Job Discussion Forums

[arnavah]

Hi everyone.

I'll likely be coming to Taiwan for my first time in late May/early June, so I've been doing lots of reading on these boards in preparation. Thanks for all the informative posts.

One question's nagging me. Some posters have advised that it's likely newbies to Taiwan will change jobs a few times before settling into one they like. In that scenario, how does it affect a working visa? If my first employer helps me to change my tourist visa to a working visa, is it it possible to up and leave for a different job and a different employer? Or would I have to exit the country and enter on a new tourist visa and go through the working visa application again?

The main reason I'm asking is because I'd like to know how choosy I should be about my first job. Of course I'd like to start working as soon as possible, but would also like to minimize costs and bureaucratic hassles.

[dangerousapple]

Be choosy. You want to have as good a fit as possible. The school that hires you is also going to be very choosy, as it is expensive to train a teacher and pay for the paperwork.

[babar6789]

Yeah if you're fired or quit then your employer will cancel your work permit. You then have 7 days to leave the country or you'll be illegal and face deportation and/or a fine.

[arnavah]

thanks. that's very clear. 'nuff said.

[craigzy]

[babar6789]

I was told 7 days at the end of my contract in November last year. I know it's subject to change on the whim of the Taiwanese government.

[CWanders]

It was 14 days in August. It was described to me as a matter of "processing time," and that you were still "in status" (visa-wise) for 14 days after your employer handed in the contract termination form.