Taipei: Blue-collar migrant workers injured on the job are now eligible for a Ministry of Labor (MOL) legal assistance program specifically designed for occupational accident victims. The ministry announced that these workers will also receive interpretation services throughout the legal process, providing crucial support for those who face language barriers.
According to Focus Taiwan, the MOL is planning to expand this program starting January 1, 2027, to offer legal representation during criminal trials in occupational accident cases. This expansion will extend the current assistance beyond the investigation stage, aiming to provide comprehensive legal support for affected workers. The MOL stated that the program offers legal consultations, settlement and mediation assistance, and litigation support, ensuring that migrant workers have access to necessary legal resources.
The announcement followed a news briefing where CNA raised questions regarding the eligibility of migrant workers for the program. Wang Hou-wei, Director-General of the MOL Department of Labor Relations, confirmed that the program covers all migrant workers, including live-in caregivers and domestic helpers not protected by Taiwan's Labor Standards Act. Interpretation services are emphasized as essential for these workers to effectively assert their rights.
Legal Aid Foundation CEO Steven Chou, who collaborates with the MOL on this initiative, highlighted the importance of trial-stage assistance starting in 2027. Chou stressed the necessity of having lawyers accompany workers during trials to help identify witnesses, present evidence, and articulate the impact of accidents on the workers and their families. Legal aid lawyers also play a crucial role in advising workers during settlement negotiations to secure fair compensation.
The MOL's data reveals that the program includes financial assistance for legal fees up to NT$100,000 per case and living-expense support for eligible workers engaged in litigation. Chou noted that lawyers assigned to these cases receive compensation for their services, with 61 percent of the foundation's 4,889 lawyers in 2025 having over 11 years of legal practice experience.
Taiwan had 895,115 blue-collar migrant workers as of late June, highlighting the significant impact of this program on the migrant workforce.