[quote=“nemesis”]What are the benefits of a TARC versus APRC? Which perks make it worth renouncing one’s original citizenship? Is the APRC a necessary stepping stone or can you get a TARC with a certain number of years as a resident? Sorry for all the questions…[/quote]A TARC (Taiwan Area Residence Card) is only given to people who have already renounced their nationality and are waiting for one more year to become a full Taiwanese citizen with all rights and privileges. It’s only a temporary status and isn’t something you can get any other way. Here’s the process.
-
An APRC or ARC holder decides to become a naturalized Taiwan citizen.
-
After submitting all the necessary paperwork and being qualified for Taiwan citizenship, the government gives you a certificate of candidature which states that if you renounce your current foreign citizenship within one year that you will become a Taiwan national, however, not a Taiwan citizen, yet.
-
Upon becoming a Taiwan national, you will be given the TARC and this is the temporary status you will maintain for a minimum of 1 year. You must not leave Taiwan during this 1 year “prison sentence” or the clock gets reset and you have to wait another year from the time you return.
-
After the one year of TARC status is complete, you need to go for one more final health check and upon passing, you will finally become a full Taiwanese citizen. At this time you must turn in your TARC and will receive your regular Taiwan id card and household registration.
So, the TARC is just a temporary status afforded to individuals who are waiting for their Taiwanese citizenship.