TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Labor (勞動部) announced on Wednesday (Dec. 17) plans to amend the Employment Insurance Act (就業保險法), proposing to abolish the current employment insurance age limit of 65. The ministry said this move seeks to promote employment among middle-aged and older workers, ensuring they remain insured beyond the traditional retirement age. Workers over 65 who have not yet received labor insurance or civil service pension benefits can continue to enroll in employment insurance, according to the ministry.
Chen Mei-nu (陳美女), director of the Department of Labor Insurance, emphasized the necessity of unemployment benefits for workers who lose their jobs, supporting the decision to remove the age cap for insurance enrollment. The government aims to strengthen employment security for senior workers through this change. The proposed amendment specifies that individuals who have already received labor insurance or civil service pension benefits cannot enroll, even if they are over 65.
Chen noted that international experiences indicate potential impacts on benefits, such as converting to lump-sum payments or suspending pensions, which could affect labor and civil service retirement pensions. The current system requires unemployed workers to register at public employment service agencies before receiving benefits. Workers who fail to secure employment or join vocational training within 14 days receive unemployment benefits starting on the 15th day, under existing regulations.
The ministry plans to shorten the unemployment benefit waiting period from 14 days to 7, Chen said, aiming to alleviate financial pressure on unemployed workers and provide faster assistance. This proposed change aligns with the International Labour Organization's Convention No. 168, which sets international standards for employment promotion and protection. The shorter waiting period aims to provide quicker financial relief to unemployed workers seeking immediate support.