Contracts in Taiwan

[inasia]

I'm looking for a job in Taiwan, and I've just been sent a contract.

The contract is quite disturbing.

There are no clauses in the contract that address a situation where the school's treatment of the employee falls below the standards commonly expected for a qualified professional (in the West).

But if I decide to leave, I must pay the school NT$18,000 (about US$550)!

While I have no prior intention of leaving early - This contractual/financial obligation shifts the balance of power clearly to the advantage of the school.

Especially, as they expect me to pay for my own travel costs to Taiwan, and to pay for all medical/visa, and work permit related costs.

I've already said "NO", on the basis of the contract. (Also, although the agent assures me this is a part-time job. The numbers on the contract indicate otherwise).

My western understanding of a contract is that it's supposed to protect both parties.

Is this sort of contract usual? Is it enforceable?

[exported_kiwi]

Ok, well, I've never taught in Taiwan so I'm no expert but generally, in contracts, there are financial penalties if you don't finish them...... nothing new in that.

In China, we can be liable for between USD 500 to USD 2000 if we breach the contract and leave.
What's new about the balance of power being with the employer? It has always been that way. They can say we breached the contract in many ways if they wish, ways that we never imagined we could and we can be fined....if we let them. If this is gonna happen, do a midnight runner because it's kinda obvious they don't want you there, so why should you stay.

If the job is only part time, then maybe you're not entitled to medical insurance or airfare reimbursement... I don't know how that works in Taiwan. I'd guess that because it's part time, you should already be there and these things are, or should be, covered by your fulltime, or main, employer so why should they cover any of those expenses....fair enough too when you think about it because most contracts clearly state that we can't work for anybody else but our main employer....yeah right! If the hours seem like fulltime, then you have every right to ask for the reimbursments because you'll have no chance to work anywhere else anyway!

Sounds like it was a good idea to decline their "invitation' to work for them..... don't be a fool, and good luck!

[harold h]

This sounds like a very unfair contract. What are the compensations to you if the school doesn't deliver as promised?

I would not ask but do cross out parts of the contract you don't agree with, sign it and send it back. If they don't like it, then go elsewhere. You are the top commodity so don't forget it.

Is this contract with IACC? Sounds so familiar to their style. They just farm out teachers. I would go direct to schools in demand. Don't stuff around with agents.