Maximum working years in Taiwan is now 9 years!

Again, I've been in hibernation lately. Now we're back with a good news!

On May 30,2007, the maximum working limit for foreign workers in Taiwan has been extended to 9 years from the previous 6 years limit.

It is said that it is a compromise to the request of some 15,000 companies in Taiwan to totally remove the working-length limit. The 9 years limit is approved by the Legislative Yuan over opposition from the CLA (Council of Labor Affairs). The CLA has cited questions on social and economic impacts of longer stay of guest workers, like rights of foreign workers to claim retirement pensions, and demand to bring family members to Taiwan.

The case of Germany's immigration issues has been brought as an example as to why stay of migrant workers has to be limited. The CLA's position is understandable, because an influx of migrant workers is tough and complex issue to handle, particulary if guest workers fails to integrate well with their local population. But evidently, Taiwan needs guest workers to serve it's economy. Even with the government concerns that unemployment in Taiwan is growing, there are sectors in their multitude of industries with serious labor shortages. That explains the approval of the new limit.

I'm quite sure this news bring smiles and high hopes to many. Cheers!