Taiwan Gold Card

The Gold Card program in Taiwan is a special visa scheme introduced by the Taiwanese government in 2018 aimed at attracting high-skilled professionals across various industries, including digital nomads. The Taiwan Employment Gold Card is a combined work and residence permit that grants the holder freedom from traditional employer sponsorship, allowing them to live and work in Taiwan for up to three years with the possibility of renewal. The program targets professionals in fields such as science and technology, education, culture and arts, sport, economics, finance, law, architectural design, and more. Applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their expertise and accomplishments in their respective fields, such as having a high salary, holding advanced degrees, possessing recognized professional achievements, or having significant work experience. Eligible applicants for the Taiwan Gold Card are usually required to provide documentation supporting their expertise, such as letters of recommendation, proof of previous income, professional licenses, or employment records. The program is designed to be flexible, with no restrictions on the number of times the holder can enter or leave Taiwan and no minimum stay requirement, thereby catering well to the lifestyle of digital nomads looking for a stable base with the freedom to travel.

Who can be eligible for the Taiwan Gold Card programm for digital nomads?

Taiwan's Employment Gold Card is aimed at attracting high-level professionals in various fields to work in Taiwan. Here’s a shortlist of the specialist categories that may be eligible for the Taiwan Gold Card:

• Science and Technology
• Education
• Cultural and Arts
• Sport
• Economics
• Finance
• Law
• Architectural Design

In addition to those in the above categories, other potential eligible individuals might include:

• Remote Workers: Professionals who can work remotely and whose expertise aligns with the targeted industries.
• Business Owners: Entrepreneurs who plan to start or have started a business in Taiwan, contributing to the local economy.
• Startups: Founders or key members of startups that are recognized in their field.

To qualify, applicants must meet certain criteria, including a threshold of professional experience, salary, or possession of special skills in their respective fields.

Benefits of Working as a Digital Nomad in Taiwan

• Friendly Visa Policy: Taiwan offers a visa-exemption program for many countries, and the process to apply for a longer-term visa is relatively straightforward. There is also a Gold Card visa specifically aimed at attracting specialists, including digital nomads.
• Robust Internet Infrastructure: Taiwan boasts one of the fastest and most reliable internet connections globally, which is vital for digital nomads who rely on online connectivity for work.
• Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in Taiwan, especially when it comes to food and local transportation, is quite affordable compared to many Western countries, which can make it easier to maintain a high quality of life.
• Convenience: Taiwan is known for its convenience in terms of transportation, with a comprehensive public transport system and services like ubiquitous convenience stores that are open 24/7.
• Healthcare: Taiwan has a world-class healthcare system that is accessible and affordable, even for expatriates and those on a visitor visa, providing peace of mind for health-related issues.
• Safety: Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates, which is particularly appealing for those who travel or work alone.
• Cultural Richness: Taiwan offers a blend of traditional Chinese culture with Japanese and Southeast Asian influences, providing an enriching environment for those who appreciate cultural experiences.
• Natural Beauty: For those who enjoy outdoor activities during their downtime, Taiwan offers beautiful landscapes ranging from mountains to beaches, making it an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Expatriate Community: There's a supportive community of expatriates and digital nomads, which can help with networking, social activities, and settling into life in Taiwan.
• English-friendly Environment: While Mandarin Chinese is the official language, many people, especially the younger generation, can communicate in English, which helps reduce the language barrier.

How much does the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

The visa application fee is 210 EUR. Visa fee is non-refundable.

Processing time for the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan - Gold Card

The processing time for Taiwan's Gold Card, officially known as the Employment Gold Card, can vary depending on several factors such as the completeness of your application, the volume of applications the authorities are processing at the time, and any special circumstances pertaining to your application. Typically, the processing time is around one to three months from the date of the application submission. Please note that for the most current and accurate processing times, you are encouraged to check with the official Taiwan Gold Card website or reach out to the National Immigration Agency of Taiwan. Application processing times can change, so it's always a good idea to get the latest information directly from official sources.

How long can I stay in Taiwan as a Digital Nomad?

Visa on Gold Card is valid for 3650 days.

Paying taxes as a Digital Nomad in Taiwan

As a digital nomad in Taiwan, the taxation of your income can vary depending on several factors such as the source of your income, the length of your stay, and your tax residency status. Here's an overview of potential tax liabilities:

• Income Tax: If you are considered a tax resident (usually defined as staying in Taiwan for more than 183 days in a tax year), you will be taxed on your worldwide income according to Taiwan's progressive income tax rates. If you are a non-resident (staying less than 183 days in a tax year), you are subject to tax only on your income sourced in Taiwan.
• Business Tax: If you are providing services or selling goods in Taiwan, you may be subject to Business Tax under the Value-Added Tax (VAT) or Gross Business Receipts Tax system, depending on the nature of your activities.
• Withholding Tax: For certain types of Taiwan-sourced income such as royalties, rental income, or income from professional services, a withholding tax might be applied at the source.
• Property Tax: If you own property in Taiwan, you'll be subject to property tax, which is levied by local governments.
• National Health Insurance (NHI): Though not a tax, if you are a resident of Taiwan, it's compulsory to enroll in the National Health Insurance system, which requires a monthly contribution based on your income.
• Other Taxes: Depending on your activities, there might be other taxes such as Land Value Tax, Stamp Duty, or Commodity Tax.

Keep in mind that tax laws can change, and there may be double taxation agreements (DTAs) between Taiwan and your home country that could affect your tax situation. It's highly recommended to consult with a tax professional who understands the local laws and international tax treaties to ensure compliance and take advantage of potential tax benefits.

Is it possible to apply the Digital Nomad Visa in Taiwan for themselves as well as for dependents?

Yes, it is possible to apply for the Taiwan Gold Card program for oneself as well as for dependents. Here's a brief outline of the steps and conditions: [UL] [*] Apply for the Gold Card: You will need to apply for the Taiwan Employment Gold Card as an individual by providing relevant documentation such as evidence of your professional skills, salary, employment history, etc. The Gold Card acts as an open work permit, resident visa, and more. [*] Assessment: The application will be assessed against various criteria specific to your field of expertise. This program is designed for highly-skilled professionals in areas like technology, business, art, and academia. [*] After Approval: Once you've been approved and have acquired your Taiwan Gold Card, you can then apply for your dependents to join you. [*] Dependents' Applications: For your dependents' applications, you'll need to provide evidence of the family relationship (such as marriage certificates or birth certificates). [*] Visas for Dependents: Your dependents will require their own visas, which might be in the form of visitor visas or resident visas, depending on the length and purpose of their stay. [*] Continuation of Status: Typically, as long as your Gold Card is valid, your dependents can remain in Taiwan. It's essential to keep track of any visa duration and renewal requirements to ensure they maintain their legal status. [/UL] Make sure to review the most recent information and requirements from the Taiwan National Immigration Agency or the agency responsible for the Gold Card program, as policies and regulations can change. Application processes can also vary slightly depending on your home country and other factors, so it's important to follow the guidance provided by the Taiwanese authorities.