Diplomatic Missions and Foreign Offices (DMFOs) and their eligible staff members may employ private servants and foreign domestic workers. Both categories follow the same application procedures.
I. Definition
Private servants refer to service staff assigned by the sending state to assist the heads of DMFOs and share the same nationality as the sending state. Private servants must first obtain a work permit through sponsoring DMFOs before employment. Once approved, they may also apply for a MOFA ID Card. Please refer to the “1-1 First-Time MOFA ID Card Application” section for subsequent procedures.
Foreign domestic workers refer to foreign nationals being locally hired to perform household duties in Taiwan. They are not eligible for MOFA ID Cards.
II. New Employment at DMFOs
A note verbale or official letter shall be submitted at least one (1) month prior to taking up employment enclosed with the following documents:
1. A copy of the employers’ MOFA ID Card:
(1) The employer concerned, for personal employment.
(2) The head of mission, for employment by the DMFO.
2. A copy of the employment contract;
3. A copy of the employee’s Health Certificate for Residence Application issued within the previous three (3) months by a public hospital designated by the Department of Health;
4. A copy of the employee’s valid passport with a remaining validity of at least six (6) months;
5. A completed Private Servant&Foreign Domestic Worker Affidavit.
III. Renewing or Transferring Employment at DMFOs
For private servants and domestic workers transferring or renewing employment with the same or another DMFO or eligible staff member in Taiwan, all documents listed under “II. New Employment at DMFOs” must be resubmitted for reissuance, together with the following additional documents:
1. A copy of the domestic worker’s ARC;
2. A copy of the employee’s most recent work permit issued by MOFA;
3. A copy of the domestic worker’s Income Tax Payment Certificate.
IV. Terminating Employment at DMFOs
Upon termination of employment, the employing DMFO and its eligible staff members must notify the Department of Protocol by note verbale or official letter at least ten (10) days prior to the termination date. They should also resubmit all supporting documents required under “II. New Employment at DMFOs” and “III. Renewing or Transferring Employment at DMFOs,” where applicable.