Has anyone successfully obtained a Taiwan resident work visa at a TECO office in a 3rd country while staying there on a tourist visa or visa-free entry?
I’m currently in Taiwan on a non-convertible visitor visa, waiting for my work permit and contract with my employer. My employer suggested that I could apply for the resident visa at any TECO office, and mentioned that Malaysia or Singapore would be the best options, but I’ve read that you need to apply from a country where you have long-term visa. Unfortunately, my home country doesn’t have a Taiwan mission.
I’ve emailed several TECO offices but haven’t received any replies yet.
If you are getting a work permit and already in Taiwan then do you need a resident visa? It would be handier if you just apply directly to the NIA for an ARC when you get your work permit. You could look into this:
Article 12
A foreign professional or foreign specialist professional who enters the State with a visa exemption or holding a visitor visa and who, having obtained a work permit or with exemption from obtaining a work permit, engages in professional work in the State, may apply directly to the NIA for residency, and if approved, shall be issued with an Alien Resident Certificate. https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawSearchContent.aspx?pcode=A0030295&norge=12
Oh wow, I had no idea this was possible! My employer told me I’d have to leave Taiwan first.
Thanks a lot for your reply - I’ll go to the NIA and ask them directly.
