In a previous post, we talked about the qualifications that are typically needed for “blue collar” or skilled, manual jobs in Taiwan. This time around, we’ll be discussing the application process for “white collar” jobs, or those that involve professional, administrative, or managerial positions.
How does a Filipino job seeker qualify for a white collar work visa in Taiwan? What are the typical requirements and steps involved? These are the questions that we will tackle in this guide article.
Guide to Applying for a White Collar Job in Taiwan
Although blue collar jobs are much-needed in Taiwan, particularly in the manufacturing and construction industries, there is also a growing demand for white collar jobs, especially in the fields of health, education, research, and the performing arts.
Similar to blue collar workers, it is the employer who applies for a work permit in behalf of white collar workers. In coordination with the employer and the recruitment agency, the job seeker then applies for a work visa, and eventually a resident visa once he/she arrives in Taiwan. Usually, the resident visa is valid for three (3) years, and may be extended or renewed when the contract ends.
Qualifications
First and foremost, you need to have a valid job offer from a sponsoring company in Taiwan, secured through a legitimate or accredited recruitment agency in the Philippines.
Secondly, you need to meet at least one of the following general criteria:
- A master’s degree;
- A bachelor’s degree and at least two (2) years of work experience;
- More than five (5) years of work experience in the field, with demonstrated outstanding performance;
- Worked for more than one (1) year at a multinational company that is sponsoring your move to Taiwan; OR
- A job contract that includes a salary of TWD 47,971 per month.
Furthermore, you may need to provide additional documents based on your field or profession. There are specific criteria for the following types of work: technical work; supervisory work; language teaching (cram schools); formal teaching (elementary schools, high schools, colleges, universities, vocational schools); sports (coaches, athletes); contract personnel; and the performing arts.
Requirements
Based on the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) official website, here are the visa requirements for white collar workers seeking employment in Taiwan:
- Filled up Visa Application Form. This form must be filled up online at visaweb.boca.gov.tw, printed out, and signed by the applicant.
- Passport. The passport must be valid for at least six (6) months.
- Two (2) colored passport-sized Photos. The photo should be on white background and taken within the past three (3) months.
- Birth Certificate. This document should be issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
- Marriage Certificate. This applies to female documents who are married; the document should be issued by the PSA.
- Work Permit. The employer shall apply for this on behalf of the applicant. It is issued by the Taiwan Ministry of Labor (MOL) or other relevant authorities.
- NBI Clearance. This document should indicate that the applicant has no criminal record.
- Medical Examination Clearance. This applies to applicants who will be staying in Taiwan for more than six (6) months. It is given after taking a medical test at an accredited hospital or clinic.
NOTE: The above documents must include the original and one (1) photocopy each. Furthermore, additional documents may be needed depending on the applicant’s profession (e.g. college transcript of records, professional license ID, etc.).
Procedure
Meanwhile, here is a brief description of the steps involved in getting a white collar worker visa in Taiwan:
Finding a Job
In the Philippines, there are several recruitment agencies that announce available job vacancies in Taiwan. Just make sure that you get in touch with legitimate agencies, because there are many scammers out there! In addition, make sure that the job opening is confirmed and featured on the official website of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
Initially, you’ll be submitting your resume and application letter to the recruitment agency, who will coordinate with the employer in Taiwan. The process will involve an initial interview and possibly a written exam, before you reach the final interview. Once you get accepted, be sure to review the job contract before signing. Do not hesitate to ask questions and make clarifications!
Applying for a Work Permit
As mentioned earlier, it is the employer in Taiwan who will apply for a work permit on your behalf. Depending on the industry, they may need to acquire your work permit from these authorities:
- Ministry of Labor, Workforce Development Agency. This is the authority that issues work permits to general foreign professionals. For more details, employers can go to the agency’s Foreign Professional Work Permit Application official website.
- Ministry of Education. This is the authority that issues work permits to foreign teachers. Employers are urged to visit the Ministry of Education Online Application System for more information.
Applying for a Residence Visa
This is an essential part of getting a white collar job in Taiwan. At this stage, you will need to apply online at visaweb.boca.gov.tw by filling up the Application Form. For the duration of your stay, choose “above 180 days,” and for the purpose of travel, select “employment.” After completing the form, print it out, sign in, and submit together with other necessary documents to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Manila.
Moving to Taiwan
Once you have your visa, you’re now ready to go to Taiwan! But before you depart from the Philippines, you need to fill up the Online Arrival Card through this website. Be ready with your flight number, date of arrival, and other details. Under visa type, choose “resident,” and enter your visa number at the “entry permit/visa number” field.
Important Reminders
Upon arriving in Taiwan, take note that you must apply for an Alien Residence Certificate (ARC) within 30 days. You can do this at the National Immigration Agency Service Center.
During the course of your employment contract, be sure to follow the rules. You can only work for the employer that is indicated in your work permit. If you change jobs, your new employer must acquire another work permit on your behalf.
Extending Your Stay
Work permits in Taiwan are usually valid for up to three (3) years. If your employer wants you to stay and work after this period, they need to apply for a new work permit. Once you receive your new work permit, you need to renew your ARC to extend your stay.
Keep these guidelines in mind if you are planning to apply for a white collar job in Taiwan. Once again, make sure that you are working with a legitimate recruitment agency, to avoid getting scammed!
Aside from the work permit and work visa, the police certificate is another important document you might need to have. Check out this article about applying for a Taiwan Police Clearance Certificate.