For short-term stays in Taiwan, the duration varies based on the purpose of the application and generally does not exceed 6 months.

For long-term stays in Taiwan, the duration of residency varies based on the purpose of the application, typically ranging from 6 months to 3 years. Extension of residency is permitted if foreigners meet the relevant requirements.

• Foreigners may apply for a "visa" through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or R.O.C. Embassies and Missions Abroad if they meet the relevant requirements. After entering Taiwan with the visa for specific reasons, they can apply for an "Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)" with the National Immigration Agency (NIA).
• The validity of the ARC varies depending on the reason for the application and generally ranges from 6 months to 3 years.
• Extension or change of residence purpose is applicable if foreigners comply with the relevant requirements.

APRC holders can stay in Taiwan indefinitely and enjoy certain benefits. However, they must meet the relevant requirements to maintain their permanent residency status.

3 Methods for Foreigners to Apply for APRC

• APRC
  Foreigners who meet any of the residency requirements in Taiwan may apply for APRC, provided that other relevant requirements are met:

  • Legally and continuously residing in Taiwan for 5 years, with at least 183 days per year.
  • Foreign spouse or children of R.O.C. national with registered permanent residence in Taiwan and have legally resided in Taiwan for 10 years, during which period they have actually resided in Taiwan for at least 183 days for 5 years.

• APRC (Plum Blossom Card - Investment Immigrant)
  Foreigners who meet any of the investment requirements in Taiwan are exempted from the residency requirement and may apply for an APRC (Plum Blossom Card), provided that other relevant conditions are met:

  • Having invested over NTD 15 million in a for-profit enterprise and created 5 or more job opportunities for R.O.C. nationals for over 3 years.
  • Having invested NTD 30 million in Central Government Bonds for over 3 years.

• APRC (Plum Blossom Card - Exceptional Contributions, Senior Professional Personnel, International Awardees)
  Foreigners who meet any of these criteria are exempted from the residency requirement and may apply for an APRC (Plum Blossom Card), provided that other relevant conditions are met:

  • Having invested over NTD 15 million in a for-profit enterprise and created 5 or more job opportunities for R.O.C. nationals for over 3 years.
  • Having invested NTD 30 million in Central Government Bonds for over 3 years.

Foreigners may acquire R.O.C. nationality through naturalization if they meet relevant requirements. After approval by the National Immigration Agency (NIA), foreigners can obtain R.O.C. national ID cards, passports, and household registration, thereby becoming official R.O.C. nationals.

R.O.C. Nationality Application via Naturalization for Foreigners
In principle, foreigners intending to obtain R.O.C. nationality through "naturalization" must meet a certain requirements. However, the specific requirements vary based on the foreigners' identity, background, nationality, etc. Not all foreigners are required to meet ALL the requirements.

Acquisition of {Visit/Residence/Permanent Residence} Approval
This merely signifies obtaining permission to reside in Taiwan for a specified period. The duration of stay varies depending on the type of certificate obtained, and it does not confer R.O.C. citizenship.