1. What countries offer citizenship for Taiwan passport holders by investment programs?

There are several countries that offer citizenship by investment programs to Taiwan passport holders, including:

1. St. Kitts and Nevis
2. Antigua and Barbuda
3. Dominica
4. Grenada
5. Saint Lucia
6. Malta
7. Cyprus

Please note that the requirements and investment amounts for these programs vary and it is important to research each option thoroughly before making a decision. Furthermore, it is recommended to seek professional advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant before applying for any citizenship by investment program.

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Taiwan?

As of November 2021, Taiwan does not have a specific law on dual citizenship. However, in certain cases, individuals may hold dual citizenship automatically or through naturalization.

Automatic dual citizenship may occur if a person is born to Taiwanese parents but obtains citizenship of another country through birth or adoption. In these cases, the individual will have both Taiwanese and foreign citizenship until they reach the age of 20, at which point they must choose to keep either Taiwanese or foreign citizenship.

Naturalized dual citizenship may be possible for foreign nationals who obtain Taiwanese citizenship through marriage or other means. These individuals must renounce their original nationality within one year of obtaining Taiwanese citizenship.

3. Is there an application process for obtaining dual citizenship in Taiwan?

There is no specific application process for obtaining dual citizenship in Taiwan. As mentioned above, automatic dual citizenship occurs when a person is born to Taiwanese parents but obtains citizenship of another country through birth or adoption.

For naturalized dual citizenship, individuals must go through the regular naturalization process and meet all the requirements set by the Nationality Act. This includes living in Taiwan for a certain period, having adequate financial stability and knowledge of Mandarin Chinese, and passing a national examination on laws and regulations related to Taiwan’s society and culture.

4. Can you renounce your Taiwanese citizenship while holding another nationality?

Under current laws, it is possible for nationals of Taiwan to renounce their Taiwanese nationality while holding another nationality. However, this can only be done after obtaining permission from the Ministry of Interior and meeting certain criteria such as having sufficient ties to the other country and having served in its armed forces (if applicable).

5. What are the benefits/drawbacks of holding dual citizenship in Taiwan?

The main benefit of holding dual citizenship in Taiwan is the ability to access rights and privileges associated with both Taiwanese and foreign nationalities. This may include easier travel between countries, being able to work or study without restrictions in both countries, and the ability to own property in both countries.

However, there may also be drawbacks to holding dual citizenship in Taiwan. For example, individuals may be subject to laws and obligations of both countries, such as paying taxes or serving in the military. Additionally, certain countries may not allow their citizens to hold dual citizenship, so individuals may need to renounce one of their nationalities if they wish to visit or live in those countries.

It is important for individuals to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before obtaining dual citizenship in Taiwan. It is also recommended to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice on your specific situation.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Taiwan?

The process of obtaining a second passport in Taiwan usually takes around 2-3 weeks, but it may vary depending on individual circumstances and the workload of the issuing authorities. It is recommended to apply for a second passport at least 2-3 months in advance to avoid any potential delays.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Taiwan?

According to Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency, there are some language and residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Taiwan.

To obtain a Taiwanese passport, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Be a citizen of the Republic of China (Taiwan) by birth.

2. Have been naturalized as a ROC national for at least 10 years and maintain household registration in Taiwan.

3. Be the spouse or unmarried child under 20 years old of a ROC national or Taiwan Eligible Person (TEP) who has acquired foreign citizenship prior to February 9, 2011 or have been naturalized as an ROC national for at least six years.

4. Have resided in Taiwan with your father, mother or spouse who was an ROC national at the time you were born; be acknowledged by your father who is an ROC national; and have obtained permanent residence in Taiwan for more than eight years.

Additionally, applicants must pass a language proficiency test administered by the National Immigration Agency if they do not meet any of these criteria and their native language is not Mandarin Chinese (Standard Chinese).

Applicants who do not meet the above criteria but hold special skills that are deemed necessary to support Taiwan’s economic development may also be considered for naturalization, but will still need to fulfill certain residency requirements.

It should be noted that maintaining residency in Taiwan may also be required after obtaining a second passport. Specific requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is recommended to contact the National Immigration Agency for more information.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Taiwan?

The cost of obtaining a second passport in Taiwan varies depending on the applicant’s personal circumstances and the specific requirements of their chosen citizenship program. It can range from a few thousand US dollars to tens of thousands of dollars for top-tier programs. Additionally, there may be additional fees for document preparation, legal assistance, and other related expenses. It is recommended to research and compare different programs to find the most cost-effective option.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Taiwan?

As of now, Taiwan’s citizenship by investment program only allows for the main applicant to obtain citizenship. Spouses and children can apply for permanent residency in Taiwan along with the main applicant, but they cannot obtain citizenship through the same program. It is possible that this may change in the future, but it is not currently an option.

7. Does Taiwan allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?

Yes, Taiwanese citizens holding a valid passport can travel to many popular destinations without a visa, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and most countries in Europe. However, it is important for Taiwanese citizens to check the visa requirements of each country before traveling as these policies can change at any time.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Taiwan?

Citizens with two passports in Taiwan are subject to the same taxation system as citizens with one passport. This means that they are required to pay taxes on their worldwide income, regardless of which passport they use for travel. Additionally, they must report all of their income and assets, regardless of which country they were earned or obtained in.

Taiwan also has a tax treaty with many countries, including the United States, which helps prevent double taxation for citizens with two passports. This means that if you are a citizen of both Taiwan and another country, you may be able to claim tax exemptions or credits for income earned in the other country.

