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Living Security

Accommodation
Rental Accommodation
Rental Accommodation

Most of the expatriates living in Taipei rent their accommodation and there is a wide range of properties available to rent. The rental prices are fairly expensive in the center of Taipei but are considerably cheaper in other areas around Taipei.
Many single expats that visit the country choose to rent a room in a shared apartment. This is a good way to adjust to the cultural and social aspects of the country and the roommates can serve as a source of information about life in Taipei. There are many online ads and notice boards in places such as universities that advertise the room information and prices.
For families moving to Taiwan who do not have accommodation that has been arranged through their employer, larger apartments are available in every city. Houses can also be found in the suburbs and more rural areas.
When renting property in Taiwan, you will usually be asked to sign a one-year contract and may need to pay a security deposit of two months' rent, as well as one month's rent in advance. Some landlords may require you to have the lease co-signed by a Taiwan citizen who acts as a guarantor when renting a property.

 

Useful information about renting accommodation in Taipei:Taipei Apartment Rental Network、TMM Rental & Moving Service

Applying for the acquisition or transfer of realty rights
Applying for the acquisition or transfer of realty rights

The possibility of foreigners (including legal persons) acquiring realty rights depends on whether there are equal and mutual benefits for both the foreigner and Taiwan. Should such acquisition of realty rights serve the purpose as regulated under Article 19 of the Land Act, a direct application can be made with any Land Office in Taipei City. After reviewing the application and checking the documents for any possible errors, the Land Office will submit the documents for approval by the City Government, where the registration of realty right can be processed after the application has been approved.

 

For more information, follow the link: Foreigners Acquire and Transfer Land Rights、FAQs

Electricity
Electricity

Taiwan has the same electrical standard as the US and Canada: 110V, 60Hz AC. Electrical sockets have two vertical slots. If you bring appliances from Europe, Australia or Southeast Asia, you'll need an adaptor or transformer.

Keeping Pets
Keeping Pets

In order to relocate to the country with your pet, an application to the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine in the Council of Agriculture (Executive Yuan) shall be filed in advance. In addition, an application for onsite inspection shall be filed to the inspection and quarantine counter at the entrance harbor or airport when your pet arrives in Taiwan and you will also need to submit the approval document for importing/the certificate of the animal inspection and quarantine to the relevant Department. After your pet has qualified for the relevant inspection certificate, they could either be released on-site or transferred to the quarantine unit for quarantine purposes or will then be released after the quarantine period has been completed.
For any questions, please consult:

  • The entrance at Taoyuan International Airport: the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Hsinchu Branch (TEL: +8863-3982431or +8863-3982663 ext. 201、202)
  • The entrance at Kaohsiung Airport: the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Kaohsiung Branch (TEL: +8867-8059590 or +8867-5360070 ext. 518)

 

According to the regulations governing the keeping of pets in Taipei, the owner shall manage the pet registration with the private organization consigned by the Taipei City Animal Protection Office within 4 months from the birth of the pet and 2 months within entering the country. Moreover, the owner shall also manage the cancellation of the registration-to-registration organization within one month following the death of the pet.

 

For more FAQs about pets: Taipei City Animal Protection Office

Telecom & Telephones
Local Calls
Local Calls
When applying local phone, you will have to present personal identification, including Alien Resident Certificate, passport or driver's license, and accompanied by a native guarantee (ID Card and Health Insurance IC Card are necessary) at Service Centers in person. When making a local call, simply dial the local exchange and subscriber's no.
  • Local Call Center: 123
 
Long-Distance Calls
When making a long-distance call, be sure to dial "0" and the area code first, and then the subscriber's no. For example, from Taipei to Kaohsiung, you will need to dial: 07+xxx-xxxx ◎. For more information, please visit the CHT website.
 
