Taipei: Taiwan on Thursday launched a one-stop banking initiative aimed at making it easier for foreign residents to access financial services, designating six banks to provide streamlined account opening, credit card, and international transfer services.
According to Focus Taiwan, the National Development Council (NDC) certified six participating institutions: CTBC Bank, E.SUN Commercial Bank, Taipei Fubon Commercial Bank, Taishin International Bank, Mega International Commercial Bank, and First Commercial Bank. These banks will offer the services at 17 designated branches across Taiwan. NDC Deputy Minister Jan Fang-guan highlighted at the launch ceremony that foreign residents have long faced difficulties with banking services, such as opening accounts, obtaining credit cards, and making international wire transfers.
Many newcomers without a local credit history have been denied credit cards or required to provide a Taiwanese guarantor, creating a barrier for international professionals settling in Taiwan, Jan noted. Since the implementation of the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals in 2018, Taiwan has attracted a growing number of foreign professionals, issuing over 15,000 Employment Gold Cards.
Under the new initiative, participating banks are encouraged to accept overseas proof of income and foreign tax records when reviewing credit card applications and to waive Taiwanese guarantor requirements. Banks will also introduce online appointment systems for document submission and service discussions in advance, allowing for services like account opening, credit card applications, wire transfer setup, and multi-currency banking to be completed in a single visit.
Designated branches will establish dedicated counters and assign specialist staff to assist foreign clients. Financial Supervisory Commission Banking Bureau Deputy Director General Chang Chia-kuei noted that as of the end of 2025, more than 2,000 bank branches offered bilingual services, with over 80 percent of ATMs supporting multiple languages.
The NDC stated it would continue refining the program and collaborating with other government agencies on measures such as housing and education support to enhance Taiwan's appeal to international talent.