Migrant worker groups in Taiwan have called for stronger labour protections for pregnant migrant caregivers and better support services for families who depend on them.
The groups protested outside the health ministry on Tuesday, arguing that Taiwan relies too heavily on families directly employing migrant caregivers. They said the arrangement places too much responsibility on both workers and employers, and called for more affordable and flexible home care services.
The Taiwan Care Workers’ Union said many migrant caregivers work long hours without clear limits. It urged the government to gradually shift away from direct household employment toward a system where professional care organisations employ caregivers and provide services to families.
Taiwanese law prohibits employers from dismissing migrant caregivers because they become pregnant. However, household caregivers are not covered by the Labour Standards Act and do not receive paid maternity leave.
At a separate protest outside the labour ministry, employers and families raised concerns about finding replacement caregivers when regular workers are unable to work. They warned that families caring for people with severe disabilities could face prolonged gaps in support.
The Taiwan Association of Families with Disabilities and Migrant Caregiver Employers called for a government agency to oversee recruitment, insurance, training and job placement. They said a more organised system would help families maintain essential care services.
The labour ministry said employers and caregivers may mutually agree to end a contract if a worker can no longer perform the required duties. Employers can then apply for a replacement under existing rules.
The health ministry said it would work with the labour ministry to improve care services and support for families. Since September 2025, households employing migrant caregivers have had greater access to government-supported services, including care provided outside the home.
The labour ministry said the government had allocated about NT$2 billion, equivalent to US$63 million, for respite and short-term care. Eligible households can receive up to 52 days of combined support each year when their regular caregivers are unavailable.
The protests highlight the challenge of protecting migrant caregivers’ rights while ensuring that families who depend on them can continue receiving essential care.