When I first looked into working in Taiwan, I was excited by the possibilities—but I quickly realized not every job was open to OFWs like me. Knowing what’s not allowed can save you from wasted effort and possible legal trouble.
If you’re planning to work here, it’s important to understand the jobs that are off-limits to foreign workers like us.
Prohibited Jobs for OFWs in Taiwan
Here are the main job categories that OFWs are not allowed to take on:
- Government Positions – You can’t work in government offices or hold public sector jobs. These roles are strictly for Taiwanese citizens.
- Legal and Financial Services – Professions like lawyers, accountants, and tax consultants are restricted. These require licenses or citizenship that foreign workers can’t obtain.
- Real Estate and Immigration Services – Working in real estate brokerage or immigration advisory is off-limits for OFWs due to licensing rules and local protection policies.
- Specialized Healthcare Roles – Caregiver jobs are available, but specialized positions—like licensed doctors or psychologists—often require local credentials or board certifications.
- Teaching in Public Schools – You might get a job in a cram school (buxiban), but public school teaching roles have language and licensure barriers that exclude OFWs.
- High-Security Jobs – Roles in national security, defense, law enforcement, and the military are restricted to Taiwanese nationals for security reasons.
Why Are These Jobs Restricted?
The government has several reasons for limiting certain jobs to locals:
- To Protect Local Employment – Taiwanese citizens are given hiring priority in sensitive or high-value sectors.
- Licensing Requirements – Some roles require certification only accessible to citizens or permanent residents.
- National Security – Sensitive sectors like defense and law enforcement must remain under local control.
- Labor Market Balance – Taiwan regulates migrant labor to prevent wage suppression and labor exploitation.
- Language and Cultural Fit – Roles involving public service or education often require fluent Mandarin and cultural alignment.
How Taiwan’s Rules Compare to Other Countries
Every country has its own rules on hiring foreign workers. Here’s how Taiwan stacks up:
| Country | Common OFW Sectors | Job Restrictions |
| Taiwan | Caregiving, Factory, Farming, Domestic Work | No public school, legal, finance, or gov’t jobs |
| Japan | Caregiving, Food Service, Factory | Language and certification limits for professionals |
| UAE/KSA | Construction, Household Service | Varies by sponsor; certain industries closed |
| Germany/UK | Nursing, Tech, Engineering | Limited low-skilled permits; strict licensing |
Taiwan’s model focuses on balancing local employment with needed foreign labor in specific sectors.
What OFWs Are Doing Instead
While some jobs are off the table, many OFWs build fulfilling careers in these fields:
- Caregiving and Healthcare Support – Especially in elder care and private homes.
- Manufacturing and Factory Work – High demand for electronics, textiles, and machinery.
- Agricultural Work – Seasonal jobs in farming and fishing.
- Private Tutoring & Language Centers – Especially for those with good English skills.
- Service Jobs – In hospitality, cleaning services, and food-related work.
Many also upgrade their skills through TESDA-recognized short courses, which can improve job prospects or help transition to a different sector.
What OFWs Should Do Moving Forward
Here’s how you can stay safe and strategic:
- Verify Eligibility – Always check Taiwan’s Workforce Development Agency for updated job classifications.
- Take Short Courses – Certifications in caregiving, language, or digital skills can expand your options.
- Review Job Contracts – Make sure your offer clearly states your role and responsibilities.
- Know the Law – Understand the terms of your visa and employment contract to avoid violations.
If you’re unsure where you stand, MECO and MWO in Taiwan can help clarify your legal rights and job eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can OFWs work in banks or financial institutions in Taiwan?
No. Jobs in finance, including advisory or investment roles, are generally restricted to citizens or permanent residents. - Is freelance or online work allowed for OFWs in Taiwan?
While Taiwan doesn’t monitor online side gigs strictly, your employment contract may prohibit outside work. Always check your visa restrictions first. - Can Filipino teachers apply for public school jobs in Taiwan?
Not usually. Public school roles require a teaching license from Taiwan’s Ministry of Education and proficiency in Mandarin. - Are there exceptions for highly skilled professionals?
Yes. Foreign professionals may work in areas like arts, science, education, business management, or sports under special visa categories—such as the Employment Gold Card or Professional Work Permits. These roles fall under Taiwan’s foreign professionals framework and are different from the standard OFW deployment system managed by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). To qualify, you usually need advanced credentials, documented experience, and direct application through Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency or Workforce Development Agency.
Conclusion
Working in Taiwan has opened doors for many of us—but it also comes with responsibilities. Understanding the prohibited jobs for OFWs in Taiwan is more than just legal compliance—it’s about protecting your future and your dignity as a worker abroad.
Stick to legitimate channels, clarify your job category, and upskill wherever possible. If you ever feel uncertain, MECO and MWO are there to help.
Because being informed isn’t just smart—it’s your best protection.