Traveling to Taiwan

Protests happen sometimes. They're usually peaceful but can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
Crime rates are low, including for petty crime. Taxi drivers have sometimes assaulted passengers. However, taxis and other rideshare options are usually safe. Book taxis through a central dispatch service or your hotel.
Extortion scams occur. These include minor car accidents and claims of sexual assault at nightclubs. Report suspicious behaviour.
The typhoon season is usually from May to November. Flooding and mudslides are common. Businesses and government offices close on 'typhoon days'. Follow local advice to prepare for a disaster. Updates on typhoons and other severe weather are available from the Taiwan Central Weather Administration.
Earthquakes happen often and without warning. If outdoors, move away from cliffs and hazards. If indoors, shelter in place and protect yourself from falling objects. Taiwan’s Seismological Center has advice on steps to take before, during and after an earthquake. Earthquakes may disrupt train services. Tsunamis also happen. Know the tsunami warning signs and move to high ground straight away. Don't wait for official alerts.
Civil emergency drills and exercises are conducted several times a year. They can impact transport services. At these times, follow the advice of local authorities and check local media.

Some prescription medications are illegal in Taiwan. Authorities may jail or fine you if you have them. Before you travel, check Taiwan Customs for limits and documents you'll need.
Insect-borne diseases such as Dengue and Japanese encephalitis occur. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Get vaccinated if vaccines are available.
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases, such as hand, foot and mouth disease, are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid ice cubes. Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
The standard of public hospitals in major cities is good. Wait times are often long. Some hospitals have English-speaking private clinics, but these can be expensive. You may have to pay up-front, even for emergency care. Ensure your travel insurance covers all medical costs.

Don't use or carry any illegal drugs, including illegal prescription medication. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty, life in prison, long jail terms and heavy fines.
Taiwan recognises dual nationality. Taiwanese males older than 18 years must do military service. Some exemptions are available to overseas residents. If you're not exempt, you may have to serve when you arrive. Check Taiwan's Department of Conscription Administration for details. Consular services may be limited for dual nationals who do not enter Taiwan on their Australian passport.

Taiwan has a visa-exempt entry scheme for nationals of designated countries, including Australia. Refer to Taiwan's Bureau of Consular Affairs website for requirements and restrictions. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest Taiwan representative office for the latest details.
You cannot enter Taiwan under the visa-exempt entry scheme if you have a criminal record. Taiwan's immigration authorities can refuse entry to people with criminal records or deport them from Taiwan.
You must complete a Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) within 3 days before you arrive in Taiwan. The TWAC should be submitted online through the Ministry of the Interior National Immigration Agency website. Check the TWAC Taiwan Arrival Card website for information on how to complete and submit the TWAC online.
If you intend to engage in certain activities in Taiwan, for example, religious work, you'll need to obtain an approval/entry permit or visa. Contact your nearest Taiwan representative office for entry applications. See T aiwan's Bureau of Consular Affairs for further information.
You'll be screened for high body temperature when you arrive in Taiwan. This is to guard against pandemics such as COVID-19, SARS and bird flu (avian influenza). Depending on your results, you may need more medical tests.

03.08.2026