Taiwan Expands Cash Handouts to Permanent Foreign Residents

The Taiwanese government has announced that permanent foreign residents will be eligible to receive cash handouts of NT$10,000 (approximately US$327) as part of a broader financial relief initiative. Premier Cho Jung-tai made this announcement during a press event in Taipei, highlighting the government’s plan to submit a special budget proposal for legislative approval next week.

Details of the Cash Handout Program

The special budget, designed to support both the nation’s security infrastructure and those affected by recent U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese exports, builds on a recently amended special act. This amendment, adopted by the legislature at the end of last month, increases the funding cap to NT$570 billion. Cho expressed optimism regarding the swift passage of the budget bill as the legislature’s new session commences later this month.

In an effort to ensure broad coverage, the Cabinet plans to extend eligibility for the cash handouts to permanent foreign residents. Cho noted that this approach follows past practices, although he did not provide further specifics. A Cabinet official indicated that the government has not yet finalized whether the upcoming cash distributions will adhere to the same eligibility criteria as previous distributions.

In 2023, the Taiwanese government allowed not only permanent residents but also foreign residents married to Taiwanese citizens, as well as foreign diplomats and their spouses, to receive cash handouts of NT$6,000.

This initiative reflects Taiwan’s commitment to supporting its residents and mitigating the economic impact of external trade pressures. The Cabinet’s proactive measures aim to provide financial relief to those directly and indirectly affected by international trade dynamics.