According to the current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication, Taiwan has been assessed as Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizen Services unit (ACS) cannot recommend a particular individual or establishment, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of services provided.

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Taipei and Kaohsiung as being LOW-threat locations for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Please review OSAC’s Taiwan-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

There is extensive CCTV coverage throughout Taiwan (25,000 cameras in Taipei, 24,000 in Kaohsiung, and 34,000 in New Taipei City). The network of security cameras at traffic intersections, commercial establishments, and public areas of hotels and residential buildings means that most activity occurring outside of the home can be monitored and/or recorded. The extensive coverage plays a significant role in deterring the majority of criminal activity, and most streets in Taiwan are generally safe.

Pickpockets can be a problem in crowded areas, especially at various night markets. In particular, travelers should remain alert to pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas.

Violent crime against foreigners is unusual, and overall violent crime rates in Taiwan are among the lowest in the world. Residential thefts have occurred, particularly in buildings without 24-hour security coverage. 

Fraud is an issue in Taiwan. Victims are primarily located in mainland China and are contacted telephonically by an individual claiming to represent the police/prosecutor’s office/other government agency or the victim’s bank/insurance company/other financial institution. Many of these frauds are perpetrated by Taiwanese criminals located in Southeast Asia, North America, Africa, and Europe, making identification, arrest, and prosecution difficult. Victims should immediately report fraud through the fraud hotline at 165. For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud.”

Cybersecurity Issues

Free Wi-Fi hot spots and internet cafes are commonly available at airports, hotels, public transportation hubs, and other areas. Many of these networks are not considered to be secure and may be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Travelers should avoid conducting sensitive conversations and/or financial transactions when utilizing public/unsecured networks.

Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.”

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Travelers should be especially cautious in traffic, whether driving, bicycling, or walking. Traffic in Taiwan moves on the right side of the road. Taiwan has an extensive list of traffic laws or regulations, including mandatory use of seatbelts. Additionally, Taiwan has a zero tolerance for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). Convicted individuals face significant fines and/or a prison sentence.

The most challenging aspect of driving is the multiple streams of scooters and motorcycles. Scooter and bicycle accidents are the largest source of accidental U.S. citizen deaths in Taiwan, as scooters often fail to obey traffic laws and follow generally-accepted driving practices. For more information on self-driving, please review OSAC’s Report “Driving Overseas: Best Practices.”

Public Transportation Conditions

Taxis are metered, and drivers are licensed. All taxi drivers must display their license either on the dashboard or on the rear of the front passenger seat. This license includes a unique identifying number for the taxi driver that is useful for retrieving personal items left in taxi cabs or for filing complaints.

Buses and the subway are used by locals and foreigners and are generally considered safe and reliable. Directions are posted in English on buses and in the subway, and there are several free smartphone apps available that list bus and subway routes. 

Other Travel Conditions

Although pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks, drivers often do not yield; therefore, it is incumbent on pedestrians to check for traffic when at crosswalks. 

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Taipei and Kaohsiung as being LOW-threat locations for terrorist activity directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Taipei and Kaohsiung as being LOW-threat locations for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Taiwan enjoys a vibrant democracy.

Civil Unrest

Protests and demonstrations occur on a regular basis in major cities, particularly during elections. Protests are an accepted part of political life. Demonstrations rarely turn violent, although they may become confrontational between opposing groups. Protest organizers must obtain a protest permit from the police. Police often set aside areas for demonstrators, and police presence is clearly visible. Travelers are advised to monitor media coverage of local and regional events and to avoid public demonstrations.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

During the typhoon season (April-October), Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau issues typhoon warnings on average six times a year (of which, three to four normally make landfall) and heavy rainstorm alerts more frequently. Typhoons have caused road closures, major mudslides, and the collapse of buildings/structures. 

Taiwan experiences significant earthquakes, including one that caused 117 deaths and widespread damage in 2016.

Critical Infrastructure

Taiwanese infrastructure experiences few concerns aside from occasional power outages in rural areas that may result from earthquakes or typhoons.

Economic Concerns

Growing economic and business ties between China and Taiwan have increased concerns that employees might take corporate trade secrets to China for personal profit. The Trade Secrets law stipulates a maximum penalty of 10 years and fines for such activities; however, this amendment does not provide investigators with tools (wiretapping) to prevent trade secret theft. Once an employee absconds to China, the individual is beyond the reach of Taiwan’s prosecutorial system.

Privacy Concerns

Taiwan’s personal information protection act is very protective of the privacy of Taiwanese nationals and is designed to prevent the inappropriate dissemination of personal information by government, law enforcement, or private organizations. 

