Taiwan

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 110 for police
• Dial 119 for ambulance
• Dial 113 for toll-free domestic violence hotline
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may also contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162-2000.

Demonstrations

Spontaneous and planned demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have been peaceful; violent protests are rare. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• There is minimal street crime in Taiwan. Violent crime is rare. Take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding travel after dark or in remote areas.  
• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.
• Visit the American Institute in Taiwan website for local resources.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common overseas. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters, and scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 110.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The American Institute in Taiwan can:

• Replace a lost or stolen passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Tell you how to report a crime to the police.
• Assist you with emergency needs that arise from the crime, such as finding shelter, food, or clothing.
• Provide information to facilitate access to appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the American Institute in Taiwan and local law enforcement for assistance.  
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the American Institute in Taiwan and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• In Taiwan, drone flying is regulated by the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA), and there are specific restrictions regarding where and how you can operate drones. Operating a drone near airports or military facilities, for example, is strictly prohibited.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• US citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Taiwan seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison authorities to notify the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) immediately. 
• AIT can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers.  
• Taiwan authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave Taiwan while legal proceedings are ongoing. 
• Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, with long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Taiwan also has the death penalty for certain violent crimes and drug offenses. 
• Review our information on Help Abroad. 

Detention conditions

• Taiwanese prisons maintain order through strict discipline. 
• U.S. citizen prisoners often report harsh living conditions, difficulties communicating with family, and feelings of isolation. 
• Food portions can be smaller than a typical U.S. meal.  
• Access to mental health care at detention facilities and prisons can be limited.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Volunteering Abroad

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations.  
• Taiwan permits the provision of information or services related to sexual orientation and the organization of events focused on sexual orientation.
• Lesbian and gay individuals may still face lack of tolerance, particularly in areas outside the capital and largest city, Taipei. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• Taiwan’s People with Disabilities Rights Protection Act broadly prohibits discrimination against people with physical, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced. 
• Accessibility is most common in public transportation and lodging facilities, but in rural and semi-rural areas these features are rare. 
• Cultural norms and public sentiment around disability are positive. Requests for assistance are warmly received. 
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Taiwan Traveler Information
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 119 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available.

Medical payments and insurance

• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Taiwan. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Taiwan. 
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of applicable insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date on all routine vaccinations recommended by the U.S. CDC. Vaccinations are available at all major Taiwan hospitals.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Dengue Fever 

• In recent years, Taiwan has reported dengue fever cases. This virus is common in subtropical areas and spreads through mosquito bites.
• There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent dengue. 
• Travelers can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. For information on how to reduce the risk of contracting dengue, please visit the U.S. CDC website.

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout Taiwan. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The American Institute in Taiwan maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical facilities generally have some English-speaking staff available.
• Generally, hospitals only have minimal staff on duty overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. You can also ask if a family member can stay the night with the patient, especially if the patient is a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. Taiwan’s medical system is different than the U.S. medical system. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Taiwan. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Taiwan.
• Although Taiwan has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Taiwan, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.
• People traveling to Taiwan for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Check the Government of Taiwan’s Visitor Visa for Medical Treatment website for more information.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Taiwan Office of Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in Taiwan.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Please review Taiwan’s rules on medication.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• Surrogacy is illegal in Taiwan. 
• If you are considering traveling to Taiwan to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Taiwan.  
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are generally good. 
• Roads in major cities are generally congested. 
• Watch out for scooters and motorcycles weaving in and out of traffic. Motor scooters are common across Taiwan. 
• Exercise caution when crossing streets because many drivers do not respect the pedestrian's right of way. 
• Mountain roads are typically narrow, winding, and poorly banked. Heavy rain may make roads impassable. Taiwan’s central cross-island highway curves a lot. It often experiences poor visibility.  
• Exercise caution when driving on highways.
• Please see AIT’s website for more details on Driving in Taiwan.

Traffic laws

• Passengers in all vehicles, including taxis, are required by law to wear seatbelts. 
• When you leave a vehicle, look for scooters, bikes, or other vehicles coming from behind. Then, open the door carefully. You will be fully liable for any injuries or damage if you fail to do so. 
• Do not turn right on a red traffic signal. 
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit in Taiwan. 
• The legal 0.03% blood alcohol limit for drivers in Taiwan is strictly enforced. 
• It is useful to have proof of car insurance and proof of ownership of the vehicle. 
• In Taiwan, on-the-spot fines are common for minor traffic offenses. Each offense has a set fine. You will be told where to pay the fines and within what period of time. 
• For more serious driving offenses, you will receive a court summons.

Standard international driving laws apply with a few exceptions:

• You must keep a warning triangle in your car to use if you break down or are involved in an accident.
• You cannot turn on a red light unless indicated.
• Many drivers run red lights, especially just after they change.

In a vehicle emergency:

• Dial 110 for police.
• Dial 119 for medical emergencies. 
• If your car has a problem, call the number on the rental documents or on the windscreen.
• Provide the police with key details about the accident. Include the type of accident, vehicle information, and any injuries or fatalities. The second call you should make is to your insurance company.
• You will need a police report for your insurance company. While waiting for the police, take photographs of the scene and take the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses. Do not move the vehicles unless it is necessary for safety reasons.
• Police will ask parties involved in the traffic accident to do an alcohol test. This is standard operating procedure.
• If riding a motor scooter, you must wear a helmet.

For specific information concerning Taiwan’s driver’s permits, vehicle inspection road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States.

Taxis and ride shares

• Uber and other ride shares are widely available in Taiwan. They are generally considered safe.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public and commercial transportation are cheap, convenient, and generally safe. 
• Taxis and buses may swerve to the side of the road to pick up passengers with little notice or regard for other vehicles.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel 

Mariners planning travel to Taiwan should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Typhoons, earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, and extreme heat can occur in Taiwan. Dangerous riptides can also occur, especially on the east coast of Taiwan. 
• The typhoon season lasts from May to November. Each year, Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration issues about 5 typhoon warnings. Typically, 3 to 4 of these storms hit land. They issue heavy rainstorm alerts more often.

Earthquakes

• Taiwan also experiences severe earthquakes. The most recent severe earthquake, 7.4 magnitude, occurred on April 3, 2024. At least 18 people were killed and more than 1,100 injured.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad. 

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. 
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.