International Calls
You can direct-dial an international call as follows: International Prefix Code (009 or 002)+Country Code +Area Code +Telephone no. Example: From Taiwan to New York in the U.S.A. 009 (or 002)+1+212+ xxx+xxxx. The initial "0" of the area code is usually not required when dialing international calls. For example, Tokyo's area code is "03". You only have to dial "3".
  • Operator Toll Dialing Service No.: 100
  • Call Center No.: 0800-080100
Mobile Calls
Mobile Calls
When applying mobile phone, you will have to present your personal identification, including the Alien Resident Certificate, passport or driver's license, and accompanied by a native guarantee (ID Card and Health Insurance IC Card are necessary) at Service Centers in person. Collocated with CHT's Mobile telephone, you can buy an offer handset. When making a mobile phone call, simply dial the 10-digit number. Example: 09-xxxxxxxx (10 digits).
  • Call Center No.: 0800-080090
  • For more information, please visit the emome website
Information Regarding the Services Provided by Banks for Foreign Nationals Residing in Taiwan
Religion
Religion
Taiwan Regious Culture Map
Taiwan Regious Culture Map APP
Taiwan’s religious culture is richly steeped in the integration of local and immigrant social practices, thus the exploration of Taiwan’s diverse religions makes up an important aspect of Taiwan’s cultural tourism. “Taiwan Religious Culture Map" is designed to create the most representative religious tourism brand in Taiwan, including three special packages: " Top 100 Religious Scenes of Taiwan” (the most representative religious sites in Taiwan), “Temple Stay in Taiwan” (carefully selected religious experiences similar to vacation travels), and “Religious Cultural Heritage in Taiwan " (government-approved religious and cultural heritage). As the best guide to religious tourism in Taiwan, Taiwan Religious and Culture Map allows visitors to access information on religious attractions and assets anywhere they go.
Marriage/Divorce
Marriage/Divorce

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) Those married in Taiwan:Both parties shall apply for the marriage registration in person at any household registration office.
    (2) Those married abroad
    1. The party concerned must apply for the marriage registration at any household registration office.
    2. Where the applicant is not able to complete the registration in person, he/she may appoint an agent by power of attorney (power of attorney document established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office).
    3. Applicants may request, in person, for the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office to forward their marriage registration application to the appropriate household registration office in Taiwan.
  • Required Documents
    (1) Those married in the ROC
    1. The household certificate of the party with the household registration documents in Taiwan, a ROC ID card, and a seal (signature).
    2. The Marriage Agreement (bearing the signatures of the two witnesses).
    3. The Chinese name declaration.
    4. The Identification Cards of foreign spouses and the marital status certificates with a Chinese translation version and certified by R.O.C. foreign missions.

    (2) Those married abroad
    1. If the party concerned applied for the registration at a household registration office
      1. The household certificate of the party with the household registration in Taiwan, a ROC ID card, and a seal.
      2. Wedding certificates with a Chinese translation version and certified (verified) by R.O.C. foreign missions. In addition, if “this juridical act conforms to the formal requisites under the law of the place affixed”, then the marital status certificates could be exempted.
      3. The identification certificate of the foreign spouse.
      4. If the foreign spouse is unable to return to the R.O.C. with the national, then the foreign spouse must additionally submit his/ her Chinese name declaration certified by R.O.C. foreign missions.
    2. If the parties concerned apply for the marriage registration abroad through the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office
      1. The foreign spouse’s Chinese name declaration and marriage certificate with a Chinese translation version are required.
      2. The declaration form for marriage is required.
      3. ROC citizens may register their same-sex marriage to a foreigner from nations or regions where same-sex marriage has been legalized. Relevant registration procedures and required documents are the same as above. (To obtain a list of nations or regions where same-sex marriage has been legalized, please go to any household registration office in Taipei City.)

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) Those divorced in the ROC: Both parties shall apply for registration in person to any household registration office. (In the case of a decree of divorce, court mediation or court settlement, either party or an appointed agent may undertake the aforesaid application).
    (2) Those divorced abroad
    1. The party concerned must apply for registration at any household registration office.
    2. Applicants who are unable to apply in person may appoint a representative by power of attorney (translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office); that person with power of attorney must be approved by jurisdictional household registration office.
    3. Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he/she may appoint an agent by power of attorney (power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by ROC embassy/consulate/representative office).
    4. Applicants may request in person for ROC embassy/consulate/representative office to forward their marriage registration application and required documents to the appropriate household registration office in Taiwan.
  • Required Documents
    (1) Those divorced in ROC
    1. The household certificate of the party with the household registration in Taiwan, ROC identification card and a seal (or signature).
    2. Identification certificate of the foreign spouse.
    3. Divorce agreement (bearing the signatures of two witnesses); in the case of a sentenced divorce, the court sentence and documentation of authenticity or agreement of settlement/mediation in court.

