Job Discussion Forums

mscoop101285 · Joined: 10 Jan 2011 Posts: 3

I am thinking of teaching English in Kaohsiung, Taiwan after 2 years in Seoul, Korea. I would not be available until summer 2011 when my contract finishes here. I have a few questions. How will the tax situation work? If I arrive in August, will I not qualify for any type of refunds on the 20 percent tax? Also, when would my 6 percent tax deduction start if I commit to a 1 year contract starting in August, 2011? I will appreciate any advice by anyone who has been in this situation. Thank you.

JDB · Joined: 06 Sep 2010 Posts: 13

First, it's 18% tax. You get taxed at 18% tax for the first 186 days of the year you are in Taiwan, then you are taxed at 6% for the remainder of the year. You can get a refund on some of that money. This repeats every year. If you start in August 2011 and work for 1 year you will pay 18% tax for the entire time except July 2012. Unless your employer is dishonest when declaring to the government how much you make, which is very common...

mscoop101285 · Joined: 10 Jan 2011 Posts: 3

ohh ok thank you. It seems August is the worst possible time to arrive when dealing with the tax situation (unless i get a significant portion back)?

Pretentious Parrot · Joined: 04 Oct 2010 Posts: 17

I would strongly suggest you move to Taipei if you want a better chance at actually securing a decent job (one that will provide you with 14 or more hours so you can get a work permit) in Kaohsiung. The job market is already flooded with teachers and lots of schools are combining classes and cutting hours. There are a lot more jobs available in Taipei.