Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)
How to Apply for Alien Resident Card (ARC)
Introduction
The Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is your official residence card in Taiwan. It serves as both your legal proof of residency and a primary form of local identification. With an ARC, you can:
Legally reside in Taiwan for the duration of your degree program
Open a bank account, sign rental contracts, and apply for mobile phone plans
Register for National Health Insurance (NHI) once eligible
All Tzu Chi University international students enrolled in degree programs must apply for an ARC within 30 days of entering Taiwan on a Resident Visa.
Students who initially entered on a Visitor Visa must first change to a Resident Visa, then apply for an ARC.
Step-by-Step: ARC Application
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
The following documents are typically required (exact requirements may vary by case):
Passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of application)
Resident Visa (in passport or approval notice if converted in Taiwan)
Tzu Chi University enrollment/registration certificate
Proof of Taiwan address (e.g., rental contract or dormitory confirmation letter)
One recent passport-size photo (45×35 mm, white background)
ARC application fee (NT$1,000 per year of validity)
Always check the latest requirements on the National Immigration Agency (NIA) website.
Step 2: Apply Online
Go to the NIA Student ARC Portal: https://coa.immigration.gov.tw/coa-frontend/student/entry
Create an account and log in.
Select the applicable service: New Application, Extension, or Change of Information.
Upload the required documents and photo.
Complete the online payment as directed by the system.
Step 3: Receive Your ARC
After submission, NIA will review your case.
Monitor your application status and follow any instructions provided by the NIA.
In most cases, you will be notified when your ARC card is ready for collection at the designated NIA Service Center.
Deadlines & Reminders
Within 30 days: Apply for ARC after entering Taiwan with a Resident Visa.
Before expiry: Renew your ARC before it expires; failure to renew on time may result in fines or legal penalties.
Address changes: Report within 30 days if you move to a new residence.
Graduation or withdrawal: Your ARC validity will be reduced accordingly; please contact the NIA directly regarding options for extending your stay
Helpful Tips for TCU Students
Keep a digital copy of your ARC card in case the physical card is lost or misplaced.
Renew your ARC at least 30 days before expiry to avoid issues with your studies, insurance, or travel.
Upon receiving your ARC, you may be eligible to enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) program after residing in Taiwan continuously for at least six months continuously.