APRC and Open Work Permit.
Today is a special day for me.
Today I received my APRC, my permanent residency in Taiwan.
And also received my Open Work Permit.
For those who aren’t familiar, APRC stands for Alien Permanent Resident Certificate.
This means I can work across Taiwan indefinitely in my lifetime.
Furthermore, I can travel back and forth like a national citizen without limitations.
And the fun fact is, I can even give, not only Spanish, but also Taiwanese nationality to my future child, how cool is that!
Wasn’t easy and I didn’t get any shortcuts.
I am thankful and specially proud, because it is been accomplished in a long but persistent journey.
Within a span of 8 years continuously living and working in Taiwan, getting immersed in the culture, the language, its people, the business, the markets and also by filling applications, abiding by immigration rules, contributing through all sort of taxes, public healthcare contribution, etc.
Yes, I am even proud of paying taxes.
That is because from the beginning Taiwan and its people, extended their hands to me, and I find myself very fortunate and supported, just like if I was in my second home.
Of course, that doesn’t mean things were easy or that I had a privilege in comparison to others. Being abroad is actually tougher, but an enriching experience nevertheless.
Besides the difficulties, that’s why I proudly contribute and, till date, I try to correspond the generosity and warmth given to me by Taiwanese people, the best I can.
No one knows what the future holds for me. I do love to explore opportunities all around the world, but surely Taiwan will be always –personally for me– felt as my second home.