Essential Know-Before-You-Go
Visa Requirements
Citizens of 65 jurisdictions, including most Western countries, can enter Taiwan visa-free for periods ranging from 14 to 90 days depending on nationality. Most Western visitors (including UK, US, Canadian, and EU citizens) receive 90-day visa-free entry. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your intended stay, except for US and Japanese citizens who only need validity for their duration of stay. Verify the specific requirements for your nationality before booking flights, as visa policies can change. Extensions are generally not possible for visa-free entries, except for Canadian and British citizens who may extend from 90 to 180 days under reciprocity agreements. If you plan work, study, or extended stays, arrange appropriate visas before arrival. For the most recent information, please check the website of Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan).
Safety Considerations
Taiwan ranked fourth-safest country globally in 2025 according to Numbeo’s Safety Index, scoring 82.9 points, trailing only Andorra, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. For perspective, this places Taiwan well ahead of Singapore (ninth) and Japan (tenth) in perceived safety. Violent crime against tourists is exceptionally rare. The primary safety concerns are more mundane: traffic accidents pose a greater risk than crime, particularly involving scooters. Taiwan’s scooter culture means roads can feel chaotic to Western visitors accustomed to car-dominated traffic. Exercise caution when crossing streets: always use designated crossings and remain alert even when you have right of way. Petty theft exists but remains uncommon even in crowded areas like night markets; still, practise normal vigilance with your belongings. The greater risk comes from natural disasters: typhoon season runs from July through September, occasionally extending into October. If travelling during this period, monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for possible disruptions to your plans. Taiwan also sits in an earthquake zone, though modern building standards mean most quakes pass without incident.
Budget Planning Framework
Rather than stating specific amounts (which date quickly), understand Taiwan’s cost structure relative to your home country. Accommodation ranges widely: hostels start around 600-800 TWD per night for a dorm bed, mid-range hotels run 2,000-4,000 TWD, whilst luxury options exceed this considerably. Food costs vary by venue type: convenience store meals cost 60-100 TWD, local restaurant meals run 100-250 TWD, and upscale dining starts around 1,000 TWD per person. Transport is economical: city buses and metro rides cost 15-30 TWD, whilst inter-city travel by conventional train or bus remains affordable. The High Speed Rail, connecting major western cities, costs more but still undercuts equivalent Western services. Entrance fees for most attractions remain modest, typically 50-200 TWD, with many temples and some natural sites free. Budget accordingly based on your travel style, but know that even mid-range travel in Taiwan costs considerably less than equivalent experiences in Western Europe, North America, or Japan.
Seasonal Considerations
Taiwan’s climate profoundly affects travel experiences. October, November, and April generally offer the best weather conditions: comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall. The plum rain season from May through June brings persistent rainfall and grey skies, whilst July through September sees oppressive heat, high humidity, and typhoon risk. Winter (December-February) in northern Taiwan feels colder than thermometer readings suggest due to high humidity and lack of central heating. Southern Taiwan remains milder and drier. Choose your timing based on planned activities: if you want beach time, summer makes sense despite the heat; for mountain hiking, autumn and spring offer ideal conditions; winter suits hot spring visits and urban exploration.