📃 What documents do I need to buy a property in Taiwan?

Published 5 months ago

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

For Taiwanese residents:
- National ID Card
- Household Registration Copy to confirm residency
For foreigners:
- Valid Passport
- Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) (if applicable)
- Proof of Legal Residency Status (work, study, or family visa)
- If the transaction is handled by a legal representative or agent, a notarized power of attorney may be required

2. Financial documents

Bank statements:
- 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.
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. Most banks in Taiwan do not accept foreign income alone as proof, although certain banks may make exceptions.

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%, though in some cases it may reach up to 5%, depending on property type and municipality).
Real estate registration fee
- Paid to update the property title in your name.
Other additional costs
- Including appraisal fees, agent commissions, etc.
Total costs
- Deed tax + other additional costs typically account for 5%–7% of the property price (may vary depending on region, agent, and property type).
Document submission
- Proof of residence, identification, and financial capability.

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)

For foreign buyers, 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
Local guarantor:
- In most cases, foreign buyers must have a local guarantor in Taiwan to increase the likelihood of loan approval.
- The guarantor must be an adult with a stable income and good credit in Taiwan, and be able to cover the guaranteed amount.
- The guarantor can be a relative (parents, siblings, etc.), spouse, or partner, although banks usually prefer direct relatives or a spouse.
- Before signing the contract or applying for a loan, confirm the guarantor’s eligibility with the bank to ensure they meet the bank’s requirements and avoid potential rejection.

8. Sales agency contract

If using a real estate agent, a commission agreement specifying fees and terms
Agent fees:
- In Taiwan, real estate agent fees for property transactions are usually 2%–5% of the final sale price (varying slightly by region and agency). The fee is typically split evenly between the buyer and seller (1%–2.5% each), although the parties can also agree on a different arrangement.

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.