Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa
Taiwan's Employment Gold Card is a 1-3 year open work and residence permit for professionals, popular with remote workers because it needs no employer sponsorship and lets you work for anyone, including foreign clients.
Not a classic nomad visa but a talent permit that remote workers lean on. You qualify either on a recent salary of NT$160,000/month (about $5,000, on specific fields) or as a 'special talent' in one of around a dozen fields with no salary test. It bundles a visa, open work permit, residence card and re-entry permit, and high earners get a five-year tax break on salary over NT$3 million. [Source: Taiwan Employment Gold Card Office ↗]
Updated: A 'Digital' field was recently added to the qualifying categories; the salary route (NT$160,000/month) and the 5-year tax incentive are unchanged.
Key requirements
- Qualify on the salary route (NT$160,000/month, field-specific) or as a special talent with no salary test
- It's an open work permit, so no employer or job offer is needed
- Work remotely, locally, freelance or run a business, in any combination
- Not for mainland Chinese citizens; you choose 1-3 years up front, renewable
Before you apply
Health insurance isn't strictly required for Taiwan, but a nomad policy covers you while you're abroad.
Compare nomad insurance →Taiwan nomad visa FAQ
How much income do you need for the Taiwan digital nomad visa?
You need about NT$160,000/month (~$5,000) on the salary route, or qualify as special talent, shown from income earned outside Taiwan.
Who can apply for the Taiwan nomad visa?
Most nationalities (mainland Chinese citizens excluded; Hong Kong/Macau via a separate track). It's for people working remotely (employed, freelance, business) for clients or employers outside Taiwan. Family can be included (Spouse and children under 20 can join; spouses get open work rights).
How long is the Taiwan nomad visa valid?
It's granted for 36 months, and is not renewable in place. Processing typically takes ~30–60 days.
Do you pay tax in Taiwan as a digital nomad?
Staying 183+ days makes you a Taiwan tax resident; high-earning foreign professionals get a 5-year break excluding 50% of salary above NT$3 million.
Do you need health insurance for the Taiwan nomad visa?
It isn't strictly required, but health insurance is strongly recommended while you're abroad.
Compare other countries
Visa rules and income thresholds change and can vary by consulate. Confirm the current requirements with Taiwan Employment Gold Card Office before applying. This page is general information, not legal advice.