2008-06-02
INCENTIVES FOR FOR-EIGN PROFESSIONALS
The Executive Yuan approved the Friendly Measures to Attract Foreign Professionals to Work in Taiwan on June 27, 2007. These measures provide tax breaks and relax work permit requirements for foreign executives and companies recruiting or employing foreign professionals. The regulations were prompted by the anticipated demand for over 34,000 skilled workers in major high-tech sectors such as information technology, biotechnology and semiconductors.
Under the new measures, income tax withholding rates would be simplified for foreign executives who do not reside more than 183 days in Taiwan. For those staying more than 183 days, the scope of deductible business expenses was expanded to include moving expenses, utilities, rent and travel costs for the individual as well as dependents.
Further incentives include:
- Assistance for dependent chil-dren to enroll in school,
- Expansion of land available to and rent reduction for certain foreign schools in Taiwan, and
- More relaxed entry permits for visiting relatives.