Getting a job in Taiwan as an OFW is exciting—but before you pack your bags, there’s one document that can make or break your entire experience: your employment contract.
I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that not all contracts are made equal. Some protect you. Others put you at risk. If you’re applying through an agency or direct hire, understanding the Taiwan job contract requirements for OFWs is your first real defense abroad.
Let’s break down what a compliant and fair contract should look like.
What Is a Taiwan OFW Employment Contract?
A Taiwan employment contract for OFWs is a written agreement between the foreign employer (or Taiwanese principal) and the worker, detailing:
- Job role and duties
- Salary and benefits
- Contract duration
- Work hours and rest days
- Termination clauses
In short, this paper tells you what you’re getting into—and what your rights are once you land in Taiwan.
MECO_Employment ContractWho Regulates These Contracts?
Several agencies oversee the legality and safety of job contracts for Filipinos bound for Taiwan:
- Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) – Ensures contracts meet Philippine standards.
- Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor (MOL) – Enforces Taiwan labor laws.
- MWO-Taiwan (Migrant Workers Office) – Reviews, verifies, and resolves contract-related issues.
Your contract must be verified by the DMW before your deployment.
Taiwan Job Contract Requirements for OFWs
Here’s what should be included—non-negotiable:
- Basic Information
- Name, nationality, passport number of the worker
- Employer’s name and business registration number
- Duration of contract (usually 1–3 years)
- Work Details
- Job title (e.g., factory worker, caregiver)
- Job location and nature of work
- Daily working hours (max of 8 hours, OT must be paid)
- Weekly day off
- Salary and Benefits
- Monthly salary (as of 2025, NTD 27,470 minimum wage for domestic workers, NTD 28,590 for others)
- Overtime pay (133% of regular rate)
- Free board and lodging (common for domestic workers)
- Health and labor insurance (shared by employer and worker)
Note: All amounts must be clearly written in New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) and not vague estimates.
- Deductions
Employers are allowed to deduct:
- Food and lodging (up to NTD 2,500/month, if not fully provided)
- Income tax (based on Taiwan’s rules—usually around 5%)
- Labor insurance premiums
Illegal deductions (like placement fees or excessive utility costs) should be flagged and reported.
- Leave Entitlements
- Sick leave, annual leave, and national holidays (varies by job type)
- Emergency repatriation clauses
- Return ticket clause (typically the employer covers this after contract ends)
How to Verify If a Taiwan Job Contract Is Legit
Before signing:
- Ask for a copy of the contract in English and Filipino
- Check if it’s pre-approved by the DMW and MECO
- Make sure the agency is licensed by the DMW
- Review for handwritten edits or vague clauses
- Don’t sign anything under pressure
If in doubt, bring the contract to your nearest DMW Regional Office for review.
What If the Employer Violates the Contract?
You can:
- Report to POLO-Taiwan or your broker agency in Taiwan
- File a complaint via the DMW 1348 hotline or their online helpdesk
- Seek assistance from Filipino worker support groups in Taiwan
You’re not alone. Many OFWs have successfully renegotiated terms or received compensation with the right help.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Verified Contract for Taiwan
Step 1: Apply through a licensed agency or direct hire (with DMW clearance).
Step 2: Employer issues a draft contract.
Step 3: Submit the contract to the DMW for verification.
Step 4: Once verified, it’s used to process your OFW Pass and other deployment documents.
Step 5: Bring a hard copy when you depart—it will be checked at the airport.
Quick Tips for First-Time OFWs
- Never accept verbal agreements—everything must be on paper.
- Compare your original contract to the translated version.
- If your employer insists on changes after you arrive, get POLO involved.
- Save multiple copies—digital and printed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I back out if I already signed but haven’t flown yet?
A: Yes. You must inform your agency and file a formal withdrawal with DMW.
Q: Is the salary always fixed?
A: No. It should meet or exceed Taiwan’s minimum wage, but higher offers are possible based on skill level.
Q: Can my employer change the job duties later?
A: No. Major changes must go through formal contract revisions, verified by POLO.
Q: Do I still need this if I was hired direct?
A: Yes. Even direct hires need a DMW-verified contract before departure.
Final Thoughts
Don’t treat your employment contract as just paperwork—it’s your legal shield abroad. Understanding the Taiwan job contract requirements for OFWs is key to protecting your income, your dignity, and your future.
Before flying out, read every line. Ask questions. Get it verified. If there’s anything unclear, don’t hesitate to seek help from the MECO or MWO near you. And always remember: a signed contract is not just a promise—it’s a lifeline.