TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced on Tuesday (Dec. 19) that the approval rate for Hong Kong residents applying for residence permits in Taiwan has exceeded 97%, with nearly 75% of those eligible obtaining permanent residency permits.
According to the statistics from the National Immigration Agency, under the Ministry of the Interior, from 2018 to the end of October 2023, nearly 46,564 Hong Kong residents have acquired residence permits in Taiwan, while 6,196 permits have been granted to Macau residents over the past five years.
In response to recent reports suggesting stricter approval for Hong Kong immigrants, MAC official Lu Chang-shui remarked that immigration is a significant life decision, and the government welcomes and values everyone who aspires to settle and develop a life in Taiwan.
Lu emphasized that the rigorous review of applications aims to safeguard Taiwan's systems and environment, which are rooted in freedom, democracy, and openness, ensuring that all new residents can establish a secure life on the island.
Additionally, Lu mentioned that the government continues to provide assistance and guidance to applicants whose settlement applications are still under observation and have not yet been approved, to help rectify and complete their documentation.