    (2) Those divorced abroad
    1. The party concerned applies to the ROC household registration office.
      1. The household certificate of the party with household registration in Taiwan, ROC identification card, and a seal (or signature).
      2. Identification certificate of the foreign spouse.
      3. Divorce certificate with Chinese translation and certified (verified) by R.O.C. foreign missions. (For divorce under the law of the place, such divorce certificates should affix the juridical act which confirms to the formal requisites under the law of the place). 
    2. If the party concerned apply abroad through the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office
      1. Divorce document with Chinese translation.
      2. Declaration form for divorce.
  • At the time of filing the registration for divorce, the spouse who has assumed the surname of the other party should apply to revert to his/her own surname.
  • If a ROC citizen, after registering his/her same-sex marriage to a foreigner from a nation or region where same-sex marriage has been legalized, would like to have his/her same-marriage registration terminated, he/she may go to any household registration office in Taipei City for the information regarding relevant procedures and required documents.
Births/Adoptions
Births/Adoptions

A：

  • After the Nationality Law was amended on Feb. 9th, 2000, the parents of a child born legitimately in R.O.C. to a foreign national father and a R.O.C. national mother shall file the birth registration at the place to be established as the household registration. (However, children that are under 20 years old (born after Feb. 10th, 1980), by the time of the Nationality Law was promulgated can apply for a long-term resident certificate to the National Immigration Agency, Ministry of the Interior in order to complete the initial household registration). The child's Chinese surname should be recorded in accordance with the provisions provided in the Article 1059, Civic Law and should follow the local customs of using a surname. The order of birth is generally recorded according to the father's part; even if the father is a foreign national. Children that were born abroad should file the application along with the identification certificate translated in Chinese and issued by the competent organizations abroad and notarized by the R.O.C. representative office
  • Application Process
    (1) Those born in the ROC
    1. Either parent may act as an applicant to apply to the household registration office at the place to be established as the household registration
    2. Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, she/he may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated and notarized by the ROC embassy/ consulate /representative office)
    (2) Those born Abroad
    1. Those who are under 20 years old and enter the country with our nation passport, a copy of entry permit, or a foreign passport shall apply for the settlement certificate issued by the National Immigration Agency, MOI for the application of the initial household registration
    2. Where a person above the age of 20, he/she should apply for permanent Resident Certificate in Taiwan in accordance with the Immigration Act and the Enforcement Rules of the Immigration Act to apply for the initiating household registration after acquiring the settlement certificate.
    3. The applicant or the head of the household should make the application. In addition, the child’s legal guardian (statutory agent) should make the application for minors
  • Required Documents
    (1) Those born in ROC
    1. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    2. The household certificate of the intended household registration
    3. The child’s original birth certificate with an agreement of the children’s surname enclosed
    (2) Those born abroad
    1. The original long-term certificate with 1 photograph enclosed
    2. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    3. The household certificate of the intended household registration
    4. The consent letter by the head of the household or the guardian (statutory agent)

A：With respect to the household registration application

  • Application Process
    (1) A child born in the ROC
    1. The biological mother shall apply for the birth registration with the household registration office as the applicant at the place intended to be the household registration
    2. Where the applicant cannot apply in person, she shall entrust another person with a Power of Attorney to complete the application
    (2) Those born abroad
    1. Those who are under 20 years old and enter the country with our national passport, a copy of entry permit or a foreign passport shall apply for the settlement certificate issued by the National Immigration Agency, MOI for the application of the initial household registration
    2. Where a person above the age of 20, he/she should apply for Permanent Resident Certificate in Taiwan in accordance with the Immigration Act and the Enforcement Rules of the Immigration Act to apply for initiating household registration after acquires settlement certificate. 
    3. The applicant shall be made by the applicant himself or the head of household. Application for minors shall be made by the guardian (statutory agent).
  • Required Documents
    (1) Those born in ROC
    1. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    2. The household certificate of the place intended to be the household registration
    3. The child’s original birth certificate with the agreement of the children’s surname enclosed
    (2) Those born abroad
    1. The original long-term certificate with 1 photograph enclosed
    2. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    3. The household certificate of the place intended to be the household registration
    4. The consent letter by the guardian (statutory agent)
  • With respect to the registration of paternity
    (1) Application Process
    1. The acknowledging person may act as the applicant to apply at any household registration office
    2. Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office) after receiving the approval given by the household registration office
    3. Where the biological father’s surname is in conformity with the local customs, he may make an acknowledgement and apply for a name change to the child’s surname to either the father’s or the mother’s surname through agreement at the same time
    (2) Required Documents
    1. Written acknowledgement documents (Certificate for the valid acknowledgement under ROC laws)
    2. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    3. The child’s household certificate and ROC ID card (except in cases where a ROC ID has not been issued)
    4. The parent’s agreement of the child’s surname
    5. The agreement for the executing or exercising of the rights and obligations of the minor children concerned

