[Due to the Amendment to the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals — International Graduates May Work Freely During the Two-Year Post-Graduation Residency Starting January 1, 2026]

A.  Starting January 1, 2026, overseas chinese students and international students (collectively referred to as “graduates” below) who have obtained an associate degree or higher in Taiwan may apply to extend their residency for one year after graduation, and—if necessary—apply once more for an additional one-year extension, for a maximum extension period of two years. During this two-year period, graduates may work freely without applying for a separate work permit, including full-time, part-time, or internship positions. After this period expires, graduates must transition to formal employment in Taiwan under one of the following pathways, in accordance with regulations on foreign professionals:

1. The new Scoring System for Overseas Compatriot students and international students

2. Application under the regulations for Foreign Professionals engaging in Specialized or Technical Work

B. According to the amended Article 18 of the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals, foreign professionals or foreign specialist professionals who have obtained an associate degree or higher in Taiwan may have their legal period of residence in Taiwan during study counted toward part of the required duration for permanent residency, as follows:

1. Foreign professional: A doctoral degree obtained counts as three years, a master’s degree counts as two years, and a bachelor’s or associate degree counts as one year. The four may not be aggregated.
2. Foreign specialist professional: A doctoral degree obtained counts as two years, a master’s degree counts as one year. The two may not be aggregated.

More Information: Taiwan’s 2026 Vision: New Rules, New Opportunities for Global Talent ; Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals