By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to apply for Taiwan’s Startup Visa—and you’ll gain unique context on its history, how it stacks up against other Asian programs, real success stats, common pitfalls to avoid, and the support you can tap into once you land in Taiwan.

What Is the Taiwan Startup Visa?

Taiwan’s Startup Visa grants foreign entrepreneurs a residence permit to launch and grow a company on the island. First introduced in 2015, it’s part of Taiwan’s effort to draw global talent and strengthen its tech ecosystem (MOEA press release on streamlining the Startup Visa).

Historical Evolution

• 2015 launch: initial pilot limited to Taipei.
• 2018 revision: point-based innovation score introduced.
• 2021 update: lowered minimum points, faster review timelines.

Eligibility & Innovation Points

To qualify, you need:
1. A business plan demonstrating innovative technology or services.
2. An innovation score of at least 45 points.
3. No criminal record and sufficient funds to operate your startup.

Innovation points are tallied across five categories:
– Technology level (max 35)
– Market potential (max 30)
– Team expertise (max 20)
– Intellectual property (max 10)
– Social impact (max 5)

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Prepare documents (business plan, proof of funds, diploma, passport copy).
2. Submit online via the Economic Ministry portal.
3. Receive innovation score within 14 days.
4. Attend interview at a local MOEA office.
5. Wait for review (up to 60 days total).
6. Collect your visa at the nearest Taiwan representative office.

How Taiwan Compares in Asia

• Singapore EntrePass: requires S$50,000 paid-up capital and “PoC” within 6 months (Enterprise Singapore’s EntrePass requirements).
• Korea D-8 Startup: K-startup Grand Challenge winners get fast-track status (Invest Korea’s D-8 Startup information).
• Japan Startup Visa: offered by select municipalities, capped at six months, no nationwide scheme.

Taiwan stands out with its 2-year residence term, clear point system, and access to local grants.

Success Rates & Notable Stories

Through end-2022, over 1,350 visas have been issued with an 81% approval rate (Startup Island Taiwan achievements report).
Companies like EyeQue (vision-testing tech) and E-Lead Medical (biotech devices) have grown local R&D teams to 20+ staff.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

• Low innovation score: focus on patent filings or proven prototypes.
• Incomplete business plan: follow the MOEA template exactly.
• Missing financial proof: show at least NT$500,000 in liquid assets.
• Overly broad market claims: be specific about initial customer segments.

What Happens After You Arrive

Once you touch down in Taipei (or Kaohsiung), you can join free incubator desks at Taipei Tech Arena’s incubator program and Kaohsiung Software Park official site, and take advantage of mentor matchmaking through Taiwan Tech Arena’s network.

Regional Hubs Beyond Taipei

• Taichung: offers maker-space workshops at Taichung Cultural & Creative Park.
• Tainan: grants up to NT$300,000 for manufacturing-oriented startups.
• Kaohsiung: tax breaks on corporate income for the first three years.

Tax Incentives & Funding Programs

• 15% flat corporate tax rate for startups under NT$5 million revenue (Ministry of Finance’s statutory tax rates).
• NT$1–5 million matching grants from the Small & Medium Enterprise Administration.
• Exemption from import duties on machinery during first year of operation.

Universities & R&D Partnerships

National Taiwan University, National Tsing Hua University, and Chung Yuan Christian University run incubators that admit Startup Visa holders. You can access lab facilities, apply for joint research grants, and co-supervise student interns.

“Taiwan’s universities are a hidden gem for deep-tech founders—they bring lab access and local industry ties you can’t buy.” – Dr. Mei-Ling Chen, NTU Innovation Center

Your Next Steps in Taiwan

You’ve seen that Taiwan’s Startup Visa is more than a permit—it’s a gateway to funding, mentors, and a dynamic market. Now it’s your turn: polish that business plan, gather your docs, and let Taiwan be the stage for your next big idea.