Taiwan Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan . There is a risk of natural disasters in Taiwan, including earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, flooding, and extreme heat. Please review the Destination Information Page for more information. If you decide to travel to Taiwan: Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to get important updates and alerts from the American Institute in Taiwan. E...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Taiwan safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Police: 110. Fire and Ambulance: 119. English-speaking operators available via 0800-024-111 (foreigner assistance hotline). Tourist Police in Taipei: +886-2-2556-6007.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Taiwan's medical system is world-class with excellent hospital networks. National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei Veterans General, and MacKay Memorial Hospital all have international patient services. English widely spoken at major hospitals.

Insurance: Travel insurance recommended as tourists pay out of pocket. Costs are very affordable by Western standards but insurance provides peace of mind for major events.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Taiwan's medical care is excellent and affordable. Bring adequate supplies of prescription medications. Carry all medications in original packaging with English prescriptions.

• Opioids / narcotics — RESTRICTED: Carry original prescription with translation to Chinese if possible. Declare at customs.
• Cannabis — BANNED: Strictly illegal. Taiwan has severe drug penalties including long prison sentences. Zero tolerance.
• ADHD medications (Adderall, Ritalin) — RESTRICTED: Some ADHD medications classified as controlled substances in Taiwan. Carry prescription and doctor's letter. Bring sufficient supply from home.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not expected or customary in Taiwan. Tipping may cause confusion or mild embarrassment. High-end hotels may have a 10% service charge added to bills. No tipping needed for taxis, restaurants, or guides.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (funeral ritual symbolism)
• Passing food chopstick to chopstick (associated with funeral rites)
• Writing names in red ink (associated with death)
• Giving clocks or umbrellas as gifts (symbolizes death and separation in Mandarin)
• The number 4 is considered unlucky (sounds like 'death' in Mandarin)