Employment Promotion Subsidies for Middle-Aged and Older Workers 2026

Employment Promotion Subsidies for Middle-Aged and Older Workers

Job seekers aged 45 and above are supported by multiple subsidies: employers who hire them can receive a wage subsidy; workers themselves may also access relocation allowances and cross-city employment benefits to help them re-enter the workforce.

Last Updated: 5/4/2026｜Last verified: 4/1/2026｜Authority: Workforce Development Agency, Ministry of Labor

What Are Employment Promotion Subsidies for Middle-Aged and Older Workers?

The Act for Promoting the Employment of Middle-Aged and Elderly Persons (in effect since 2020) established a comprehensive set of measures to support job seekers aged 45 and above when re-entering the workforce. Multiple subsidy programs are available.

Main Subsidy Programs

1. Employment Incentive (Wage Subsidy)

Employers who hire middle-aged workers (ages 45–64) or elderly workers (age 65+) who have been continuously unemployed for 30 days or more:

Recipient: Employer
Amount: Up to NT$13,000 per person per month, for up to 12 months
Conditions: Worker must be hired full-time at or above the minimum wage and remain employed for 30+ continuous days

2. Training Subsidy for Employed Middle-Aged Workers

For employers who arrange vocational training for employees aged 45 and above:

Training cost subsidy up to 70% (up to 80% for small and medium enterprises)

3. Career Change Training Living Allowance

Unemployed middle-aged workers enrolled in designated Workforce Development Agency training programs can receive a monthly living allowance equal to 60% of their average monthly insured salary, for up to 2 years (same as the vocational training living allowance).

4. Cross-Region Employment Subsidy

For workers who relocate to a different county or city for employment:

Relocation allowance: Up to NT$30,000
Rent subsidy: Up to NT$5,000 per month, for up to 12 months
Transportation subsidy: Up to NT$10,000, based on distance

How to Apply

Register for job seeking at a public employment service agency (bring your ID and proof of resignation)
Inform the employment service staff of your age and ask about applicable programs
The employment service staff will match you with jobs or training
After employment, the employer or worker applies to the local Workforce Development Agency branch

Important Notes

Eligibility, subsidy amounts, and application deadlines may change with annual budget adjustments
Employers applying for wage subsidies must keep payroll records, attendance logs, and other supporting documents
For details, contact your local Workforce Development Agency branch or call 0800-777-888

FAQ

Q: I am 45 and still employed. What subsidies can I access?

A: Employed middle-aged workers can access vocational training cost subsidies through their employer to upgrade skills and stay competitive. If you are considering leaving your job to change careers, consult an employment service center first.

Q: Does the employee need to apply after the employer hires them?

A: The wage subsidy is primarily applied for by the employer. Workers do not need to apply separately. However, cross-region subsidies (rent, relocation) must be applied for by the worker at the employment service station.

Q: How long does someone need to be unemployed to qualify?

A: The wage subsidy requires job seekers to have been "continuously unemployed for 30 days or more," counted from the date of unemployment registration.

Q: Can someone aged 65 or older still apply?

A: Yes. The Act covers elderly workers (age 65+), who are entitled to the same or more favorable employment promotion measures as middle-aged workers.

Q: How do I apply for rent subsidies after taking a cross-city job?

A: After starting work, bring your rental agreement and proof of employment to the local employment service station. Qualifying cross-region employees receive monthly payments for up to 12 months.

The information on this site is compiled from public government sources. Actual eligibility is determined by the issuing authority. We do not process applications on your behalf and do not charge any fees.