NT$10,000 Cash Handouts: Are Foreigners Eligible?
Background
On August 29, the Executive Yuan passed in third reading the Special Act for Strengthening Economic, Social and National Security Resilience in Response to International Circumstances (因應國際情勢強化經濟社會及國土安全韌性特別條例), set to counter the adverse economic impact of the U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff plan on Taiwan.
In its adopted version, the Special Act sets aside a substantial NT$590 billion budget to spend on 12 major relief measures. Among these measures, one of the most publicized has been the decision to deliver NT$10,000 cash handouts to each person. This particular measure, proposed by the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and initially rejected by the Cabinet, is aimed at fostering consumption, boosting domestic demand, and strengthening economic resilience.
Are Foreigners Eligible?
Although the Special Act provides that “each person” will be entitled to receiving a cash handout, the broad reference creates confusion, and the government has not yet clarified whether foreigners will be eligible.
On this particular subject, however, various sources online refer to the 2023 NT$6,000 cash handout program and expect non-citizens holding a valid residence permit, whether or not permanent, to qualify.
How to Claim your Cash Handout?
The NT$10,000 cash handout program is scheduled to start rolling out in late October this year. When the time comes, foreigners holding a valid residence permit will likely be able to claim their handout through one of the following routes:
- Online transfer: Register on the dedicated online platform and provide your residence permit number and bank details to receive the cash directly into your bank account; or
- ATM Withdrawal: Withdraw the cash at one of the designated ATMs using your credit card and your resident permit number; or
- In Person: Show your residence permit and receive the cash at the nearest post office or police station.
Conclusion
While governmental confirmation is pending, precedent, as well as multiple online sources, suggest that foreigners with a valid residence permit will be eligible for the NT$10,000 cash handouts provided in the Special Act.
Reference Materials:
- 《因應國際情勢強化經濟社會及民生國安韌性特別條例》（修正草案） (行政院全球資訊網-重要政策) （accessed on September 2, 2025）;
- 普發現金1萬元確定來了！行政院公布「最新發放時間」、5大領取方式、如何代領一次看 | 風生活 - 風傳媒（accessed on September 2, 2025）;
- 「普發一萬現金」誰可以領、普發一萬怎麼領、不排富、5種方法、爭議一次看（持續更新） （accessed on September 2, 2025）.
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