Taiwan has expanded opportunities for international graduates by extending post-graduation stay options to a generous two-year period, aiming to address labour shortages and boost economic growth. This policy change aligns with Taiwan's commitment to attracting and retaining skilled talents in various sectors.

Extended Stay for Foreign University Students in Taiwan

To tackle labour shortages across various industries, the government has implemented a policy extension that allows international students to stay longer after they complete their studies. This move will attract talented individuals and contribute to the nation's economic growth.

Reasons for the policy change:

• Ageing population: Taiwan's population is rapidly ageing, leading to a decline in the workforce available for various sectors.

• Specific industry needs: Industries like manufacturing, retail, hospitality, semiconductors, food services, and construction face acute labour shortages.

• Attracting skilled talent: The extended stay policy aims to attract graduates with relevant skills and qualifications to fill these gaps.

Economic Growth and Projected Increase in Employment

The extended stay policy is not just about filling empty positions; it's also seen as a catalyst for economic growth in Taiwan. Here's how:

• Increased workforce: More skilled workers entering the job market can boost productivity and innovation across various sectors.

• Knowledge transfer: International graduates bring fresh perspectives and expertise, enriching the local talent pool.

• Entrepreneurial potential: Some graduates choose to stay and start their businesses, further contributing to the economy.

Projections and data:

• National Immigration Agency: Extending the stay limit to 2 years "would quickly solve the labour shortage issue."

• 104 Job Bank: Taiwan faces worker shortages in manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and other key industries.

• Overseas Community Affairs Council: 86% of international students in Taiwan are open to seeking work on the island after graduation.

• National Development Council: Taiwan aims to attract 400,000 international white-collar workers by 2032, with half expected to come through universities.

Fight Against Labour Shortage and Policy Evolution

This study investigates the ongoing battle against labour shortages, examining the dynamic policy evolution undertaken to address workforce challenges and ensure sustainable economic growth.

- Taiwan needs more skilled manufacturing, semiconductors, hospitality, and construction workers.

- The former regulation allowed international graduates only 6-12 months to search for jobs in Taiwan post-graduation legally. 

- The new policy expands the job-seekingperiod to up to 3 years to tap into graduate talent and ease labour deficits.

International Student Preferences and Taiwan's Recruitment Goals

This exploration delves into the alignment between the preferences of international students and Taiwan's strategic recruitment objectives, shedding light on the factors influencing student choices and the nation's efforts to attract diverse talents.

- 86% of international students in Taiwan are willing to work there after graduating based on surveys.

- Taiwan aims to attract 400,000 foreign professionals, predominantly white-collar workers, by 2032 to address the talent crunch.

- Half of these workers are expected to enter Taiwanese universities as international students transition to employees. 

- Extending international graduate stay periods bolsters a vital talent pipeline, helping fulfil Taiwan's recruiting goals over the next decade.

Demographics and Trends in Taiwan's Foreign Student Population

Examining the landscape of Taiwan's education, this analysis delves into the demographics and evolving trends within the country's foreign student population, offering insights into the dynamic nature of international students' presence in Taiwanese institutions.

- Taiwan's foreign student population hit 130,000 in 2019, a record high partly fueled by the New Southbound Policy improving regional academic exchanges. 

- The top source countries are ASEAN states like Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and South Asian countries like India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

- Strengthening economic connectivity with 18 Southeast and South Asian countries underpins the surge in students from this region studying in Taiwan.

- The COVID-19 pandemic decreased the number of foreign students in 2021 and 2022 due to global mobility restrictions. 

- As the pandemic eases, enrollment of overseas students is expected to recover and continue rising over the long term to support Taiwan’s policy goals.

- Extending post-study work rights aims to improve talentretention among this critical pool of graduates familiar with Taiwan's economy and society.

FAQS

What is Taiwan's new policy for international student graduates?

Taiwan has introduced a new "2-year job search visa" that enables international students who have graduated from Taiwanese universities to stay for up to two years after graduation to seek employment opportunities. 

What are the eligibility criteria for this 2-year visa?

To be eligible, international graduates must have completed and passed a bachelor’s degree program or higher from an approved Taiwanese university. Degree programs must be for a continuous period of at least 4 years.

What kind of jobs can students apply for with the new visa?

The visa allows applying for a wide range of jobs across sectors in Taiwan. There is no restriction on the type of job or employer for the 2-year post-study work visa.

Can graduates apply for permanent residency after the 2-year stay?

International graduates who find qualified employment in Taiwan during their 2-year stay may apply for permanent residency under certain categories, subject to meeting specific criteria.

Does the new policy replace the existing 1-year job search visa?

No, the original 1-year job search visa policy remains in place. The new 2-year visa provides enhanced post-study work rights as an additional option to retain international talent.