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) Children born in the ROC
    1. Either parent may apply to the household registration office at the place intended to be the household registration
    2. Where the applicant cannot apply in person, he/she shall entrust another person as a Power of Attorney representative and they may file the registration on the behalf of the applicant (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    (2) Those born abroad
    1. Those who are under 20 years old and enter the country with our nation passport, a copy of entry permit or a foreign passport shall apply for the settlement certificate issued by the National Immigration Agency, MOI for the application of the initial household registration
    2. A person above the age of 20 years old should apply for long-term residency in Taiwan in accordance with the Immigration Act and the Enforcement Rules of the Immigration Act to apply for the initiating household registration after acquiring the settlement certificate
    3. The applicant or the head of the household shall make the application. The legal guardian (statutory agent) shall make the application for minors
  • Required Documents
    (1) Children born in the ROC
    1. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    2. The household certificate for the intended household registration
    3. The child’s original birth certificate with the agreement of the children’s surname enclosed
    (2) Those born abroad
    1. The original long-term certificate with 1 photograph enclosed
    2. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    3. The household certificate of the place intended to be the household registration
    4. The consent letter by the head of the household or the guardian (statutory agent)

A：An illegitimate child who has not been adopted by his/her biological father shall be considered as a foreign national and does not need to file for household registration in Taiwan. However, minors who were born by the time of the amendment and promulgation of the Nationality Law on Feb. 9th 2000 as well as were under 20 years old who have been adopted by their biological fathers with no necessity to undertake the record acquisition of R.O.C. nationality shall be filed in accordance with the pertaining provisions of the Immigration Law and Related regulations

  • With respect to the acknowledgement registration (registration of paternity)
    (1) Application Process
    1. The acknowledging person may act as the applicant to apply at any household registration office
    2. Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office) after the approval is given by the household registration office
    (2) Required Documents
    1. Written acknowledgement documents. (Certificate for the valid acknowledgement under ROC laws.)
    2. The birth certificate of the acknowledged person (a birth certificate made abroad must be translated into Chinese and be notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/trade office abroad)
    3. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    4. The marital status certificate of the mother and its Chinese translation document (this document requires authentication by R.O.C. foreign missions
    5. Parent's agreement for child's surname.
    6. The agreement for the executing or exercising of the rights and obligations of the minor children concerned.
  • With respect to the household registration application
    (1) Application Process
    1. Those born in the ROC
      1. The father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, head of the household, cohabitant or foster parent may apply to the household registration office at the place intended to be the household registration
      2. Where the applicant cannot apply in person, he/she shall entrust another person with the Power of Attorney representative to file on behalf of the applicant (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    2. Those born abroad
      1. Those who are under 20 years old and enter the country with our national passport, a copy of entry permit or a foreign passport, shall apply for the settlement certificate issued by the National Immigration Agency, MOI for the application of the initial household registration
      2. A person above the age of 20 years old should apply for long-term residency in Taiwan in accordance with the Immigration Act and the Enforcement Rules of the Immigration Act to apply for the initiating household registration after acquiring the settlement certificate
      3. The applicant or the head of the household shall make the application. The legal guardian (statutory agent) shall make the application for minors
    (2) Required Documents
    1. Those born in the ROC
      1. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
      2. The household certificate of the place intended to be the household registration
      3. The child’s original birth certificate with an agreement of the children’s surname enclosed
    2. Those born abroad
      1. The original long-term certificate with 1 photograph enclosed
      2. The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
      3. The household certificate of the place intended to be the household registration
      4. The consent letter by the head of the household or the guardian (statutory agent)

