Exploring Taiwan: A Guide for Overseas Filipino Workers

Exploring Taiwan: A Guide for Overseas Filipino Workers

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Hey there! Looking for a job in Taiwan? You’re in the right place! 

In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about finding work in Taiwan. 

From job opportunities to work permits, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on your Taiwan job adventure!

List of Accredited Manpower Agency in Taiwan

  • 10TH STORY PLACEMENT AGENCY, INC.
  • 2000 MILES PLACEMENT AGENCY, INC. (FOR:GEOSONS PLCT AGENCY, INC)
  • ALIZABETH RECRUITMENT INCORPORATED
  • ALPHA MANPOWERLINK AGENCY CO
  • ALPHA TOMO (P) INTL MANPOWER SERVICES INC FORMERLY R.A. TOMO INTERNATIONAL
  • ANKOR MANAGEMENT SERVICES AND CONSULTANTS INC (FOR AL-KHATRI INTERNATIONAL
  • ARANDREA MANPOWER SERVICES CO
  • BRIGHT STAR PLACEMENT CORP.
  • CITY EMPLOYMENT CENTER INC
  • EPHESIANS OVERSEAS MANPOWER SUPPLY INC
  • EVERBEST OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT AGENCY INC (FORMERLY EVERBEST MANPOWER SVCS)
  • EXPEDITE MOVERS MANPOWER SERVICES
  • EYEQUEST INTERNATIONAL MANPOWER SERVICES INCORPORATED
  • FAASI INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
  • FIL-HR MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT & SERVICES SPECIALIST CORP.

Is it Good to work in Taiwan?

Working in Taiwan can be a great experience, but whether it’s good for you depends on your individual preferences and circumstances.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Economic Stability: It has a stable and growing economy, which can provide job security for many professionals.
  • Job Opportunities: The job market is diverse, especially in technology, manufacturing, and education sectors. If you have skills in these areas, you might find plenty of opportunities.
  • Quality of Life: It offers a high quality of life with a modern infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems. The cost of living is reasonable in many areas.
  • Cultural Experience: It has a rich cultural heritage and offers a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. This can be a rewarding cultural experience for expatriates.
  • Language Barrier: While many people speak English, especially in urban areas, the primary language is Mandarin Chinese. Depending on your language skills, this could impact your work and daily life.
  • Work Culture: Taiwanese work culture can be demanding, with long hours and a strong emphasis on dedication to the job. This may vary by industry and company.
  • Visa and Legal Requirements: Make sure to research and understand the visa and legal requirements for working, as they can be complex.
  • Personal Preferences: Consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and cultural compatibility when deciding if Taiwan is a good fit for you.

In summary, it can be a good place to work for those who appreciate its stable economy, job opportunities, and cultural richness.

However, it’s essential to do thorough research and assess your own priorities and circumstances to determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Benefits, Privileges in Working in Taiwan

Working in Taiwan comes with several benefits and privileges for both local and foreign employees. Here are some of the key advantages:

  1. Higher salary and benefits:
    • In Taiwan, you can get paid more and have better benefits than in your home country.
    • Right now, people who are just starting out make about $1,400 USD (PHP 79,772) per month.
    • In the Philippines, people who make low wages only earn about $500 USD per month.
    • The government in the Philippines says that about 40% of people there are poor and make less than $2,000 USD per year.
  2. The visa application process is faster and easier:
    • It’s easy and quick to apply for a Taiwan visa if you’re from the Philippines.
    • You don’t need to go to a Taiwanese office or make an appointment. You can apply online and get your visa approval letter right away.
    • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will review your application using your passport number.
    • They will send you an email to let you know if your application is accepted or denied. If it’s approved, they will also send you an electronic copy of your approval letter.
    • This is helpful for travelers who want to stay longer than 15 days and don’t have Wi-Fi or internet access at airports.
  3. Safe Environment:
    • Filipino workers, including those working for the government, are protected by laws.
    • The Labor Standards Act guarantees fair pay, rest days, and overtime pay for OFWs. It also protects them from harassment and abuse. The Employment Insurance Act and the Employment Service Act help Filipinos find jobs.
    • Taiwan is a very safe country with low crime rates. According to CIA statistics, it ranks 111th in the world.
    • Although violent crime can occur, it is rare. People often say that it is more likely to get struck by lightning than to be mugged.
  4. Language Development:
    • If you’re interested in learning Mandarin Chinese, working provides an immersive environment to improve your language skills.
  5. Resident Visa Privileges: 
    • Foreign workers can obtain resident visas, allowing them to reside in Taiwan legally. These visas may be extended or converted into permanent residency in some cases.
  6. Travel Opportunities: 
    • Taiwan’s central location in East Asia makes it a great base for exploring neighboring countries like Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asian nations.
  7. High-Quality Healthcare: 
    • Taiwan boasts an excellent healthcare system, and as a worker, you can access this quality care. Many employers offer health insurance, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses.
  8. Paid Time Off
    • The amount of paid leave you get is based on how long you’ve worked for your employer, as stated in your employment contract.
    • Annual leave is accrued as follows:
      • 6 months to less than 1 year of employment: 3 days’ paid leave
      • 1 year of employment: 7 days’ paid leave
      • 2 years of employment: 10 days’ paid leave
      • 3 years of employment: 14 days’ paid leave
      • 5 years of employment: 15 days’ paid leave
      • One additional day is provided for each year of service following the completion of 10 years (to a maximum of 30 days)
  9. Other Common Benefits:
    • Travel Insurance
    • Housing allowances
    • Festival bonuses (holiday bonuses)
    • Meal allowances
    • Housing allowances to expatriates and some senior-level executives
    • Medical benefits are typically extended to employees’ spouses and dependent children

