Taiwan launches digital nomad visa to boost tourism, economy
TAIPEI, TAIWAN — Taiwan is set to join the ranks of countries offering digital nomad visas, with plans to introduce a six-month visa program aimed at attracting global professionals.
National Development Council (NDC) Minister Paul Liu announced the initiative as part of a broader strategy to boost domestic tourism and the economy.
Targeting the growing digital nomad market
Liu highlighted the increasing prevalence of remote work following the COVID-19 pandemic, estimating that there are about 35 million digital nomads worldwide.
The NDC aims to attract 100,000 digital nomads to Taiwan, with a goal of retaining 10,000 as long-term residents.
This influx is expected to significantly impact the local economy and tourism sector.
Digital nomads, who work remotely using technology, will be allowed to stay in Taiwan for up to six months under the new visa policy.
The visas can be extended for an additional three months, totaling a maximum stay of six months.
Competing in the Asian digital nomad market
Taiwan’s move follows similar initiatives by neighboring countries.
Japan introduced a six-month digital nomad visa in March, while South Korea and Thailand have implemented their own programs with stays of up to one year and 180 days, respectively.
Liu sees an opportunity in Taiwan’s proximity to Japan, suggesting that Taiwan could attract digital nomads leaving Japan after their non-extendable six-month visa expires.
Implementation and future plans for Taiwan’s digital nomad visa
The digital nomad visa program does not require legislative amendments and could be implemented once approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Currently, digital nomads visiting Taiwan rely on visa-free entry or standard tourist visas valid for three months.
In addition to the digital nomad visa, the NDC is planning to introduce a “global elite visa” for high-earning foreign professionals, allowing them to obtain permanent residence after just one year in Taiwan.
This initiative is part of a larger goal to bring 120,000 foreign talents into Taiwan by 2028.