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) The party concerned submits a petition for the adoption admission to the court
    (2) The adopter or adoptee files the application at any household registration office
    (3) Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he/she may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    (4) Where the adoptee’s surname is in conformity with the local customs, the adopted child’s surname may either be changed to that of the adoptive parents or may be kept the same as the original surname
  • Required Documents
    (1) The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    (2) The adoptee’s household certificate and ROC ID card (except in cases where a ROC ID has not been issued)
    (3) The court ruling document and the final ruling certificate
    (4) The parent’s agreement of the children’s surname

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) The party concerned submits a petition for the adoption admission to the court
    (2) The adopter or adoptee files the application at any household registration office
    (3) Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he/she may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    (4) Where the adoptee’s surname is in conformity with the local customs, the adopted child’s surname may either be changed to that of the adoptive parents or be kept the same as the original surname
  • Required Documents
    (1) The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    (2) The child’s household certificate and ROC ID card (except in cases where the ROC ID has not been issued)
    (3) The parent’s agreement for the child’s surname
    (4) The agreement for the executing or exercising of the rights and obligations of the minor children concerned

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) The adopter or adoptee files the application at any household registration office
    (2) Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he/she may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    (3) The party concerned submits a petition for the adoption admission to the court if the adopted children are under age
    (4) The child shall revert to his/her birth name
  • Required Documentation
    (1) The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    (2) The adoptee’s household certificate and ROC ID card (except in cases where the ROC ID has not been issued; those who have, thereafter, received a ROC ID should provide this new information)
    (3) The certificate for the valid adoption under ROC laws. (Documents made abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)

A：

  • Application Process
    (1) The adopter or adoptee files the application at any household registration office
    (2) Where the applicant is not able to apply in person, he/she may appoint a representative by power of attorney (the power of attorney documents established abroad must be notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
    (3) The party concerned submits a petition for the adoption admission to the court if the adopted children are under age
  • Required Documentation
    (1) The applicant’s identification certificate and seal (signature)
    (2) The certificate for the valid termination of the adoption under ROC laws. (Documents made abroad must be translated into Chinese and notarized by the ROC embassy/consulate/representative office)
Registration for R.O.C. citizenship / Nationality

