As educational institutions in Taiwan continue to attract a growing number of Indonesian students, the discussions surrounding their post-graduation career paths have become increasingly pertinent. Indonesian graduates face important decisions regarding whether to remain in Taiwan for work or return to Indonesia to contribute to their home country's workforce. With diverse opportunities available in both countries, these graduates find themselves at a crossroads, considering factors such as career prospects, personal aspirations, and the potential impact they can make.

Indonesian graduates in Taiwan have two options when applying for work permits. The first option requires meeting general criteria such as salary and work experience, along with specific eligibility requirements for six categories of work: specialized or technical work, managerial positions in businesses established or invested in by overseas Chinese or foreigners, teaching positions in schools, full-time foreign language instructors in cram schools, sports coaches and athletes, and artistic and performing arts work. The second option is for overseas graduates, which takes into account factors such as educational background, salary level, special expertise, language proficiency, growth experiences, and alignment with government policies. Graduates who accumulate a score of over 70 points are eligible for work permits.

Recent data from the Ministry of Labor highlights the increasing presence of Indonesian overseas graduates in Taiwan's workforce. From September 2023 to January 2024, the number of Indonesian graduates choosing to work in Taiwan steadily rose from 3,085 to 3,236. This trend reflects Taiwan's appeal as a promising hub for international professionals, offering diverse opportunities across industries such as technology, finance, and semiconductor manufacturing. Indonesian graduates are drawn by the potential for career advancement, a robust economy, and Taiwan's reputation as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Moreover, the potential job opportunities for Indonesian graduates in Taiwan extend beyond the usual employment avenues. With the rise of remote work and digital technologies, new doors have opened for remote employment, allowing Indonesian graduates to collaborate with Taiwanese companies from anywhere in the world. This flexible work model not only widens the talent pool for Taiwanese companies but also grants Indonesian graduates access to global job markets without being constrained by location, thereby enriching their opportunities for professional advancement.

Regardless of whether Indonesian graduates choose to continue their careers in Taiwan or return to Indonesia, both paths offer promising career prospects aligned with their interests and aspirations. With their international education, skills, and experiences, Indonesian graduates have the potential to thrive in diverse professional environments and make meaningful contributions to the socio-economic development of both Taiwan and Indonesia.