Job Discussion Forums

[Brobert2]

Hi, this is my first post on the Taiwan board, I've been offered a job in Taiwan for November, and I'm working on the necessary paperwork.

I'm concerned with the required health certificate, as my health insurance has run out and it asks for chest x-rays, blood work and a skin test for leprosy, which don't sound cheap at all.

Has anyone had these done in the US and has an idea how much they will cost? I'd like to have an idea how deep in the hole these tests are going to run me.

[markholmes]

You have to have it done in Taiwan as far as I know. I can't remember how much it was, but I don't remember it being expensive. I would think less than US$50. Possible half that.

[Dr_Zoidberg]

He's right. And not only does it have to be done in Taiwan, not every hospital is authorized to do it.

The costs may vary from one hospital to the next, but mine has always cost between 1000 - 1200 NT

The health check consists of recording height and weight, checking eyesight and colour blindness, checking blood pressure, sounding your heart and chest. The blood test is to check for communicable diseases.

[Taylor]

Hi Brobert2,

The easy way is to arrive in Taiwan on a 60-day (or 90-day?) visitor visa.

In all my years of teaching in Taiwan, I can only recall one person who actually entered Taiwan with an employment visa to teach English. Generally speaking, "everyone" uses a visitor's visa at first, and then the employer will apply for a work visa on your behalf.

Please let us know if you have more questions!

Taylor
Texas/Kaohsiung

[Brobert2]

My employer said entering on a visitor's visa would be possible, but that I would need to have a return flight within the 60 days. I'd rather not spend the money on a flight I know I'm not going to use. Any thoughts on this?

[markholmes]

Get a flight to Hong Kong that stops in Taipei. It doesn't have to be return, just onwards.