You’ve landed a job in Taiwan—congrats! But before you board that flight, there’s one legal checkpoint you can’t skip: the Taiwan work visa.
Knowing how to get a work visa for Taiwan from the Philippines will prove to be a lifeline for new or aspiring OFWs. Whether you’re going through an agency or under a government-to-government program, every Filipino worker must go through a structured process to live and work in Taiwan legally.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Taiwan Work Visa from the Philippines
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer Through a Licensed Agency or Program
You can’t apply for a work visa without a valid job offer from a Taiwan-based employer. Most Filipinos are hired through:
- DMW-accredited recruitment agencies
- The Special Hiring Program for Taiwan (SHPT) via DMW and MECO
Once hired, your Taiwan employer will apply for a Work Permit on your behalf through the Workforce Development Agency (WDA).
Pro tip: Double-check your recruiter’s status at dmw.gov.ph to avoid illegal recruitment.
Step 2: Wait for Work Permit Approval from Taiwan
Your employer’s application timeline:
- 7 working days (if submitted online)
- 12 working days (if submitted in person)
Note: Once approved, you’ll receive a copy of the Work Permit issued by Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor. This document is essential to begin your visa application.
Step 3: Complete DMW Processing in the Philippines
Your agency or the DMW will guide you through:
- Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS)
- Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)
- Medical examination from a DOH-accredited clinic
- Uploading documents to the DMW Mobile App for OFW Pass generation
Step 4: Apply for Your Taiwan Work Visa at TECO
Once your permit is in hand, apply for a visa at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Manila.
Submit the following:
| Document | Details |
| Valid Passport | At least 9 months validity |
| Taiwan Work Permit | Issued by Ministry of Labor via employer |
| Completed Visa Application Form | From TECO website |
| Medical Clearance | From DOH-accredited clinic |
| Authenticated Employment Contract (MECO) | Employer-verified and signed |
| NBI Clearance | Recent, valid for international employment |
| Passport Photos | White background, recent |
| National ID / UMID | Required for documentation validation |
| TESDA/Training Certificates (if required) | For caregivers or skilled workers |
| Visa Fee Receipt | Paid at TECO |
| Affidavit for Foreign Workers | Signed declaration acknowledging Taiwan’s labor laws |
Visa Fee: ~₱3,500 (non-refundable)
Processing Time: 6 working days (standard) or 3 working days (expedited)
Step 5: Travel to Taiwan and Apply for ARC
After your visa is issued, you’re ready to fly. Upon arrival in Taiwan:
- Present your visa, passport, and contract to immigration
- Within 15 days, apply for your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)
The ARC is your legal ID in Taiwan and allows you to:
- Stay long-term
- Work legally
- Access government services
Pro Tip: The ARC is usually valid for 1–3 years and must be renewed before it expires.
What’s the Typical Timeline?
| Step | Estimated Duration |
| Employer’s Work Permit Application | 7–12 working days |
| Visa Processing at TECO | 3–6 working days |
| ARC Application in Taiwan | Within 15 days of arrival |
From job offer to visa stamping, expect 3–6 weeks total processing time.
What Happens After You Get the ARC?
- Report Any Changes – If you change employers or residence, notify immigration within 30 days.
- Apply for a Re-Entry Permit – If you plan to leave and return, get this linked to your ARC.
- Renew Your ARC Before Expiry – Avoid overstaying by applying early.
- Apply for Permanent Residency (Optional) – After 5 consecutive years with 183+ days/year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for a Taiwan work visa without an agency?
Only under special government programs. Most OFWs must go through a DMW-accredited agency. - What if I lose my ARC or need to update my info?
Report to the local National Immigration Agency (NIA) office in Taiwan. You’ll need your passport and supporting documents. - How long is the work visa valid?
The initial work visa is single-entry, used only to enter Taiwan. Your ARC determines your legal stay and must be renewed periodically. - Is the visa fee refundable if I cancel my job?
No. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the contract is terminated before deployment.
Video: Taipei & Taiwan Visa Guide | Work Permit & Residency
Filipinos seeking employment in Taiwan must secure a Work Permit before legally working. This permit is obtained by the employer through the Workforce Development Agency and is essential for jobs in manufacturing, caregiving, and skilled professions.
Once granted a Work Permit, workers must apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), which serves as their residence permit. The ARC is issued by the National Immigration Agency and allows workers to stay beyond 90 days. Watch this video to learn more about how you can begin your process of acquiring your work visa in Taiwan, through the help of your employer and relevant agencies in the country.
Conclusion
Getting a Taiwan work visa is more than just paperwork—it’s your legal foundation for working abroad. By following the correct steps, preparing your documents thoroughly, and working only with licensed recruiters, you safeguard your journey.
If you’re still wondering how to get a work visa for Taiwan from the Philippines, this guide has your back—from job offer to ARC.