Taiwan’s Digital Nomad Visa: Validity Extended to Two Years

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Taiwan continues its immigration policy reforms, aiming to attract skilled professionals and strengthen its status as a desirable hub for remote work in Asia. The Executive Yuan has approved an extension of the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) validity to two years, reports IMI Daily.

Since its launch in early 2024, the visa initially allowed a three-month stay, which could then be extended for another three months. The new two-year option is part of a broader strategy aimed at attracting global talent and addressing the shortage of 350,000 skilled professionals Taiwan anticipates by 2028. Authorities expect the reform will help draw around 100,000 digital nomads and retain at least 10,000 of them as long-term residents.

Siren Chen, Head of Research and Development at Globevisa, notes that the previous six-month limit was too short for the Asian market. In her view, the extension underlines Taiwan’s ambition to become a regional leader in attracting highly skilled talent and a top destination for remote workers.

Official statistics on applications have not been disclosed. However, Chen suggests that the decision to revise the visa’s duration may have been prompted by insufficient demand for the original format. Moreover, the changes go beyond just the extension and are part of a comprehensive reform package approved by the Executive Yuan to simplify relocation for foreign professionals.

One key reform is the relaxation of work experience requirements. Previously, exemption from the two-year work experience condition was granted only to graduates of the world’s top 500 universities. Now, this benefit extends to graduates of the top 1,000 universities. In addition, professionals graduating from the world’s top 200 universities will be allowed to enter Taiwan without a formal job offer, provided they obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Labor. Priority is given to candidates from technology and creative industries.

The government has also introduced tax incentives for foreign professionals for the first time. Applicants earning more than NT$3 million annually (approximately US$102,000) may qualify for a 50% tax deduction for up to five years. Conditions include engaging in professional activity, residing in Taiwan for at least 183 days per calendar year, and not having been a tax resident of Taiwan in the preceding five years.

These reforms have been approved by the executive branch but are not yet in force. Implementation requires further legislative procedures, including committee reviews, public consultations, and a final vote in the Legislative Yuan.

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), by 2024, more than 60 countries had introduced visa programs for digital nomads. This is a response to growing demand from remote workers eager to combine work and extended stays abroad. The UNWTO emphasizes that such visas enable governments to stimulate the economy without integrating newcomers into the local labor market.

The most common validity for such visas is one year, with the possibility of extending for another 12 months. While some countries offer more flexible conditions, the one-year model remains the global standard. Against this backdrop, Taiwan’s two-year option looks especially attractive.

In most cases, applicants must work for a foreign employer or manage projects for overseas clients. Countries also typically set minimum income thresholds—usually ranging from US$2,000 to US$5,000 per month. This ensures that applicants remain financially independent and do not rely on local assistance or seek local employment.

The UNWTO also notes the tax implications of long stays. In many countries, foreigners staying more than 183 days per year may be deemed tax residents, requiring them to declare and pay tax on their global income. Such rules mean applicants must carefully plan their tax status and potential liabilities.

See also:

New Digital Nomad Visa in Kazakhstan: A Fast-Track to Permanent Residence for IT Professionals

How to Become a Digital Nomad in Italy

Digital Nomads in Portugal

Cyprus’ New Digital Nomad Visa: Conditions, Advantages, and Limitations

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa – How to Get It