Personal Identity Concerns

While in local bars or clubs, foreign males should avoid directly engaging with or making overtures toward Taiwanese females accompanied by other men. Such behavior has resulted in severe injury and lengthy hospital stays for foreign males. Observe cultural boundaries by approaching the female’s male friends first and gradually requesting an introduction, if appropriate to her personal circumstances.

Drug-related Crimes

Drugs are increasingly available. In particular, ketamine and methamphetamine usage continue to increase among young people. Narcotics (heroin) are also available. Travelers should be aware that penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs (including marijuana) are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Police Response

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Police harassment of law-abiding citizens is rare. Conditions of police detention are generally consistent with international practice. Suspects have the following rights: 

• the right to know what crime the suspect has been accused of,

• the right to remain silent

• the right to contact an attorney, and 

• the right to request police to investigate evidence favorable to the suspect. 

If detained, contact American Citizen Services at AIT at (02) 2162-0000. A Consular officer will attempt to visit the detained individual within 48 hours. 

Crime Victim Assistance

Emergency police can be contacted at 110, and the fire department can be contacted at 119.

The Foreign Affairs Police (FAP), which is part of the National Police Agency, has English-speaking officers at all major police precincts during normal working hours. The FAP also maintains a 24-hour service center that is staffed by English-speaking officers. Contact information is:

Taipei: (02) 2556-6007

Kaohsiung: (07) 281-5019

All other areas within Taiwan: (02) 2394-0238.

Police/Security Agencies

The National Police Agency (NPA) performs police and law enforcement functions in Taiwan. NPA’s primary missions are to maintain public order, uphold the safety of Taiwan’s citizens and society, prevent hazards, and promote the welfare of Taiwanese citizens. NPA conducts criminal investigations, enforces laws, and performs many of the same functions conducted by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. 

The Foreign Affairs Police is a branch of the NPA tasked with assisting foreigners in distress or requiring assistance.

The Ministry of Justice, Investigations Bureau (MJIB) is responsible for national security and investigating major crimes. MJIB’s national security mandate includes counter-terrorism, counter-infiltration, domestic security investigations, coordination of national internal security, and protection of national secrets. MJIB also investigates public corruption, economic, drug, money laundering, and cybercrimes.

The National Immigration Agency (NIA) is responsible for enforcing and investigating violations of Taiwan’s immigration laws. NIA officers staff Taiwan’s air and sea ports of entries. NIA also provides extensive services to foreign spouses and children of Taiwanese nationals, including counseling, language classes, and protection hotlines.

The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) is the civilian law enforcement agency tasked with protecting the resources of Taiwan’s territorial waters, providing first-line defense along coastal areas against smugglers and illegal immigrants, maintaining law and order, and conducting search and rescue operations in Taiwan’s territorial waters.

The Customs Directorate (DGOC) is part of the Ministry of Finance and is charged with enforcing Taiwan’s custom policies and regulations. DGOC collects custom duties, taxes, and fees, prevents smuggling, and enforces government controls. 

Medical Emergencies

Taiwan has modern medical facilities, with state-of-the-art equipment available at many hospitals and clinics. Physicians are well trained, and many have studied in the U.S. and speak English. Hospital nursing services provide medication and wound care but generally do not provide the daily patient care functions found in U.S. hospitals. Ambulances have emergency equipment and supplies and are staffed by trained medical personnel (dial 119).

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

For specific clinics and hospitals in Taiwan, see the American Institute in Taiwan’s Medical Assistance webpage.

Available Air Ambulance Services

International SOS, Tel: (02) 2523-2220 

Insurance Guidance

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Consider supplemental insurance that includes medical evacuation. See insurance providers for overseas coverage. Most hospitals accept only cash payments. 

CDC Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

The CDC suggests that travelers receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and B and routine childhood immunizations.

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended for travelers to rural farm areas.

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Taiwan.

OSAC Country Council Information

There is an active OSAC Country Council in Taipei. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s East Asia and the Pacific team with any questions.

American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Location and Contact Information

Institute Address and Hours of Operation

American Institute in Taiwan

Xinyi Road, Section 3, Lane 134, Number 7, Taipei, 106

Hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1300-1700 (excluding U.S. and Taiwanese holidays)

Institute Contact Numbers

Taipei Office: (02) 2162-2000

Post One (24 hours): 2162-2319

Website: http://www.ait.org.tw/en/

Nearby Posts

Kaohsiung Brach Office: http://www.ait.org.tw/en/ait-kaohsiung.html

Taichung (Virtual) Branch Office: http://taichung.ait.org.tw/

American Institute in Taiwan Guidance

U.S. citizens traveling to Taiwan should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they receive pertinent security updates and notices.

Additional Resources

Consular Affairs Taiwan Information Sheet