This article addresses common questions faced by individuals and businesses from China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan) regarding overseas employment, investment, and visa applications, providing detailed answers to facilitate informed decision-making.

1. Retirement Benefits: Taiwan Labor Pension Withdrawal Rules

When can participants of Taiwan's new labor pension system withdraw their pensions? Is company assistance required for the application?

Laborers may withdraw their new system pension upon reaching 60 years of age. No company assistance is required—individuals may apply independently.

2. Analysis of Malaysian Visa Programs

Malaysia My Second Home Program (MM2H)

What is the validity period of MM2H visas?

Validity varies by MM2H tier. The Platinum tier offers renewable 20-year visas.

Malaysia Premium Visa Program (PVIP)

What is the validity period of PVIP visas?

PVIP visas are valid for 20 years and may be renewed every 20 years.

Malaysia Work Visa

How can foreign nationals apply for Malaysian work visas?

Foreign nationals cannot apply directly. Applications must be submitted by Malaysian companies intending to employ foreign workers.

3. Key Considerations for Employment Relationships in China

What obligations do companies have when establishing employment relationships?

Companies must execute written employment contracts and comply with legal requirements for social insurance and housing provident fund contributions, as stipulated by China's Labor Contract Law and Social Insurance Law.

4. APEC Business Travel Card Explained

Which economies participate in the APEC Business Travel Card program?

All 21 APEC member economies participate, including: China, Hong Kong, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

5. Guide to Taiwan Employment Visas

Job Search Visa

What is a Job Search Visa?

This visa permits qualified foreign professionals to reside legally in Taiwan while seeking employment. Applications are submitted to Taiwan's economic and cultural offices.

Work Visa (Type 1)

Can domestic companies sponsor work permits for foreigners?

In Taiwan, companies must have registered capital exceeding NT$5 million to sponsor work permits for foreign professionals.

6. Employment Contract Probation Period Regulations

What regulations govern probation periods in employment contracts?

Key considerations include:

  • Duration limits based on contract term
  • Minimum probationary wage (80% of regular wage or local minimum wage, whichever is higher)
  • Termination requirements (employers must provide valid justification and advance notice)

7. China's "Contactless" Work Permit Approval (Version 4.0)

What new policies has Shanghai implemented for foreign talent recruitment?

Effective March 1, 2021, Shanghai's Science and Technology Commission streamlined foreign work permit approvals through:

  • Contactless processing with simplified documentation
  • Optimized procedures reducing processing times
  • Enhanced recruitment incentives for high-level talent

These measures aim to facilitate foreign professionals' relocation to Shanghai.