Cost of Living in Taiwan

The cost of living in Taiwan is relatively lower than in the United States. 

According to Numbeo, a family of four can expect to spend around $2,813.8 per month without rent, while a single person can expect to spend around $770.6 per month without rent. 

The cost of living in Taiwan is, on average, 31.9% lower than in the United States. Rent in Taiwan is, on average, 70.0% lower than in the United States.

RESTAURANTSPHP
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant₱ 213.42
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course₱ 1,778.49
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)₱ 266.77
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)₱ 106.71
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)₱ 142.28
Cappuccino (regular)₱ 161.77
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)₱ 56.18
Water (0.33 liter bottle)₱ 37.85
MARKETSPHP
Milk (regular), (1 liter)₱ 167.86
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)₱ 107.61
Rice (white), (1kg)₱ 168.85
Eggs (regular) (12)₱ 161.23
Local Cheese (1kg)₱ 877.73
Chicken Fillets (1kg)₱ 452.63
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)₱ 1,069.85
Apples (1kg)₱ 233.57
Banana (1kg)₱ 107.00
Oranges (1kg)₱ 152.77
Tomato (1kg)₱ 189.76
Potato (1kg)₱ 144.48
Onion (1kg)₱ 137.14
Lettuce (1 head)₱ 103.78
Water (1.5 liter bottle)₱ 61.83
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)₱ 711.39
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)₱ 88.08
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)₱ 126.61
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro)₱ 213.42
TRANSPORTATIONPHP
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)₱ 35.57
Monthly Pass (Regular Price)₱ 2,276.46
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)₱ 151.17
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)₱ 44.46
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)₱ 489.97
Gasoline (1 liter)₱ 54.73
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car)₱ 1,778,485.18
Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car)₱ 1,392,264.38
UTILITIES (Monthly)PHP
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment₱ 4,626.14
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data₱ 1,891.52
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)₱ 1,302.56
CLOTHING and SHOESPHP
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)₱ 4,203.44
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …)₱ 1,773.53
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range)₱ 4,829.46
1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes₱ 6,150.68
RENT PER MONTHPHP
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre₱ 24,366.07
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre₱ 18,439.35
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre₱ 60,995.63
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre₱ 45,164.35
The price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment in the City CentrePHP
Price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment Outside of Centre₱ 451,681.95
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre₱ 279,137.90

Qualifications And Requirements

If you are a foreign national who wants to work, you must obtain a Taiwan Work Permit, which authorizes you to work, a Work Visa, which allows you to travel to Taiwan for the purpose of employment, and a Taiwan Residence Permit (Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)), which allows you to live in Taiwan long-term.

The Taiwanese government only issues Taiwan work permits to specific categories of workers. 

According to the Workforce Development Agency of the Taiwan Ministry of Labor, only the following foreign professionals are eligible to work:

  • Specialized or Technical Workers in one of the following fields:
    • Civil Engineering or Practice of Architecture
    • Communications and Transportation
    • Tax and Financial Services
    • Practice of Real Estate Agency
    • Immigration Services
    • Practice of Attorneys, or of Patent Attorneys
    • Practice of Technicians
    • Health Care
    • Environmental Protection
    • Culture, Sports, and Recreation Services
    • Academic Research
    • Practice of Veterinarians
    • Manufacturing
    • Wholesales
    • Other fields as decided by the Central Governing Authority and the Central Competent Authorities
  • The Director or Manager of a business established or invested by an overseas Chinese national or a foreign national
  • School Teachers
  • Foreign Teachers in Cram Schools (full-time)
  • Sports Coaches or Athletes
  • Artists and Performing Artists
  • Contract Worker (construction, sales, technical cooperation, etc.)

In addition, if you find a job in any of the aforementioned sectors of employment, your salary cannot be lower than the average monthly salary determined by the central competent authority.

It is your employer who has to get a work permit for you. 

