Taiwan offers pathways to residency and citizenship through investment or extended residency. The Significant Investment pathway provides permanent residency without a physical presence requirement, making it attractive for investors.
Citizenship Pathways
Permanent Residency for Significant Investment
Cost: NTD15,000,000 (approx. $460,000) or NTD30,000,000 (approx. $920,000)
Timeline: 3.0 years
Presence Required: None required
Invest NTD15,000,000 in a business creating 5 jobs or NTD30,000,000 in government bonds for 3 years. This pathway offers permanent residency without a physical presence requirement.
Resident Visa for Investment
Cost: $200,000 investment
Timeline: 5.0 years
Presence Required: 183 days/year
Invest $200,000 in an active business or investment fund. After 5 years of continuous residency with 183 days/year physical presence, applicants can apply for permanent residency. Naturalization is possible after meeting further requirements.
Naturalization (Standard)
Cost: ~$100 in fees
Timeline: 5.0 years
Presence Required: Must live there (183 days/year)
Standard naturalization requires 5 years of continuous legal residency, physical presence of at least 183 days/year, financial stability, no criminal record, and passing a Mandarin language and civics exam. Dual citizenship is generally allowed.
Step-by-Step Process
Permanent Residency for Significant Investment
: Prepare investment funds (NTD15M for business/5 jobs or NTD30M for bonds).
— 1-3 months — NTD15,000,000 or NTD30,000,000
: Submit investment plan and apply for an investment visa.
— 2-4 months — Varies (application fees)
: Execute investment (establish business/create jobs or purchase bonds).
— Ongoing for 3 years — Investment capital
: Maintain investment for 3 years and apply for Permanent Residency.
— After 3 years — Application fees (approx. $100)
Pros & Cons
Advantages
High quality of life and healthcare
Strong economy and technological hub
Relatively low crime rate
Dual citizenship generally allowed for naturalization
No physical presence for Significant Investment PR
Challenges
High cost for investment pathways
Mandarin language/civics exam for naturalization
Complex application process
Geopolitical tensions with China
Requirements
Passport copy — Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Police clearance certificate — From home country and any country resided in for over 6 months.
Proof of funds — Bank statements or financial records demonstrating investment capital.
Business plan (if applicable) — Detailed plan for the business creating 5 jobs.
Medical examination report — From a designated hospital in Taiwan.
Tax System
System: worldwide
Taiwan operates on a worldwide tax system for residents. New residents are taxed on their global income after establishing tax residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dual citizenship allowed in Taiwan?
Yes, dual citizenship is generally allowed for naturalized citizens, but specific rules apply.
What is the minimum investment for PR without presence?
NTD15,000,000 (approx. $460,000) in a business creating 5 jobs or NTD30,000,000 in bonds.
How long does it take to get PR via investment?
Approximately 3 years after the investment is made and maintained.