TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Labor (MOL) announced on Monday (Dec. 18) relaxations to the "Amendment of Regulations on the Work Permit and Administration of the Foreign Professionals Engaging in Arts and Performing Arts," easing the entry and qualification standards for foreign professionals such as performers, writers, and painters, with particular adjustments for those from Hong Kong and Macau.
These amendments will take effect beginning Wednesday (Dec. 20).
The ministry's revisions include an acceptance of recommendations or proof from significant international organizations like the United Nations for Hong Kong and Macau residents who cannot obtain official documents.
The scope of artistic work for foreign professionals is categorized into four main types: performing and visual arts, publishing, film and broadcasting, including popular music, as well as crafts.
Especially for the publishing sector, the qualification standards have been relaxed to accommodate individuals with at least five years of publishing experience who possess originality and exceptional expression.
Furthermore, in the crafts category, teaching qualification standards have been expanded from associate professor level to also include assistant professors or those with equivalent qualifications.
Prior to these changes, foreign artists seeking work in Taiwan had to undergo a process of application through an employer as per the "Employment Service Act" or independently if they met the qualifications.
As of the end of October 2023, there were 245 freelance artists holding valid employment permits.
