[Forumosa - Taiwan's largest and most active Taiwan-oriented global online community in English … 772#223772](ECCT info: R.O.C. visa application procedure tightened
That thread states the new rules, and they began to be enforced around that time (August 2004). People were being refused Visitor Visas to enter Taiwan to apply for work permits, and were instead forced to wait in Hong Kong until their work permits were faxed to HK, after which they were given Residence Visas based upon work outright.
Whether they have decided to scrap the new policy, or to apply they new or old rules on a case by case basis it isn