Taiwan
Coastal BeachesTaiwan is an island nation located in East Asia, approximately 100 miles off the southeastern coast of mainland China. It is a densely populated, highly developed country with a vibrant blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern influences. The economy is one of Asia's most advanced, with a strong technology sector, semiconductor manufacturing, and a thriving service industry. Taiwan offers a high quality of life with excellent healthcare, efficient public transportation, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, particularly in the capital Taipei. The society is known for its friendliness toward foreigners, excellent food culture, and a mix of traditional temples alongside contemporary urban development. Life in Taiwan combines the convenience of a modern developed nation with rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
SJB GlobalConnect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Podcasts
Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat
Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns
Living in Taiwan
Visa & Residency
Obtaining a residency in Taiwan involves several steps and can vary depending on the type of visa applied for. The most common residency visas for expats are the Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and the Employment Gold Card. The ARC is typically tied to employment, family reunification, or study. To apply for an ARC based on employment, an expat must first secure a job in Taiwan. The employer then applies for a work permit on behalf of the expat. Once the work permit is granted, the expat can apply for the ARC at the local office of the National Agency (NIA) by providing the necessary documents, including the work permit, a health check report, and proof of residence. The process is bureaucratic and may require assistance from the employer or a legal professional, but it is generally straightforward for those who meet the criteria. The Employment Gold Card is a special visa introduced to attract high-level professional talent in various fields such as science, technology, education, and the arts. It serves as a work permit, residence visa, and ARC. Applicants can apply online through the Taiwan Employment Gold Card Portal by submitting the required documents, which include proof of expertise, such as advanced degrees, professional certifications, or significant work achievements. The Gold Card is valid for one to three years and can be renewed. It offers greater flexibility as it is not tied to a specific employer, making it popular among digital nomads and expats who wish to work independently or have multiple sources of income. For digital nomads, the Employment Gold Card is particularly attractive because it allows them to live and work in Taiwan for an extended period without being tied to a local employer. The application process is competitive, and the criteria for qualification are high, but for those who qualify, it provides a convenient way to reside in Taiwan. Overall, while the process of obtaining residency in Taiwan can be average in terms of difficulty, it is manageable with the proper preparation and documentation. The Taiwanese government has made efforts to streamline the process, especially for skilled professionals, to encourage foreign talent to live and work in Taiwan.
Healthcare in Taiwan
Taiwan is known for its efficient and high-quality system, which is a blend of public and private services. The National health insurance (NHI) program, a mandatory social insurance plan, ensures that all residents have access to affordable healthcare. The NHI covers a wide range of services, including outpatient visits, hospitalization, traditional Chinese medicine, dental care, and prescription drugs. Private healthcare exists alongside the public system, offering more personalized service and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare in Taiwan is generally high, with well-trained medical staff and modern facilities. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they have an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and are enrolled in the NHI system. Enrollment is typically mandatory for residents, including expats working or studying in Taiwan.
Cost of Living
Taiwan has a moderate cost of living compared to other developed Asian economies. Housing costs vary significantly by location, with Taipei being the most expensive city where rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from $600-1,000 USD monthly, while outside central areas it drops to $400-700 USD. Daily expenses including food, transportation, and utilities are relatively affordable, with local meals costing $3-8 USD and public transportation being inexpensive and efficient. Overall, Taiwan is more affordable than Japan or Singapore but more expensive than Southeast Asian countries.
Weather
Taiwan experiences a subtropical to tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers (May-September) are hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and the typhoon season typically runs from July to September bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Winters (December-February) are mild in most areas, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), though northern regions can be cooler and wetter. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.
Educational System in Taiwan
Taiwan's educational system is highly regarded and is known for its rigorous academic standards. Education in Taiwan is compulsory from the ages of 6 to 16, which includes six years of primary education and three years of junior high school. The school year in Taiwan typically starts in September and ends in June, with a summer break in between. Primary education, known as elementary school, starts at age 6 and goes up to grade 6. This is followed by junior high school, which is grades 7 to 9. After completing compulsory education, students can choose to attend senior high school, which is grades 10 to 12, or vocational school. Senior high school prepares students for higher education and entrance into universities, while vocational schools focus on practical skills and job training. The Taiwanese education system is known for its strong emphasis on mathematics, science, and technology, as well as for its competitive entrance examinations for high school and university admissions. The quality of education is generally high, with a strong focus on discipline and respect for teachers. For families moving to Taiwan, it is important to note that the education system can be quite demanding, with students often participating in after-school tutoring or cram schools to prepare for exams.
