The National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center (HURC) has opened applications this week for the first round of central government-built social housing. Applications are open online until July 8 for 1,470 units in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, and Kaohsiung.
With many foreign residents in Taiwan, including migrant workers, international students, foreign spouses, and new immigrants, facing challenges finding rental apartments, some have expressed interest in applying. However, HURC says that social housing is only open to Taiwanese citizens aged 18 and above.
HURC’s Asset Management Department Deputy Director Wei Ya-lan (魏雅蘭) explains that foreign nationals without Taiwanese ID cards, including permanent residents, are not eligible. However, Taiwanese applicants with foreign or stateless family members must include proof of those members' residency status as part of their application.
For foreign residents needing housing support, Wei encouraged turning to organizations such as the Tsuei Ma Ma Foundation and legal rental platforms.