Short answer: holders of Taiwan’s Alien Permanent Resident Certificate (APRC) lose permanent residence if they average under 183 days a year in Taiwan over the last five years. The rule is a five-year average, not 183 days every year; for study abroad, medical treatment and similar reasons, you can notify the National Immigration Agency, for up to two years each time.
How to count
Divide your total days in Taiwan over the last five years by five:
| Situation | Total in five years | Yearly average | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example 1: about 200 days a year | 1,000 days | 200 days | Meets the rule |
| Example 2: 250 days for three years, then 90 for two | 930 days | 186 days | Meets the rule |
| Example 3: about 150 days a year | 750 days | 150 days | Does not meet it |
Example 2 shows that a year or two of fewer days is generally fine if the five-year average still reaches 183.
Special reasons you can notify
- Studying abroad.
- Medical treatment.
- Being posted abroad by the Taiwan government or a company, as set by the Agency.
Each notification covers up to two years; arrange it before leaving and keep records.
Practical tips
- Track your travel dates: you can request your entry and exit records from the Agency.
- Count ahead: check the five-year average before a long absence.
- Family: a spouse and children holding APRCs must each meet the rule.
Versus naturalisation
The APRC itself doesn’t require giving up your nationality; naturalisation generally requires five years of lawful residence with 183+ days a year and renouncing your nationality — see Taiwan APRC explained.
As of October 2026; subject to the National Immigration Agency’s latest rules.