What are the differences between the application for permanent residency for foreign professionals and foreign special professionals?

Foreigner professionals can apply for permanent residency if they have legally resided in Taiwan for at least 5 years, and for more than 183 days per year on average. Permanent residency can be applied for within two years of meeting the mentioned qualifications. (Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals Article 14 Paragraph 1)

Foreign special professionals can apply for permanent residency if they legally resided in Taiwan for at least 3 years, and for more than 183 days per year on average. Permanent residency can be applied for within two years of meeting the mentioned qualifications. (Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals Article 16 Paragraph 1)

For more information, please see here