Hey everyone,
Looking for some advice or similar experiences regarding a Taiwan tax refund.
A bit of a background: I worked in Taichung as an English teaching assistant (TFETP) and completed my contract at the end of July 2025. Before heading back to the Philippines, I filed my tax refund at the Fengyuan branch. I was told my refund would be ready in August 2026.
Here is my dilemma:
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the problem: The TW bank account/debit card I registered for the direct deposit is now inactive/expired. I assume the automatic transfer this August will bounce.
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the logistics: Im currently in the Philippines. I don’t have close friends left in Taiwan to act as a proxy sadly (or anyone ive known long enough to trust or inconvenience)
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upcomingtrip: I am visiting Taiwan as a tourist this coming November 2026, but only for 5 days
I’ve already reached out to the Fengyuan tax office via email to ask if they can do an international wire transfer (telegraphic transfer) to my PH bank, or if they can issue an uncrossed check for me to pick up and cash instantly at Bank of Taiwan in November.
while I wait for their reply, has anyone successfully dealt with this before?
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Does the National Taxation Bureau actually do international wire transfers for foreign workers who have left?
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If the wire isn’t possible, how fast/easy is it to pick up a check at the tax office and cash it on a tight 5-day tourist schedule?
Any insights or tips would be massive. Thanks in advance!