They can apply for your work permit online through the website of the Workforce Development Agency (WDA) of the Ministry of Labor or by submitting the application at the reception counter of the Workforce Development Agency of the Ministry of Labor (either in person or by registered mail). 

Once your employer obtains a Taiwan work permit on your behalf, then depending on your situation, you may apply for a Taiwan Work Visa (if you are abroad) or apply for a Taiwan residence permit (if you are already in Taiwan on a Visitor Visa)

How to Apply

To apply for a job, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Prepare your documents: Ensure you have the necessary documents ready, such as your resume/CV, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or degrees.
  2. Research job opportunities: Explore various resources to find job openings. Some popular websites for job searches include Philippinego.com , 104, Learn 4 Good, Career Jet, Glassdoor, and Indeed. These platforms offer a wide range of job opportunities across different sectors.
  3. Apply for jobs: Once you find suitable job openings, submit your application through the respective platforms or company websites. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
  4. Obtain a work permit: If you secure a job offer, your employer will need to apply for a Taiwan Work Permit on your behalf. They can do this online through the website of the Workforce Development Agency (WDA) of the Ministry of Labor or by submitting the application at the reception counter of the Workforce Development Agency (either in person or by registered mail).
  5. Apply for a Taiwan Work Visa: Depending on your situation, you may need to apply for a Taiwan Work Visa if you are abroad or a Taiwan Residence Permit (Alien Resident Certificate – ARC) if you are already in Taiwan on a Visitor Visa. Your employer can guide you through this process.

Please note that eligibility criteria for working may vary depending on your profession and qualifications. 

It’s essential to review the specific requirements outlined by the Taiwanese government and consult with your employer or relevant authorities for accurate information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you’re now well-equipped with all the essential information you need for your Taiwan job adventure!

 We’ve covered everything from job listings and accredited manpower agencies to the benefits and privileges of working.

Keep in mind that the qualifications and requirements for working may vary based on your profession and qualifications, so be sure to consult with your employer and relevant authorities for accurate information.

Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to take the first step toward your exciting career. 

Best of luck with your job search and your future endeavors in this vibrant and dynamic country!

DISCLAIMER:

This website provides job information only and is not responsible for recruitment or application processes. No fees are required for accessing job details or applying through this platform. Use caution and diligence when dealing with potential employers. (Read full)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How to find job listings in Taiwan?
    • You can look for job listings through online job portals, company websites, or by networking with people in your industry.
  2. What are the common job categories in Taiwan?
    • Common job categories include technology and IT, manufacturing, finance, education, healthcare, and hospitality.
  3. What are the requirements for foreigners to work in Taiwan?
    • Foreigners typically need a work permit and a valid job offer from a Taiwanese company. The company usually assists with the paperwork and visa application process.
  4. What are the most in-demand industries for jobs in Taiwan?
    • Technology, particularly semiconductor manufacturing, is a major industry. Other in-demand sectors include healthcare, finance, and education.
  5. What is the average salary for different job positions in Taiwan?
    • Salaries vary widely, but on average, professionals can expect to earn around TWD 1,000,000 per year. IT and finance professionals often earn more.
  6. Are there any language requirements for the Taiwan Job?
    • While Mandarin Chinese is the official language, many multinational companies hire English-speaking employees. However, knowing some Mandarin can be a valuable skill.
  7. How to apply for a job in Taiwan?
    • You can apply for a job by submitting your resume and application through job portals or by networking and reaching out to companies directly.
  8. What are the important cultural considerations for job seekers in Taiwan?
    • Building strong interpersonal relationships, showing respect for senior colleagues, and understanding local customs are essential cultural considerations.
  9. What are the top companies to work for in Taiwan?
    • Some top companies include TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn), and ASUS. It depends on your field of interest.
  10. What is the job market like in Taiwan?
    • The job market is competitive, especially in high-tech industries. However, there are opportunities for skilled professionals, both locals and foreigners.
  11. What are the employment rights and benefits for employees in Taiwan?
    • Taiwanese employees have rights like paid leave, health insurance, and retirement benefits. Foreign employees usually have similar rights, but it’s essential to understand your specific employment contract.
  12. What are the challenges faced by foreigners working in Taiwan?
    • Challenges can include adapting to a new culture, language barriers, and understanding local work dynamics. However, with time and effort, these challenges can be overcome.

Citation

  1. ofwgio. (2022, September 9). 11 Reasons Why Filipinos Should Work in Taiwan. The Pinoy OFW. https://thepinoyofw.com/reasons-work-taiwan/
  2. ‌Taiwan. (n.d.). Papaya Global. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from https://www.papayaglobal.com/countrypedia/country/taiwan/
  3. ‌Cost of Living in Taiwan. (n.d.). Www.numbeo.com. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Taiwan&displayCurrency=PHP
  4. ‌Adrian, M. (2019, April 18). How To Be An OFW. IMoney.ph. https://www.imoney.ph/articles/work-abroad-ofw-guide