In recent years, Taiwan's fertility rate has continued to decline. According to the Ministry of the Interior, the total fertility rate in 2023 will be 1.05, a record low. Late marriages and late births have become the norm, and with infertility becoming more and more of a concern, IVF has become an important option for many families to fulfill their dreams. In order to help more infertile couples, the Ministry of Health and Welfare has launched a brand new "Infertility Treatment Subsidy Program" since 2021, and will continue to expand the scope and amount of the subsidy, so that more families will have the opportunity to welcome the arrival of a new life. What is IVF subsidy?
IVF subsidy is actually the "Infertility Treatment Subsidy Program" launched by the National Health Service of the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Starting from 2021, the subsidy will be extended from low-income and lower-middle-income households to all eligible infertile couples, as long as one of the spouses is a Taiwanese national and the wife is under 45 years old, they can apply for the subsidy. Not only that, but the amount and frequency of the subsidy has also been significantly increased so that more families can afford the cost of IVF procedures.
Who can apply?
You can apply for the IVF subsidy if you meet the following three criteria:
1. Couples who have been diagnosed as "infertile" by a legal artificial reproduction organization and undergo IVF treatment.
2. The couple has completed marriage registration and at least one of them has R.O.C. nationality.
3. The wife is under 45 years old.
How much is the IVF subsidy?
The amount of subsidy is graded according to family income and can be up to $150,000 per visit! Here are the details:
- Low-income and low-moderate income families: The maximum amount of subsidy is $150,000 per application.
- Ordinary families: $100,000 for the first application and $60,000 for the second application.
If the treatment is not completed, e.g. only egg retrieval or embryo implantation is performed, the amount of subsidy will also be calculated according to the situation, so that every cent of subsidy will be utilized. Frequency and Age Limits
The IVF subsidy is not a one-time subsidy, but can be applied for multiple times! The number of subsidies for each child depends on the age of the wife:
- Under 40 years old: up to 6 times per child.
- 40 to 44 years old: up to 3 times per pregnancy.
There is also a limit on the number of embryos that can be implanted, with a maximum of one embryo implantation for those under 36 years of age and a maximum of two embryo implantations for those between 36 and 45 years of age.
How to apply?
The application process is very simple! Simply prepare the following documents and submit them to the contracted organization receiving the treatment:
1. Both husband and wife's identity cards (original + photocopy). 2.
2. Seal of both husband and wife
3. A copy of the bank book (remittance account).
Low-income and low-middle-income households need to prepare additional documents. After approval, the subsidy will be directly transferred to the designated account and notification will be sent by SMS. List of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Subsidy Organizations
As of November 2024, the NHS has contracted with 102 artificial reproduction organizations, covering almost all counties and cities in Taiwan, so that infertile couples can receive treatments close to their homes. In addition to Taitung, Nantou, Penghu, and Lianjiang counties, there are hospitals or clinics throughout Taiwan that provide professional and convenient services. If you are in need, don't forget to check if the organization you are receiving treatment from is a contracted unit of the National Health Service to ensure that you can apply for the subsidy smoothly. Importance of IVF subsidy
The cost of IVF treatment can be between $150,000 and $250,000, which can be a huge burden for many families. The government subsidy not only relieves the financial pressure, but also gives infertile couples the peace of mind they need to receive treatment and work hard to welcome a new baby. IVF is not only an advancement in technology, but also the starting point of many families' happiness. A boon to infertile couples
The introduction of the IVF subsidy program is undoubtedly a major breakthrough in Taiwan's fertility policy. If you or someone close to you has a need for this program, don't miss out on this valuable resource! Share this article to let more people know the good news!