A：

  • Application Process: According to Article 3, 8, 9 of ROC Law of Nationality Act, Article 2 to Article 9 and Article 11, 16, 18 of the Enforcement Regulations Nationality Act, people who have domiciles in the territory of ROC and meet related requirements may apply for naturalization through the household registration office to be forwarded to the Ministry of the Interior for permit.
  • Required Documents
    (1) Application for Nationality Naturalization (including one photograph taken in the last 2 years; refer to the photograph specifications required for the renewal of national ID cards)
    (2) Legal and valid Alien Resident Certificate or Alien Permanent Residence Permit (shall apply for residence visas to overseas diplomatic offices in accordance with regulations of "Act Governing the Issuance of Visas in Foreign Passports" and, within 15 days following the entry with such visa, shall apply for alien residence permit to local service stations of National Immigration Agency of MOI) (the alien permanent residence permit shall apply to National Immigration Agency of MOI in accordance with pertaining provisions of the “Regulations of the Immigration Act”)
    (3) Alien Residence Certificates (applicants are not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the applicant’s behalf and are subject to the requirement of annually has resided in the territory of the ROC for more than 183 days every year in total for more than 5 consecutive years) as stipulated in this Act; where the stay period fails to attain 30 days, it will be deemed the discontinuity of resident period. The resident period of the blue-collar employee and academic attendance student or both of them are objects of relatives shall not be included in such calculation)
    (4) Certificates of the arrival and departure dates. (The applicant is not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the applicant' behalf).
    (5) Certificate of police record or other relevant documents issued by the original country (the issuance date must be at least 6 months prior to the application date; those produced in foreign countries shall be verified by Overseas Office Republic of China and shall be further inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; those produced by foreign embassies to R.O.C. or authorized agencies shall be subject to re-inspection of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If the said documents are made in a foreign language, they shall be attached with a Chinese translation verified by the Overseas Office Republic of China and further inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or certified by domestic notary) (Applicants who are the spouse of R.O.C. citizens and have already obtained the Permanent Residene Certificate or the reason to reside in Taiwan on the Alien Resident Cerficate is dependent on relatives (husband or wife) are not required to submit this document. Applicants who where once the spouse of R.O.C. citizens but have already dissolved the marital relationship or who have been proved of no record of exiting R.O.C. after their martial relationship been dissolved are not required to submit this documents and applicants who already entered R.O.C. before his/her 14th birthday and have no record of exiting R.O.C. may not be required to submit this documents.)
    (6) Police Criminal Record Certificate issued by municipality and county (city) government police bureaus during the aliens’ stay in the R.O.C. (The applicant is not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the applicant's behalf)
    (7) Certificates of sufficient property or professional skills to be self-reliant or to ensure personal sustainability (adhering to Article 7 of the Enforcement Rules of Nationality Act, are exempt from filing this certificate though aliens who are spouses of R.O.C. citizens and have been married for more than 3 years or have obtained the Permanent Residence Certificate are not required to submit this document)
    (8) Certificates of a basic language command and requirements of Article 3 of the Standards for Identification of Basic Language Abilities and Common Sense of National Rights and Duties of Naturalized R.O.C. Citizens
    (9) Certificate fee of NT$1,200 (to be paid via postal money order with the Ministry of Interior as the payee or use your computer to go to "e-Bill National Payment Network App"or download "e-Bill National Payment Network App” using mobile device with mobile payment function to pay for the fee).
    (10) The applicant should, within one year of the date of naturalization approved by the Ministry of Interior, provides an original proof of document, along with Chinese translation of the loss of original foreign nationality (where proof documents made in foreign countries should be verified by our Overseas Representative Office and re-inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for those made domestically by the foreign embassies or authorized institutions in our country shall be re-inspected by our consulates in China, or the authority of the producers should be re-accredited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign proof documents should be attached with Chinese translations which are verified by our Overseas Representative Offices and re-inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or domestic notary certifications). However, those who fail to provide document of the loss of original foreign nationality due to the limitation of the laws or administrative procedures of the country of origin which are verified as true by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall be able to apply for the time-limit extension

A：

  • Application Process:According to Section 1 of Articles 4, 8, and 9 of the R.O.C. Law of Nationality and Articles 2 to 8, 15, and 17 of the Enforcement Regulations of the Law of Nationality, a foreigner who is the spouse of a R.O.C. citizen may apply for naturalization through the R.O.C. township household registration office
  • Required documents
    (1) Application for Nationality Naturalization (including a photograph taken in the past two years; refer to the photograph specifications for the renewal of national ID cards)
    (2) Legal and valid Alien Resident Certificate or Alien Permanent Residence Permit (apply to overseas diplomatic offices for such residence visas in accordance with the regulations of the “Act Governing the Issuance of Visas in Foreign Passports” and, within 15 days after entry with such visa, apply to local service stations of the National Immigration Agency of the MOI for an alien residence permit in accordance with the relevant provisions of the “Regulations of the Immigration Act”)
    (3) Alien Residence Certificate (applicants are not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the behalf of the applicant and are subject to the requirement of a total of 183 legal resident days each year for at least five consecutive years as stipulated in this Act); when the stay period is less than 30 days, the resident period will be deemed to be discontinued. The resident period of blue-collar employees and academic attendance students or both that are objects of relatives shall not be included in such calculation)
    (4) Certificates of the applicant’s arrival and departure dates (The applicant is not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the behalf of the applicant)
    (5) Police Criminal Record Certificate issued by municipality and county (city) government police bureaus during the aliens’ stay in the R.O.C. (The applicant is not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the behalf of the applicant)
    (6) Certificates of a basic command of the language and the requirements of Article 3 of the Standards for the Identification of Basic Language Abilities and Common Sense of National Rights and Duties of Naturalized R.O.C. Citizens
    (7) Household registration copy with completed marriage registration (The applicant is not required to submit this document as the household registry agency shall enquire for the documents on the behalf of the applicant). Applicants failing to submit a copy of the household registration shall enclose their marriage certificate and identification certificates of foreign and R.O.C spouses. Those marrying in the R.O.C. shall also enclose the marital status certificate of the foreign spouses translated into Chinese and authenticated by a R.O.C. foreign mission
    (8) Certificate fee of NT$1,200 (to be paid to the Ministry of the Interior via postal money order or online through the “e-Bill National Payment Network” or using the “e-Bill National Payment Network App” using a mobile device with mobile payment function)
    (9) Within one year of the date of naturalization approved by the Ministry of the Interior, the applicant should provide an original proof of document, along with a Chinese translation, of the loss of original foreign nationality (documents of proof produced in foreign countries should be verified by our Overseas Representative Office and re-inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; those made domestically by foreign embassies or authorized institutions in our country shall be re-inspected by our consulates in China, or the authority of the producers should be re-accredited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign documents of proof should have Chinese translations attached that have been verified by our Overseas Representative Offices and re-inspected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or domestic notary certifications). However, those who fail to provide a document of the loss of original foreign nationality due to the laws or administrative procedures of the country of origin, which are verified to be true by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shall be allowed to apply for a time-limit extension
 
