LIVING IN TAIWAN

The Taiwan Tourism Administration offers comprehensive travel guide tailored to visitors on their website , typically under the Travel Guide page. Here's what you can find:
● Emergency and essential public service phone numbers
● List of major hospitals
● Guidance on electricity and outlet types
● Overview of Taiwan's currency
● Standard business hours
● Dates of public holidays
● ... and more!

Furthermore, if you're curious about what Taiwan has to offer beyond the classroom, the site is a gateway to the island's top attractions, festivals, and culinary delights. Plus, there are pre-planned travel itineraries to help students like you make the most of breaks and holidays during your study. For more information, you could visit the website: Taiwan Tourism Administration

The type of visa you need will depend on the duration and nature of your study program. If you're looking to stay longer in Taiwan via the Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), you'll also need a health examination. Please check with the staff of your chosen institution for more details. For reference, visa and ARC are issued by the National Immigration Agency . You will also very likely need to know the Taiwan embassies and missions in your country for document verification purposes. Please visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and find Taiwan's embassy and mission closest to you.

Most institutions in Taiwan offer on-campus dormitories, providing students with convenient and safe housing options. To understand the process and eligibility for securing a spot in these dormitories, please check with the staff at your chosen school.

If you're keen on exploring off-campus accommodations, there are quite a few rental platforms tailored to suit diverse needs and preferences.

The rental market is rather friendly in Taiwan. To understand the nuances of rental contacts, we recommend seeking guidance from the school staff, who can offer insights on trusted rental services in the region and guide you through the contractual nuances.

Upon your arrival, the staff at your chosen school will assist you in obtaining health insurance. Students typically begin with a private health insurance plan and later transition to the National Health Insurance plan. The costs associated with both are affordable.

Over-the-counter medications, such as painkillers and common cold capsules, are readily available in local drugstores. Prescription medications are available at pharmacies but require a doctor's recommendation. Clinics and hospitals often house an affiliated pharmacy to provide immediate access to prescribed medications.

In Taiwan, medical facilities are widespread and highly accessible. Clinics tend to specialize in particular areas of medicine, such as otorhinolaryngology (ENT), dermatology, gastroenterology, and gynaecology, to name a few. Family medicine, which covers a broader range of general health concerns, is less commonly found in standalone clinics and is predominantly available at larger hospitals.

For those unexpected emergencies, hospitals offer emergency care services. While the cost of using emergency services is higher than regular visits, it remains reasonable by international standards.

With over 12,000 medical facilities dispersed throughout Taiwan, international students are never far from medical assistance. If you ever feel unwell or sustain an injury, you can promptly visit the nearest specialized clinic or hospital. Always remember to bring your National Health Insurance card or your insurance certificate when seeking medical attention. If in doubt or needing guidance on where to go, the staff of the university or college can assist and provide clarity.

Local banks in Taiwan offer a range of financial services for expats. For details about opening a bank account in Taiwan, please refer to the Contact Taiwan website .

Those interested in a culturally immersive experience may look into the LMMF Program (Light a Match Meet a Family) . This non-profit host family initiative, established by the Ministry of Education and currently managed by the Network for International Student Advisors (NISA) at Feng Chia University, offers international students an opportunity to be part of a Taiwanese family during their stay. More details about this enriching experience can be found on their official website .

There are established international communities in Taiwan. In addition to your fellow international students at the same school, you can also find expats in online communities . Exercise caution when interacting online. When in need of help, it's always the best to first reach out to the staff of your chosen school.

Stay safe and enjoy your time in Taiwan!