Taiwan

The Land of Lanterns
and Landscapes

Flag of Taiwan

Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant food scene. Home to iconic landmarks like Taipei 101, the ancient city of Tainan, and the stunning Taroko Gorge, Taiwan offers a unique blend of modern cities and natural wonders. The country's geography ranges from bustling urban centers to lush mountains, pristine beaches, and scenic national parks. Taiwanese culture is a vibrant mix of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, reflected in its colorful temples, night markets, and festivals like the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival.

The cuisine is world-famous, featuring dishes like beef noodle soup, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and bubble tea. Known for its warm hospitality, efficient public transportation, and as a hub for technology and innovation, Taiwan presents a captivating destination that combines ancient traditions with modern advancements.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Taiwan.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Taiwan (3 months for visa-exempt stays of 90 days or less).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from over 60 nations (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, Japan) can enter Taiwan with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes (30 days for some, e.g., Philippines).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list (e.g., China, India, some African countries) must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Taiwan through a Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) or equivalent mission.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless from a visa-exempt country; however, they may enter visa-free if holding an e-Visa or landing visa for specific purposes (e.g., Filipinos with such visas).
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry unless from a visa-exempt country; an e-Visa may be available for some.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Taiwan using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days (visitor visa). Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years; extendable for another 90 days with approval from the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days (e.g., work, study). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit (Alien Resident Certificate, ARC) with approval from the National Immigration Agency.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period, extendable with approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship from a Taiwanese employer. Travelers from mainland China need special permits (e.g., Exit & Entry Permit) due to cross-strait relations.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Taiwan may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof.
Toll

Driving in Taiwan

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, the main toll roads in Taiwan include:
    • National Freeway No. 1: Connecting Taipei to Kaohsiung (Sun Yat-sen Freeway).
    • National Freeway No. 3: Connecting Taipei to Pingtung (Formosa Freeway).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car may pay approximately TWD 40-200 (Taiwan Dollar) for sections of Freeway No. 1. For the most current rates, visit the Taiwan Area National Freeway Bureau website: https://www.freeway.gov.tw/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Taiwan Dollar (TWD) is accepted at some toll booths (declining in use).
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance; mostly phased out in favor of ETC.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: eTag system is mandatory on all freeways; tags can be purchased or rented at service stations or online via https://www.etag.com.tw/, linked to a prepaid account.

Driving in Taiwan

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40-50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100-110 km/h (e.g., Freeway No. 1)
  • Road conditions are generally good; freeways are well-maintained, but rural roads (e.g., in Taroko Gorge or Alishan) can be narrow, winding, or prone to landslides during typhoon season (June-October).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 30 days. A Taiwanese driving permit or license is required for longer stays, obtainable from the Directorate General of Highways.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Taiwan does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected electronically via eTag on freeways.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, and typhoon-related hazards (e.g., flooding, rockfalls) in rural areas. Night driving is risky on mountain roads due to limited visibility.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable; apps like Google Maps and Taiwan-specific apps (e.g., Taiwan Map) work well. Keep an updated physical map as a backup for remote areas like the East Coast.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 110 for police, 119 for ambulance or fire.

Useful Links

Taiwan Currency

The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 TWD
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 TWD
  • Symbol: NT$ (often written as TWD)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports (e.g., Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport), and authorized money changers in major cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.
  • ATMs are widely available across urban and tourist areas for direct TWD withdrawals; most accept international cards.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred for small transactions, especially at night markets (e.g., Shilin Night Market) and rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, malls, and larger establishments; mobile payments (e.g., LINE Pay, Apple Pay) are common in urban areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and in rural areas, as digital payments may not be universal outside cities.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the TWD fluctuates against major currencies (e.g., 1 USD ≈ 32 TWD as of early 2025).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) website: https://www.cbc.gov.tw/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Taiwan

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Taiwan, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences; even small quantities (e.g., marijuana) can lead to severe charges and deportation.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted (legal drinking age is 19); public intoxication can lead to fines, though enforcement is lenient unless disruptive.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in designated outdoor areas (e.g., parks, near hospitals); vaping is regulated similarly to smoking.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Confucian and Taoist traditions; dress modestly at temples (e.g., Longshan Temple in Taipei). Avoid discussing cross-strait relations (Taiwan-China) or political status openly due to sensitivities.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, and same-sex marriage is recognized (since 2019); public displays of affection are generally accepted in urban areas but may attract attention in rural regions.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites (e.g., Kinmen Islands), government buildings, and critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially at indigenous cultural events.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over TWD 100,000 (approximately USD 3,125 or equivalent) or foreign currency exceeding USD 10,000.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, and materials deemed pro-Communist China or anti-Taiwan (e.g., certain political propaganda).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Taiwan Tourism Bureau or local authorities.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Kenting, Fulong) must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated at major beaches and generally well-implemented in tourist areas.

Key Resources

Taiwan Travel Safety

Taiwan is generally very safe for travellers, with low crime rates, modern infrastructure, and a reputation for hospitality. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols, especially given natural hazards like typhoons. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Taiwan.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Raohe Night Market) or tourist sites (e.g., Taipei 101). Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Taiwan is considered very safe, with locals often helpful. Female travelers face minimal risks but should avoid isolated areas at night in urban nightlife districts (e.g., Ximending), though incidents are rare.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers (especially scooters) in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, and typhoon-related hazards (e.g., flooding, landslides) in rural areas during June-October.
    • Avoid night driving in mountainous areas (e.g., Taroko Gorge) due to narrow roads and potential rockfalls.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory and strictly enforced.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe to drink in most urban areas (e.g., Taipei), but bottled water is widely available and preferred by visitors in rural regions.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food (e.g., stinky tofu, bubble tea) is safe if from reputable vendors.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, especially in southern Taiwan (e.g., Kaohsiung) during rainy seasons (June-October).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Yushan at 3,952m). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated if hiking in high-altitude areas.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like Taipei Veterans General Hospital and National Taiwan University Hospital offer excellent care. Rural areas (e.g., Hualien) have clinics, but advanced care is concentrated in cities.
  • Pharmacies: Widely available in urban areas; carry essentials for remote regions like the East Coast.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though rarely needed due to robust local healthcare; typhoons may disrupt access.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire).
  • Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 119 | Police: 110.
  • Tourist Police (Taipei): +886 2-2556-6007.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a scooter is popular in cities; a car (preferably 4x4) is better for rural areas (e.g., Alishan). Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use designated trails in national parks (e.g., Taroko, Yushan); typhoons and earthquakes pose risks, so monitor weather updates.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect temple etiquette (e.g., remove shoes at Matsu temples); avoid political debates about China-Taiwan relations.
  • Weather Risks: Typhoons (June-October) can cause flooding and landslides; monitor updates via the Central Weather Administration.

Key Links

Flying to Taiwan

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