The most common form of employment in Taiwan for English-speaking foreign nationals is teaching English. There is a very high demand for teachers to work in the many English-language schools, or to give private tuition. It is not necessary to have formal teaching qualifications, but a university degree is preferred, and the schools reportedly prefer teachers who speak American-style English and look western in appearance.

Most other expatriates working in Taiwan are employed by multinational companies, and many are recruited in their home countries and posted to Taiwan. In order to work for a local employer, it is usually necessary to be able to speak Mandarin, and job opportunities for foreigners are relatively few. Some western expatriates are able to find temporary jobs in areas like acting, editing etc, where their appearance or language ability is an asset.

Job vacancies in Taiwan are listed in the English language newspapers such as the China Post, China News and Taipei Times.

For those who are successful in finding jobs in Taiwan, salaries are relatively high compared to the cost of living.