Taiwan is updating its policies for Hong Kong and Macau residents to strengthen its national security observation period. This move introduces a new “long-term residency” option with stricter checks to prevent unwanted influence.
Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council Chiu Chui-cheng announced the policy change during an event in Taipei. He explained that China has been manipulating Hong Kong’s population. As a result, Taiwan must increase its security standards when approving residency and settlement applications.
The new long-term residency system offers Hongkongers more flexibility. They can now apply for work visas or residency without fully settling in Taiwan. However, to qualify, applicants must undergo an extended national security observation period.
This measure aligns with Taiwan’s broader national security strategy announced on March 13. President Lai Ching-te included this update among 17 key strategies to defend Taiwan from influence operations. Authorities believe the situation in Hong Kong continues to evolve, creating new security concerns.
Chiu emphasized that these policy changes aim to protect Taiwan’s sovereignty and democratic values. He also stressed that the government is not trying to exclude Hongkongers. Instead, it seeks to create fair procedures that ensure public safety through a strong national security observation period.
Officials say the extended observation period allows Taiwan to better manage cross-border movement. It also supports more effective monitoring of potential security threats tied to residency and work permit applicants.
Deputy Minister Shen You-chung also attended the Taipei event. Both ministers encouraged the public to stay alert when traveling to China, Hong Kong, or Macau. They recommended registering travel plans with official platforms to boost safety.
Chiu highlighted over 80 cases of Taiwanese citizens detained or restricted in China. These incidents have raised public concern and led to calls for stricter regulations.
Ultimately, Taiwan’s government wants to offer more choices to Hongkongers while protecting national interests. Through a well-structured national security observation period, Taiwan hopes to strike a balance between openness and safety.