High-Level Professionals for Naturalization (Chinese version only)
 
Mackay Project

A foreigner who has lived in Taiwan for more than twenty years, stays in Taiwan more than 183 days every year with an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate issued by the National Immigration Agency of the MOI (hereinafter the NIA), is at least 65 years old, and has a long-term contribution, services, or a special contribution to our country may enjoy a special offer to take domestic public transportation, enter public (operated) scenic areas, entertainment places, and cultural and educational facilities, and receive long-term care services identical to those of domestic seniors after passing a review
Those who have passed the review and have a household registered in Taipei City shall do the following:

  • Take the renewed Alien Permanent Resident Certificate to any district office in the City to apply every month free of charge for 480 points on the elderly easy card for use on public transportation and at venues under the city government. For more information on special offers for the elderly(Chinese version only), please consult the Department of Social Welfare(02-27208889 ext.1680).
  • To apply for Long-term Care Service provided by the city government, you only need to pay partial expenses (16%). Please call Taipei Long-term Care Management Center at 02-2537-1099 to apply.

 

 
For more information
R.O.C. Citizenship
Immigration Services
Introduction to Family Welfare for Immigrants
Household Registration Offices, Taipei City
Security/Crime Prevention
119, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, and Emergency Event Reporting
110, Police Hotline
113, Protection Hotline (domestic violence, sexual assault)
165, Anti-scam Hotline
24-hour Protection Hotline Reporting in Taipei: 2361-5295 ext. 6226
 
Prevention of Sexual Harassment
One-Stop Service Program for Victims of Sexual Assault
The One-Stop Service Program for Victims of Sexual Assault has been established at Taipei City Hospital’s Zhongxiao Branch, Yangming Branch, Heping Fuyou Branch, Renai Branch, Zhongxing Branch, and Wanfang Hospital and incorporates police, medical care staff members, and social workers to offer victims a safe haven and comprehensive services.
 
Prevention of Sexual Harassment

Taipei City Government has established the Taipei City Sexual Harassment Committee to provide consultation regarding sexual harassment. If you have suffered sexual harassment in the workplace, please call 1999 (out of town, call 02-27208889) ext. 7023 (Department of Labor) for help. If you are a student and are harassed by a teacher, staff, or another student, please call 1999 (out of town, call 02-27208889) ext. 1212 (Department of Education). If your case does not fall into either of the above categories, please contact us at 1999 (out of town, call 02-27208889) ext. 3365 or 4553 (Department of Social Welfare) for more information.

 

※ If you can only communicate in English, please contact the Department of Social Welfare at 2759-7701 for further assistance.

