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by Superray

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If you’re moving to Taiwan or just arrived, one of the first things you’ll need is a local SIM card. Whether you’re here to study, teach, or work, having a Taiwanese phone number is essential for navigation, communication, and even signing rental contracts. Here’s everything you need to know about registering a SIM card in Taiwan.

📱 Do Foreigners Need to Register a SIM Card in Taiwan?

Yes. All SIM cards in Taiwan must be registered with your legal ID. For foreigners, this usually means presenting a passport or an ARC (Alien Resident Certificate). You can get either a prepaid or postpaid plan depending on your length of stay and status.

Step 1: Choose Between Prepaid or Postpaid

✅ Prepaid SIM Cards

  • Best for short-term visitors, digital nomads, or tourists.

  • No contract or long-term commitment.

  • Rechargeable at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart).

💡 Ideal for: Visitors staying under 6 months.

✅ Postpaid SIM Cards

  • Monthly plan (usually 12–24 months).

  • Requires ARC and a Taiwanese address.

  • Often comes with better data rates and 4G/5G bundles.

💡 Ideal for: Foreigners staying in Taiwan long-term.

Step 2: Choose a Telecom Provider

Taiwan has several reliable telecom companies. The three biggest ones are:

Provider English-Friendly Coverage Notes
Chunghwa Telecom (中華電信) ✅ Good Excellent Most government offices use this.
Taiwan Mobile (台灣大哥大) ✅ Moderate Great Good data bundles.
FarEasTone (遠傳電信) ✅ Moderate Great Many store locations.

Other options include T-Star (台灣之星) and GT Mobile (亞太電信) for budget plans.

Step 3: Where to Buy a SIM Card

You can register and purchase a SIM card at:

  • Telecom stores (in malls or street locations)

  • Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport arrival halls

  • Convenience stores (prepaid only, limited registration support)

For ARC holders, going directly to a telecom service center is the best option.

Step 4: Required Documents

To register a SIM card, you’ll need:

Plan Type Required Documents
Prepaid Passport (and sometimes a visa)
Postpaid ARC + Passport + local address proof

Note: Some stores may require a Taiwanese guarantor or secondary contact for postpaid plans.

Step 5: Activation & First Use

Once your documents are verified, your SIM card will be activated on the spot. Most stores will help you set up APN settings if needed.

📶 Data and call plans vary, but most prepaid SIMs offer:

  • Unlimited data for 5–30 days

  • Local calls and SMS

  • Recharge via 7-Eleven or online

Pro Tips for Foreigners

  • Use apps like Speedtest to compare provider signal strength in your area.

  • If you only need data, consider eSIM plans from Chunghwa Telecom or Airalo.

  • For renting an apartment or signing up for bank accounts, having a local number is often required.

Final Thoughts

Getting a SIM card in Taiwan is quick and hassle-free—especially with the right documents. Whether you’re here for a few weeks or a few years, a local number will make your life easier and help you settle in faster.

Need help finding housing or getting set up in Taiwan? TRA (Taiwan Rental Assistance) offers full relocation support—from housing to everyday life. Contact us anytime!

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