Taipei to pilot reduced working hours for parents in private firms

Taipei is launching a pilot program allowing parents to reduce work hours to care for children, with applications opening on March 1.

The initiative targets parents with children under 12 who need to drop off or pick up their kids. The subsidy is limited to private companies registered in Taipei, with a maximum of NT$100,000 (US$3,100) per company. Around 55 companies are expected to qualify.

The Taipei Department of Labor said this first-of-its-kind program excludes government agencies and offices in the city, applying only to private companies registered in Taipei. It is funded through the department’s regular operating budget, with NT$5.5 million allocated for this year.

Participating companies must implement the program at least 10 days per month for a minimum of three months, totaling at least 30 hours of reduced work time. The subsidy is based on a monthly salary of NT$43,000, with each employee eligible for up to NT$15,000.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) announced the program to promote child-friendly workplaces, with applications open from March 1 to June 30. If spots fill up early, the city will try to find additional funds for late applicants, and after June 30, applications may still be accepted if the budget remains.

Companies registered in Taipei can apply if they employ parents with children under 12 who require drop-off or pick-up. Eligible children must attend licensed childcare centers, home-based care, or be enrolled in elementary school.

Parents must reduce one hour of work per day, either starting one hour later or finishing one hour earlier, without any salary reduction.