Taiwan's authorities have corrected some points in the “Immigration Law”. They concern the residence of foreigners on the island and obtaining permanent residency and a residence permit. 

The new rules provide the following opportunities:

  • Spouses, children under the age of 18, and disabled children of any age who are family members of an investor or a highly qualified foreigner can obtain permanent residency (APRC).
  • Permanent residency applicants will be able to arrange overseas trips more freely and frequently—whereas previously they were required to stay in Taiwan for strictly 183 days per year, now those 183 days of residency can be spread over as many as 5 years.
  • Foreigners with a valid passport with/without a visa or a valid travel document as well as a permit to stay in Taiwan will be able to apply for a residence permit (ARC) within 30 days (instead of 15 days) after arrival.

Also, Taiwan has tightened its measures for foreigners who violate the established rules. For example, previously, for overstaying visas, people had to pay a fine of $65, and now they have to pay $325; and those who violate the conditions permanently, will be banned from entering the country for 7 years (previously this period was equal to 3 years).