The National Immigration Agency (NIA) encourages foreign students to utilize the “Students Online Application System” website which allows foreign students to access various administrative applications including applying for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, to go online also means to stay away from public gatherings and save some hassle from traffic or waiting in queues.
The website, in both Chinese and English, allows foreign students to make other administrative applications such as an ARC extension or personal information amendments (for passports or addresses.) It also provides a shorter processing time of 5 working days, which, if the application is submitted in person, would be 10 working days.
One of Taiwan’s control measures against COVID-19 has required all passengers who have arrived from international ports to undergo a 14-day quarantine at home. The NIA urges newly-arrived foreign students to make an application for the ARC at home, and encourages students who have needs of an ARC extension to also go online to stay away from unnecessary public gatherings. All citizens should keep social distance as a courtesy during the pandemic time.
If students have questions about using the “Students Online Application System” (https://coa.immigration.gov.tw/coa-frontend/student/entry?lang=en), call the NIA customer service center (02-2796-7162) or contact the NIA service center that shares the same administrative area with the school. Detailed contact information can be found on the NIA website (https://www.immigration.gov.tw/5475/5478/141386/127061/127076/)
