Taiwan

Security Status

Normal Precautions

General Travel Advice

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Taiwan if their stay does not exceed 90 days.

A valid passport is required for travel to Taiwan. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used. It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport when travelling to Taiwan and carry a photocopy of passport at all times during your stay.

In keeping with the Government’s One China Policy, Ireland does not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Visitors to Taiwan are advised to follow the guidance of local authorities and stay fully informed of what is going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if problems arise, try talking to local contacts, tour operator representatives or hotel management.

Visitors can contact the emergency services in Taiwan by dialling:

• Police: 110
• Ambulance and Fire brigade:119

Our Tips for Safe Travels:

• Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities.
• Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there’s an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
• Follow us on X @dfatravelwise and Instagram @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates.
• Read our ‘Know Before You Go’ guide.
• Read our Consular Assistance Charter that clearly sets out the assistance that can be provided to citizens in difficulty overseas, and the limits of what the Department can do.

As the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not have a presence in Taiwan, we are limited in the help we can offer in an emergency situation. However, if there is an emergency, or if you need help and advice, contact our Consular Assistance Unit at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Dublin on +353 1 408 2527 or email: Consular assistance.

Crime

Crime levels in Taiwan are generally low and the greatest risk to short-term visitors is petty crime such as pick-pocketing.

Always take sensible precautions:

• Do not carry credit cards, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Avoid carrying valuables or large sums of cash in public.
• Take particular care when in large crowds or when out at night, especially in the beach area, or at bars or nightclubs
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Keep a close eye on personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.
• Make sure that your accommodation and vehicle are well secured, with locked doors and windows at all times.

Reporting Crime

If a victim of a crime while in Taiwan, report it to the local police immediately.

Vaccinations

Check with a doctor well in advance of travelling to see what vaccinations you need for Taiwan.

Travel Insurance

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade cannot pay for emergency medical repatriation, repatriation of remains, or for expenses as a result of a personal emergency while abroad. These costs may be covered if appropriate travel insurance is purchased, however we are unable to mediate in the event of any disputes with insurance companies which may arise.

Buying comprehensive travel insurance can save a lot of money if something goes wrong. It will also ensure that the required medical attention is provided. Hospital bills can quickly run into thousands of euro, and a medical evacuation back to Ireland can cost thousands more.

Make sure to save the insurance provider’s contact information before departure, including any emergency assistance details, and have this information to hand should you need it while abroad.

Military Service

Taiwan law provides for compulsory military service. If born in Taiwan or have ever held a Taiwan passport check the rules for military service in Taiwan before travelling.

Typhoon Season

Taiwan have a sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season begins in May and ends in November.

Seismic Zone

Taiwan is located in an active seismic zone. There is a risk of earthquakes and tsunamis.

Taiwan Central Weather Bureau

Pay close attention to local and international weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Please check the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau in relation to the various weather signals and warnings.

Visa

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Taiwan if their stay does not exceed 90 days.

Passport

A valid passport is required for travel to Taiwan. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used. It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport when travelling to Taiwan and carry a photocopy of passport at all times during your stay.

As the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not have a presence in Taiwan, we are limited in the help we can offer in an emergency situation.

Please contact our Consular Assistance Unit if you need guidance on the nearest assistance and we will help you as best we can.

Our number is: +353 1408 2527.

24 hours a day, 7 days a week