he National Immigration Agency responded to a complaint from a foreign couple who had been living in Taiwan for more than ten years, claiming that because of Taiwan's right of blood policy, their children were still considered foreigners and needed an ARC to stay here after turning eighteen. The agency stated that children of foreigners holding a residence certificate or permanent residence certificate who were born in Taiwan can continue to reside in Taiwan after a certain period of residence, even if they are older than eighteen. They can then apply for permanent residency or directly become citizens of Taiwan if they are accepted as senior professionals.
According to the NIA, foreign nationals with an Alien Resident Certificate or Permanent Residence Certificate who have resided in Taiwan for more than ten years (more than 183 days annually) and whose children were born there are still eligible to petition for an extension of residency after reaching eighteen. It may take up to six years. During that period, you may apply for permanent residency in Taiwan if you find employment and your average monthly income from the previous year exceeds twice the minimum wage or if you receive the necessary certifications in Taiwan.
Reminder from the NIA: After they become adults, foreign children born in Taiwan are allowed to stay in Taiwan.Photo provided by National Immigration Agency
The National Immigration Agency went on to say that in order to support the government's talent retention and recruitment strategy, minor children of foreign "senior professionals" who are eligible for direct naturalization as Taiwanese citizens may also apply at the same time if they are also foreign professionals with specific talent and are allowed to live permanently. Little children who have lived for a set amount of time (three to five years) may also apply for permanent residency. A foreigner who is granted permanent residency will not lose that status just because he has attained maturity; rather, unless there are illegal circumstances, his permanent residence visa will be valid indefinitely.