Prohibition on Drunk Driving
Prohibition on Drunk Driving
  • Drivers with a breath alcohol concentration of 0.15 mg per liter or higher or a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03% or higher are guilty of an offense against public safety.
  • Drivers with a breath alcohol concentration of 0.15 mg per liter or higher, or a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03% or higher violate Article 35 of the Act Governing the Punishment for Violations of Road Traffic Regulations and will be fined between NT$15,000 and NT$90,000, while the car driver will be fined between NT$30,000 and NT$120,000; the violator’s vehicle will be removed from the scene and detained by the authorities, and the driver’s license shall be suspended for one year. If said vehicle had any passengers aged 12 or younger, or if an accident with injuries occurs, the driver’s license shall be suspended for 2 years. If the traffic accident results in severe injuries or death, the at-fault party’s driver license will be permanently revoked, and he/she will be prohibited from taking a test to acquire another driver’s license.
  • Drivers with a breath alcohol concentration of 0.25 mg per liter or higher, or a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05% or higher may be subject to a fine of no more than NT$200,000 and imprisonment for up to two years.
  • In the same case, any passenger with the age of 18 and above in the car will be fined between NT$600 and NT$3,000. (Paragraph 8 of Article 35, Road Traffic Managemeng and Penalty Act)
  • A driver who obtains driver licenses according to Paragraph 5 of Article 67 drives the car without alcohol interlock device or failing to follow the regulations about using alcohol interlock device, shall be fined NT$6,000 to NT$12,000, the car shall be relocated and detained by the authorities. The aforementioned alcohol interlock device unlocked by another person, he/she shall be fined NT$6,000 to NT$12,000. (Paragraph 1 of Article 35-1, Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act).
  • Since March 1, 2020, drunk driving will be subject to stricter restrictions and penalties. People are urged not to drive after drinking. This article will amend and publish Article 35-1 and Article 67 of the Road Traffic Management Penalty Regulations on April 17, 2019. The new traffic system will be on the road. The relevant regulations on the aggravated punishment for recidivists of drunk driving and the installation of alcohol locks on vehicles are listed and explained, and the benefits are clear.
  • Don’t drink and drive; find a substitute driver, and get home safely.
Matters That Need Attention in Taiwan

Taiwan is a modern, democratic country that is ruled by law. Its laws are in line with those of most advanced countries. However, due to differences in historical conditions, social order, and special safety (such as transport) policy considerations, some local laws and other points that visitors should note are listed below

  • In Taiwan, the age of criminal liability is 14 years of age. (Article 18, Criminal Code of the R.O.C.)
  • Taiwan does not have legal red light districts. Prostitution is illegal. (Article 80, Social Order Maintenance Act)
  • Drugs (including marijuana), seeds to grow drugs, and guns are prohibited articles in Taiwan. The possession of such articles will lead to their confiscation, and the holder will also bear criminal liability. (Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act, Controlling Guns, Ammunition, and Knives Act)
  • Gambling is not legal in Taiwan. Gambling for money or property is forbidden everywhere within the country. (Article 266, Criminal Code)
  • Taiwan is a country where human rights are respected. If a person's liberty is infringed on in any way, and doubts arise regarding legality, the person can apply for a writ of Habeas Corpus directly to a court or through the arresting body to protect his/her right to liberty. The Notice of Right to Petition for Habeas Corpus Relief is available in nine languages (English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Thai, and Arabic. (Article 1, Habeas Corpus Act)
  • Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are prohibited on Mass Rapid Transit trains and in stations in Taiwan. (Article 50, Mass Rapid Transit Act)
  • When traveling, avoid taking pictures of military installations (pay attention to the posted signs); furthermore, to ensure flight safety, drones cannot be used in restricted areas near airports. (Article 118, Civil Aviation Act)
  • If mobile phones or credit cards are lost, please file a report at the local police station
  • In the event of passport loss, please report the loss to the Ministry of the Interior, National Immigration Agency (NIA) service station in each city/county (after office hours, report to the city/county NIA brigade)
  • A Mountain Entry Permit must be obtained in advance to enter restricted mountain areas
  • Smoking is completely prohibited in indoor public areas, indoor workplaces jointly used by three or more persons, public transportation vehicles, etc. (Articles 15 and 16 of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act)
  • The business hours of banks in the R.O.C. are as follows: Monday-Friday, 9:00-15:30, except national holidays
  • Human Trafficking Reporting Hotline: 02-23883095 (National Immigration Agency), 110 (Police Hotline), 1955 (Foreign Workers’ Free Hotline)
  • Foreign Affairs Police Service

 

 
Laws and Regulations:

Criminal Code of the Republic of China
Habeas Corpus Act
Social Order Maintenance Act
Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act
Controlling Guns, Ammunition, and Knives Act
Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act
Civil Aviation Act
Vital Area Regulations
Mass Rapid Transit Act
Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act

For more information:the foreigner service handbook in Taipei City or call the life consultation service for foreigners living in Taiwan at 0800-024-111