1. What is the definition of archive access?

Archive access refers to the public’s right to apply to government agencies to view, transcribe, or copy archival records. Agencies are required to provide relevant operational procedures, including application submission, review and response, preparation of archives for use, and management of circulation files.

2. What is the definition of national archives and agency archives?

(1) National Archives: Archives of permanent preservation value that are transferred to and managed by the central competent authority.

(2) Agency Archives: Archives that are managed and preserved independently by each agency.

3. Who may apply for access to national archives?

(1) Nationals of the Republic of China (Taiwan) with registered household in Taiwan, as well as legal entities established by them and their relatives.

(2) Overseas ROC nationals holding valid ROC passports.

(3) Foreign nationals, provided that their access to government information is not restricted under domestic laws of the ROC.

4. How can one apply for access to archives of this Branch?

Applicants may download the required application forms from the “Archive Management and Access” section of this Branch’s official website.

5. What is the contact information and location for archive access services of this Branch?

Service Phone: +886-7-7152158 ext. 616
Address: No. 2, Zhengnan Street, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Location of Access Services: Archive Room, Kaohsiung Branch

6. What documents are required for archive access applications?

(1) Individuals:

• Annual notification document
• Personal identification
• Authorization letter (if applying on behalf of another person)

(2) Legal entities, partnerships, firms, or offices:

• Proof of registration or establishment
• Identification of the responsible person, representative, or manager
• Authorization letter (if the applicant is not the above-mentioned person)

7. Under what circumstances may this Branch refuse archive access applications?

In accordance with Article 18 of the Archives Act, applications may be rejected if the requested archives:

• Concern national security
• Contain criminal records
• Involve trade secrets
• Include data on skill evaluations or qualification assessments
• Contain personnel data
• Are subject to confidentiality obligations by law or contract
• Involve protection of public interest or third-party rights

8. How should restricted archival content be handled for domestic use?

Portions of the archives that are eligible for disclosure should be extracted for use. If the content is separable, only the disclosable parts may be provided. If not separable, confidential or restricted sections must be redacted or obscured when copies are provided.

9. What are the service hours for viewing, transcribing, or copying archives at this Branch?

Weekdays from 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00. Closed on weekends and national holidays.