Taiwan Updates Residency Designations for South Koreans
Starting March 1, 2026, Taiwan will update its immigration system to label South Korea as 'South Korea' rather than 'Korea' on official documents. This change will primarily affect South Korean nationals holding Alien Resident Certificates (ARC) and other official residency permits in Taiwan.
Taiwan Updates Residency Designations for South Koreans
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently updated the official designation for South Korean nationals on residency documents. Starting March 1, Alien Resident Certificates (ARCs) issued to South Koreans now list their nationality as "South Korea" rather than the previous "Republic of Korea."
The change is a reciprocal response to South Korea’s e-arrival card system, which identifies Taiwan as "China (Taiwan)." Taiwanese officials have set a March 31 deadline for South Korea to correct its labeling. If the issue remains unresolved, Taiwan may further adjust its own e-arrival systems to label South Korea as "Korea (South)."
Who is affected
This update primarily impacts South Korean expats, digital nomads, and long-term residents living in Taiwan.
- New applicants and those renewing their ARCs will receive the updated designation automatically.
- Current ARC holders do not need to take any action; existing cards remain valid until their original expiration date.
- Short-term tourists and visitors are currently unaffected, as the change is limited to residency permits and government-issued certificates.
What to do
There are no additional fees or administrative hurdles for South Korean remote workers. The National Immigration Agency is implementing the change through its standard processing channels. If you are a South Korean national preparing for a residency renewal, your new card will simply reflect the updated terminology.
Keep an eye on nomad news for further updates, as the government continues to monitor South Korea's response ahead of the April deadline.
Read our full Taiwan guide for the complete picture.