Taiwan

Travelers entering Taiwan must present a valid passport. Below is a guide to entry requirements:

Visa-Free Entry

Certain nationalities can enter Taiwan visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days) with a valid passport. These countries include:

• United States
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• European Union (Schengen Area countries)
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• South Korea
• Singapore
• Malaysia

Visa Required

Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a visa prior to entering Taiwan. This can be done through a Taiwanese embassy or consulate or online through the eVisa system.

Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality, as rules may change.

Citizens of Taiwan (Republic of China) can enter Taiwan using their National ID card or Household Registration Certificate. However, foreign travelers must present a valid passport. Entry with an ID card is not allowed for most foreign visitors, except for specific cases like citizens of Hong Kong and Macau under certain conditions.

Toll Roads in Taiwan

Taiwan has an extensive toll road system on its major highways, particularly on National Freeway No. 1 and No. 3. Tolls are charged based on distance traveled.

Toll Payment Methods:

• Electronic Toll Collection (ETC): Most toll payments in Taiwan are made electronically using the ETC system. Drivers need an ETC card or a vehicle with an ETC tag.
• Manual Payment: Manual payment is rare, but some older routes may still accept cash or card at toll booths.

Driving Tips in Taiwan:

• Right-Hand Driving: Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Taiwan.
• Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits are typically 50-60 km/h in urban areas and 90-110 km/h on highways.
• Road Conditions: Roads in Taiwan are well-maintained, with excellent signage and infrastructure.

Weather in Taiwan

Taiwan has a subtropical climate in the north and tropical climate in the south, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters.

Summer (June to September)

Summers in Taiwan are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This period is also typhoon season.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are mild, especially in the south, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). The northern regions can be cooler and wetter.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Typhoon Season: If visiting during typhoon season (July to September), keep an eye on weather reports and be prepared for sudden changes in plans.
• Layered Clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing for summer and warmer layers for winter, especially if traveling to higher elevations like Alishan or Taroko Gorge.

Currency in Taiwan

The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), abbreviated as TWD and symbolized as NT$.

Banknotes and Coins

TWD banknotes are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 NT$. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 NT$.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are widely available in airports, banks, and authorized exchange centers. ATMs are also accessible throughout Taiwan for cash withdrawals.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, cash is still preferred in smaller towns and rural areas.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions in Taiwan.
• Currency Conversion Fees: Be mindful of any fees related to currency conversion when using cards abroad.
• Small Denominations: It’s useful to carry small denominations of cash for public transport, tips, and small purchases.