribe

Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup.

100% free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Written by Irene Lidia Wang

Italian/Chinese digital nomad. Passionate about empowering nomads through a safe space to share unfiltered stories, access resources, and navigate the challenges of remote living.

Why you can trust Freaking Nomads

Freaking Nomads is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free, helpful content. Learn more