After the annual leave, major universities are gradually starting their classes. As a result, there is a surge in residency and residency extension applications from overseas students coming to study in Taiwan. Commissioner Chen Chia-ming from the National Immigration Agency was invited by Hsing-Wu University on February 23rd to educate and inform foreign students about the relevant regulations and common issues regarding residency and extensions in Taiwan.
Apart from handling academic matters, foreign students must be aware that visas or residency permits are crucial documents for legal stay or residence in Taiwan. With the comprehensive implementation of the new immigration law on March 1st, Commissioner Chen has compiled essential legal information for foreign students residing in Taiwan, ensuring they understand their rights and can pursue their studies and life in Taiwan with peace of mind.
Commissioner Chen initially explained the operation of the online application system for residency permits for foreign students, including the procedures for initial application, extension, and changes in information. Key points to note under the new law include a new fee of NT$300 for extending stay visas, changing the application period for converting entry visas to residency permits from 15 days to 30 days from the day of entry, and allowing residency extension applications to be submitted up to 3 months before the expiration date, with the option to apply for residency periods ranging from 1 to 3 years based on the duration of the student's academic enrollment. Furthermore, graduates seeking employment in Taiwan can apply for a one-year extension, with the possibility of an additional year if necessary.
Starting from March 1st 2024, penalties for overstaying or illegal residency for foreign students will be increased, ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$50,000. Additionally, any changes in residency address must be reported to the immigration authorities within 30 days of the occurrence, with penalties ranging from NT$2,000 to NT$10,000 for late applications. Commissioner Chen also emphasized the importance of keeping track of residency expiration dates, as overdue stays not only incur high fines but also pose a risk of deportation, significantly impacting the student's right to education.
For foreign students in Taiwan, part-time work is a common practice to cover tuition and living expenses. However, those intending to work must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor, with the maximum validity period being 6 months. Renewal applications can be submitted before the expiration date, and the weekly work hours are limited to 20. There are no restrictions on working hours during semester breaks. Engaging in unauthorized work can result in fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000 and may lead to forced deportation.