When I received my job offer to work in Taiwan, I thought the hardest part was over. But what followed was a maze of paperwork, tight timelines, and confusing checklists. The truth is, getting a Taiwan work permit isn’t difficult—but it is detail-oriented. If you want to avoid delays, understanding the full process ahead of time can save you from headaches later on.
Here’s what I’ve learned—plus a complete breakdown of how long each step really takes.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Taiwan Work Permit?
- Online Application (EZ Work Permit system): 7 working days
- In-Person (Paper) Application: Up to 12 working days
- Visa Stamping via TECO:
- Standard: 6 working days
- Expedited: 3 working days
- Alien Resident Certificate (ARC): Must apply within 15 days of arrival
Total time from job offer to full legal work authorization: Around 3–6 weeks
Work Permit vs. Work Visa: What’s the Difference?
Many first-time applicants confuse the work permit and work visa, but they serve different purposes—and you’ll need both to work legally in Taiwan.
| Document | Purpose | Issued By | When You Need It |
| Work Permit | Legal authorization to work in Taiwan | Ministry of Labor (Taiwan) | Before applying for a visa or entering Taiwan |
| Work Visa | Entry document allowing you to travel and work in Taiwan | TECO (Taipei Economic & Cultural Office) | After work permit is approved |
Quick Tip:
Think of the work permit as your employer’s proof that you’re allowed to work in Taiwan, and the work visa as your entry pass to actually go and start working there.
Once both are secured, you can travel to Taiwan and apply for your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), which allows you to stay and work long-term.
Step-by-Step Timeline: Taiwan Work Permit to ARC
Let’s break down the typical timeline for getting your work permit and other documents sorted:
| Step | Details | Duration |
| 1. Job Offer & Document Prep | Sign your employment contract. Prepare your diploma, health certificate, and proof of experience. | ~1 week (varies) |
| 2. Work Permit Application | Submit online via EZ Work Permit or in person. | 7–12 working days |
| 3. Visa Application (at TECO) | Apply for your visa at your nearest TECO office. Choose standard or expedited. | 3–6 working days |
| 4. Travel to Taiwan | Book your flight and arrive in Taiwan. | Flexible |
| 5. Apply for ARC | Must be completed within 15 days of arrival. Visit a National Immigration Agency branch. | 1 day (processing varies) |
Quick Application Checklist
Make sure you have everything before submitting:
[ ] Signed job contract
[ ] Certified diploma and/or work experience docs
[ ] Health certificate from an accredited hospital (issued within 3 months)
[ ] Criminal background check (if required)
[ ] Completed work permit application (online preferred)
[ ] Visa application form + payment
[ ] ARC application within 15 days of arrival
What to Watch Out For
Missing Translations or Legalization
Documents not in English or Chinese must be translated and authenticated by a Taiwanese mission. Always use certified services.
Salary Too Low
Check with Taiwan’s Workforce Development Agency for the current salary threshold based on your job category. Falling below this benchmark is a common reason for rejection.
Using an Unlicensed Agency
If you’re applying from the Philippines, double-check your recruiter’s accreditation via the DMW website. Unlicensed agents can delay or derail your entire application.
Procrastinating the Process
Last-minute submissions are risky. Aim to begin the work permit and visa process at least two months before your intended start date.
Tips to Speed Up the Process
- Apply online via the EZ Work Permit portal—it’s faster than submitting paper documents.
- Double-check all your documents for missing info or incorrect formatting.
- Stay in touch with your employer—they often coordinate with Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor.
- Monitor public holidays in both Taiwan and the Philippines, as these may affect government office schedules.
- Follow up! Use tracking systems and email confirmations to stay on top of progress.
Summary: Taiwan Work Permit Timelines
| Process Step | Mode | Duration |
| Work Permit Application | Online | 7 working days |
| Work Permit Application | In Person | 12 working days |
| Visa at TECO | Standard | 6 working days |
| Visa at TECO | Expedited | 3 working days |
| ARC Application | NIA Office | Within 15 days |
| Full Process (Job to ARC) | — | 3 to 6 weeks total |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How long does it take to get a Taiwan work permit?
If submitted online via the EZ Work Permit system, it takes 7 working days. Paper applications take up to 12 working days. - Can I speed up the visa process?
Yes. The TECO office offers an expedited visa service that takes only 3 working days. Standard processing takes 6 working days. - When should I start the process?
Start at least 2 months before your target start date to allow time for document prep, permit processing, visa stamping, and travel. - What if I miss the 15-day ARC application window?
Failing to apply for an ARC within 15 days of arrival may result in penalties or legal issues. Visit the National Immigration Agency right away.
Final Thoughts
Getting your Taiwan work permit is like a relay race: each step passes the baton to the next. The key to winning? Preparation, communication, and consistency. Whether you’re headed for a factory job, an ESL teaching role, or a caregiving position, smooth processing starts with knowing the rules and working with the right people.
If you’re just getting started, don’t panic. Just plan ahead—and keep this guide within reach.