It is important for citizens with two passports to comply with all tax laws and regulations in both Taiwan and any other countries where they hold citizenship. It is recommended to seek professional advice from a tax specialist or accountant familiar with international taxation when filing taxes in such cases.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Taiwan?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Taiwan. According to the Nationality Act, foreign investors can only apply for naturalization if their investment is related to sectors or industries that are deemed necessary for national development by the government. This could include areas such as technology, infrastructure, and tourism. Additionally, investments must be made within the permissible time frame and meet certain minimum investment requirements set by the government.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Taiwan?

No, individuals cannot apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Taiwan. Dual citizenship is not recognized in Taiwan, and Taiwanese citizens are required to renounce their citizenship before obtaining a second nationality.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Taiwan?

Citizens of China, Hong Kong and Macau may face restrictions when applying for a second passport in Taiwan. Other nationalities are generally permitted to apply. However, each individual case is subject to review by the National Immigration Agency (NIA) and approval is not guaranteed. It is important to consult with the NIA directly for specific guidelines and requirements for your particular situation.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Taiwan, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?

Yes, holding a second passport from Taiwan can provide several additional benefits, including:

1. Business opportunities: As Taiwan is an economic powerhouse, having a Taiwanese passport can open doors to various business opportunities within the country and in other countries that have strong trade relations with Taiwan.

2. Education opportunities: Students with a Taiwanese passport can benefit from low tuition fees and scholarships at top-ranked universities in Taiwan. This can also provide access to study and exchange programs in other countries.

3. Healthcare system: Holding a Taiwanese passport allows access to the country’s advanced healthcare system, which is ranked among the top 10 in the world by WHO. This includes affordable medical care and medications.

4. Visa-free travel: Taiwan’s passport ranks highly on the Global Passport Index, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to over 140 countries worldwide. This can greatly facilitate international travel for both personal and business purposes.

5. Dual nationality: Taiwan recognizes dual citizenship, so holders of a Taiwanese passport do not need to renounce their previous citizenship, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of two passports simultaneously.

6. Political stability and security: Holding a Taiwanese passport may offer peace of mind due to the country’s political stability and high standards of safety and security.

7. International recognition: Having a Taiwanese passport gives individuals recognition as citizens of a thriving democratic nation that respects human rights.

8. Tax benefits: Depending on your specific circumstances, holding a potentially tax-efficient second citizenship could lower your global tax burden by reducing income or capital gains taxes.

Overall, holding a second passport from Taiwan offers numerous advantages that can enhance both personal and professional opportunities for individuals.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Taiwan?

Yes, applicants must be at least 18 years old to obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Taiwan.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Taiwan?

The process of obtaining a second passport from Taiwan typically involves the following steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Taiwan only allows dual citizenship under limited circumstances, such as for certain professionals or individuals with special contributions to Taiwan. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements before proceeding.

2. Prepare required documents: You will need to gather a variety of documentation, such as proof of your Taiwanese citizenship and identification, as well as any evidence or qualifications that support your eligibility for dual citizenship.

3. Submit application: You can submit your application for a second passport at the Bureau of Consular Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taipei or at any overseas representative office.

4. Pay fees: There are various fees associated with obtaining a second passport from Taiwan, including application fees and consular service fees.

5. Attend an interview (if required): Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview to further verify your identity and eligibility for dual citizenship.

6. Wait for processing: Processing times vary depending on the location and current demand, but it generally takes around 1-2 months to receive a second passport from Taiwan.

7. Collect your new passport: Once your application has been approved, you will be notified to collect your new passport either in person or through mail (depending on where you applied).

It is important to note that obtaining a second passport is not guaranteed and the decision ultimately lies with the Taiwanese government. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs directly for specific guidance on how to proceed with your individual case.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Taiwan?

Yes, naturalized citizens of Taiwan can also apply for a second passport in Taiwan. They will need to provide their valid proof of citizenship and other required documents. It is recommended to consult with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest overseas office for specific application procedures and requirements.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Taiwan?

Yes, proof of financial stability is typically required when applying for residency and citizenship through an investor program in Taiwan. This may include providing bank statements, investment portfolios, or other evidence of substantial assets and income. The exact requirements may vary depending on the specific investor program being applied for.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Taiwan?

There are no special regulations or requirements for individuals with previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Taiwan. However, the National Immigration Agency reserves the right to inspect and reject any application that raises concerns about an individual’s eligibility. Additionally, certain countries may have restrictions on granting citizenship or issue travel documents to individuals with previous legal issues. It is recommended to consult with your local embassy or consulate for more information.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of Taiwan pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?

Possessing dual citizenship of Taiwan may pose complications when traveling between countries, as some foreign governments do not formally recognize dual citizenship and may require individuals to choose one nationality for entry into the country. This could lead to difficulties obtaining visas or entering certain countries while using a Taiwanese passport. Additionally, some countries may have restrictions on Taiwanese citizens holding dual citizenship and may require individuals to renounce their other nationality in order to enter the country. It is important for travelers with dual citizenship of Taiwan to research the specific requirements of each country they plan to visit before embarking on their trip.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in Taiwan?

It is possible to transfer residency status in certain cases, but it depends on the specific laws and regulations of both Taiwan and your new country. You should consult with immigration authorities in both countries to determine if this is feasible.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in Taiwan also apply for a second passport?

Yes, citizens of other countries living and working in Taiwan may also be eligible to apply for a second passport. This will depend on the laws and regulations of their home country and their own personal circumstances. They should consult with the relevant authorities in their home country to determine if they are eligible for a second passport and what steps they need to take to apply.