When purchasing property in Taiwan, the required documents depend on whether you are a local resident or a foreigner. Below is a general list of essential documents for both groups:
1. Identification documents
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For Taiwanese residents:
- National ID Card
- Household Registration Copy to confirm residency
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For foreigners:
- Valid Passport
- Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) (if applicable)
- Proof of Legal Residency Status (work, study, or family visa)
2. Financial documents
- Bank statements:
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Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds for the down payment (typically 10–30% of the property price). If you are purchasing the property without a mortgage (full cash payment), you will still need to provide proof of sufficient funds to demonstrate your ability to complete the purchase.
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- Income verification:
- If you are applying for a mortgage from a Taiwanese bank, you will need to provide local income documentation. This typically includes salary slips, a work contract with a Taiwan-based company, or Taiwan-issued income tax filings. Banks generally do not accept foreign income alone when assessing mortgage eligibility.
- Credit report:
- Required for mortgage applications. Taiwanese banks will typically conduct their own credit checks within Taiwan, but some may ask for overseas credit reports as a reference.
3. Property purchase contract
- A signed purchase contract with details such as:
- Property address and price
- Payment schedule and down payment amount
- Responsibilities of buyer and seller
- Contracts can be notarized by a notary public to increase legal credibility, but it is not mandatory:
- Most transactions are typically certified and handled by licensed real estate agents or land administration agents who assist with contract and property registration procedures.
4. Property ownership proof
- Title deed:
- Confirms the seller’s legal ownership of the property
- Real estate registration certificate:
- Shows property details and ownership history
5. Legal and tax documents
- Deed tax payment receipt:
- Paid to the local tax authority (typically between 1%–4%, depending on property type and municipality)
- Real estate registration fee:
- Paid to update the property title in your name
6. Additional requirements for foreigners
- Approval from the ministry of the interior:
- Required if purchasing land (not usually needed for apartments or condos). Approval depends on a "reciprocity principle", i.e. your home country must allow Taiwanese nationals to buy land there.
- Submit proof of residency status, identity, and financial capability
- Power of attorney:
- If working through a legal representative or agent
7. Mortgage-related documents (if applicable)
- Mortgage applications usually require a valid residence permit
- Loan application forms from the bank
- Appraisal report:
- Conducted by a licensed appraiser to determine the property’s value
8. Sales agency contract
If using a real estate agent, a commission agreement specifying fees and terms
Notes
- Language Requirements:
- Most documents and contracts are in Chinese. It’s a good idea to hire a bilingual agent or lawyer to assist with understanding and communication. In some cases, official procedures may require notarized or embassy-certified Chinese translations for legal validity
- Legal Registration:
- Final ownership transfer must be completed at the local Land Administration Bureau
- Visa Restrictions:
- Some visas (student or tourist visas) may restrict property purchases. While Taiwan law does not explicitly prohibit property purchases on tourist or student visas, such visas may prevent successful ownership registration or mortgage approval. Always check your visa type before proceeding.
💡 Pro tips
- Consult a real estate attorney to avoid legal pitfalls
- Verify the property’s status (no liens or disputes)
- Agent commissions usually range from 1% to 3% of the purchase price.
- Total additional costs—including deed tax, appraisal fees, and agent commissions—typically amount to about 5% to 7% of the purchase price.
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