If you wish to bring your Filipino spouse’s previous children to Taiwan for residency, the process involves multiple steps, including document preparation, application procedures, and legal requirements. Here’s a detailed guide on the application process.
1. Confirm Application Eligibility
Before beginning the application, confirm that the applicant meets the following criteria:
- Applicant’s Status: The applicant must be a Taiwanese citizen or a legally residing foreign national.
- Spouse’s Status: The spouse must be a Filipino citizen who is legally divorced and has 100% legal custody of the children from their previous relationship.
- Children’s Status: The children must meet relevant legal requirements, such as having valid birth certificates and custody documentation.
2. Prepare Required Documents
To successfully complete the application, the following documents must be prepared:
- Passport and Identification: The applicant’s passport, Taiwanese ID, and the spouse’s passport and identification documents.
- Marriage Certificate: The marriage certificate of the applicant and spouse (must be translated into English or Chinese and notarized).
- Divorce Certificate: Documentation proving the spouse’s legal divorce from their previous partner, confirming the end of their prior marriage.
- Children’s Birth Certificates: Birth certificates of the spouse’s previous children to verify their identity and relationship.
- Custody Documents: Legal documents demonstrating that the spouse holds legal custody or guardianship of the children.
- Financial Proof: Documents proving that the applicant has sufficient financial resources to support the children in Taiwan, such as bank statements and income verification.
3. Document Processing by Agency
Once the necessary documents are prepared and translated, they will be processed and certified through relevant Philippine government offices. Subsequently, they will be submitted to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Manila for further processing.
4. Apply for Family Reunification Visa
Assist the children in applying for a family reunification visa, which will enable them to plan for residency in Taiwan.
5. Convert to Resident Permit
After entering Taiwan on the family reunification visa, proceed to the Immigration Agency to convert the visa into a resident permit.
The process of applying for residency in Taiwan for a Filipino spouse’s previous children involves several steps and extensive document preparation. By carefully preparing the required documents and following the application procedures and legal requirements, applicants can successfully complete the residency application. If any issues arise during the application process or assistance is needed, seeking help from a professional can facilitate a smoother application process.
