Just like other types of workers, live-in caregivers or caretakers in Taiwan are entitled to certain rights and benefits. Aside from a monthly salary, they are also provided health insurance and overtime pay. Depending on their contract, they may also receive additional benefits, such as accommodation and food allowances.
In this article, we will discuss the rights and benefits of caregivers or caretakers in Taiwan. In particular, we will focus on those who are “live-in” or hired by families to care for their loved ones.
What are My Rights and Benefits as a Live-In Caregiver?
Other than monetary compensation (i.e. salary, overtime pay), here are some of the rights and benefits that live-in caregivers or caretakers in Taiwan are entitled to have:
Clear Job Description
In accordance with the Employment Service Act (ESA), live-in caregivers can only perform the job that is indicated in their work permit. They are not allowed to perform other jobs, such as being a kitchen helper in the employer’s restaurant, or being a sales assistant in a shop during their free time. Neither are they allowed to care for another person in another house.
If a caregiver is found to be engaging in a job that is not approved by the Ministry of Labor (MOL), he/she could be deported, while the employer would face fines or penalties.
Right to Take a Leave
Similar to other types of workers, caregivers or caretakers have the right to rest days and leave days. Specifically, they should have:
- At least one “day off” every seven days (the schedule should be discussed with the employer);
- The freedom to go out and buy basic necessities, to see a doctor when necessary, or to attend to personal matters; and
- The freedom to take a temporary leave in case of emergencies (to be discussed with the employer).
Of course, before they go out or take a leave, the caregiver should remember to:
- Inform the employer where they will go and when they will return;
- Ensure the safety of their patient or care recipient; and
- Carry an ID and emergency contact information at all times.
Health Insurance
Membership to the National Health Insurance (NHI) system is mandatory for all workers in the country. This applies to foreign caregivers or caretakers, as well.
Labor Insurance
While labor insurance is mandatory for most foreign workers, it is voluntary for family-based workers such as caregivers. Both the employer and caregiver should discuss and agree on whether or not they should have labor insurance, which provides benefits in cases of accidents leading to injury, illness, disability, or death.
If it is agreed that the live-in caregiver will be enrolled on labor insurance, the premium to be paid would be as follows: 70% by the employer, 20% by the worker, and 10% by the government.
Occupational Accident Insurance
This type of insurance is different from labor insurance, since it applies to illness or injuries caused by occupational accidents. In other words, it covers accidents that happen while the caregiver is looking after a care recipient. In such cases, workers are entitled to:
- Injury or Illness Benefits. These are supplementary payments provided when the caregiver is unable to work and earn a salary because of an occupational accident.
- Medical Benefits. These cover the various medical costs of a caregiver who requires treatment and medication due to an injury or illness caused by an occupational accident.
Occupational accident insurance is mandatory for all workers, including live-in caregivers. The premium is paid in full by the employer; it cannot be deducted from the caregiver’s salary.
As you can see, even family-based caregivers or caretakers are entitled to the same rights and benefits as other types of workers. Thanks to these benefits, they can expect to receive support during the times when they need it the most.
Interestingly, you might have noticed that we used the terms caregivers and caretakers interchangeably. However, there are some differences between them. Visit this article to read about the differences between caregivers, caretakers, and nursing aides.