Job Hunting in Taiwan: 104, Work Permits, and Resume Norms
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The short answer
Taiwan's job market runs on one platform — 104人力銀行 (104.com.tw). Everything else is a side channel. Here is the newcomer's playbook.
The platforms
- 104人力銀行 — the default. Create a profile, upload a Chinese resume, and start applying. Most employers expect applications through 104's built-in system, not email.
- Yourator — startups and tech companies; more English-friendly, better for product/design/engineering roles.
- CakeResume — popular with tech and design talent; lets you build a visual resume site.
- LinkedIn — used by multinationals and for senior roles, but far less central than in the US.
Work permits for foreigners
You cannot just start working. The general routes:
- Employer-sponsored work permit: your employer applies to the Ministry of Labor (勞動部) on your behalf. This is the standard path for full-time hires.
- Employment Gold Card (就業金卡): for qualifying professionals (salary, skills, or achievements above set thresholds). It bundles work permit, residence, and re-entry in one 1–3 year card — no employer sponsorship needed. Details at the official portal.
- Spouses of citizens / permanent residents: open work rights, no separate permit needed.
Start the permit conversation in your first interview round — employers familiar with hiring foreigners will know the process; smaller companies may need you to walk them through it.
Chinese resume norms
- A 自傳 (autobiography/personal statement) is still expected by many traditional companies: 500–1,000 words covering background, motivation, and strengths. Keep it structured, not literary.
- Photo: including a professional headshot is normal in Taiwan (unlike the US). Use a clean, neutral photo.
- Language: a Chinese resume opens far more doors than an English-only one. If your Chinese is limited, lead with a Chinese summary and keep details in English where needed.
- Salary expectations (期望待遇): 104 applications usually require a number or range. Research market rates on 104's salary tools first — lowballing signals you don't know the market.
Interview culture
- Punctuality is non-negotiable. Arrive 10 minutes early; being on time is the bare minimum.
- Humility reads well. Confident but 謙虛 (modest) beats aggressive self-promotion in most Taiwanese workplaces.
- Ask about overtime (加班) culture directly — norms vary wildly between traditional companies and startups. Ask how the team actually works, not what the handbook says.
- Follow up with a brief thank-you message within 24 hours.
- Notice periods are typically 10–30 days depending on tenure; fixed-term contracts are common for foreigners.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need fluent Mandarin?
For local companies, yes — business Mandarin is usually required. Multinationals, tech startups, and English-teaching roles are the main exceptions.
What salary should a foreign engineer expect in Taipei?
It varies enormously by seniority and company type. Check 104's published salary bands for your role rather than converting from your home country's pay — Taipei tech salaries are lower than the US but the cost of living is too.
Can I freelance on a Gold Card?
Yes — the Gold Card is not tied to an employer, so freelance and contract work is permitted.
Sources
- Employment Gold Card official portal (eligibility and application): https://goldcard.nat.gov.tw
- Ministry of Labor work permit information for foreign professionals: https://www.mol.gov.tw
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