How does healthcare work in Taiwan, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Taiwan?

The healthcare system in Taiwan is known worldwide for its high quality and efficiency. It is one of the best systems in the world. The country offers an excellent healthcare system that combines both public and private options.
Taiwan has the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, which covers almost the entire population including emigrants legally residing in the country. It is mandatory to join the NHI.
If you have an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) after 6 months in Taiwan, are a foreign self-employed person or student, then you must apply for the NHI.
You can apply online or at the municipal office. For this, you will need an application form, photo and copy of your ARC. Within 5-14 days of applying, you will then receive your NHI card.
Because the NHI does not cover everything, as an expat it is wise to get private health insurance. Among other things, the NHI does not cover chemotherapy, repatriation, braces, eyeglasses or treatments lasting longer than one month.

Taiwan's public healthcare is provided through the NHI, a single-payer system that covers almost all residents and legally residing foreigners.
The NHI system is very affordable, with low premiums and low co-payments for doctor visits and treatments.
Many medical treatments and medications are reimbursed.
Public health care is modern and efficient. Hospitals and clinics are well equipped and provide high-quality care.
In urban areas such as Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, you can find English-speaking doctors, especially in larger hospitals. In smaller cities or rural areas, this is less obvious.

In addition to public care, there are many private hospitals and clinics in Taiwan. These often offer shorter waiting times and a more personalized approach.
Private care is more expensive than public care, but still reasonable compared to Western countries.
For specialist care or to avoid waiting times, some expats choose private institutions.

Taiwan does not have a traditional general practitioner system like in the Netherlands. For medical complaints, you can go directly to a clinic or hospital. You do not need a referral for specialists.

Dental care falls under the NHI system, but not all treatments (such as braces or cosmetic dentistry) are covered.
Dental practices in Taiwan are modern and well-equipped
Basic dental care is affordable and often partially or fully covered by the NHI. For uninsured treatments, costs are also much lower than in the Netherlands. Private insurance can cover these additional costs.

Prenatal care is largely covered by the NHI and is of high quality. Regular checkups, ultrasounds and basic tests are easily accessible.
Hospitals and clinics in Taiwan are state-of-the-art! Many women choose hospital births; home births are not very popular.
Taiwan has low mortality rates for both mothers and children, which is an indication of good maternity care.
In Taiwan, in addition to breastfeeding in public, protected by the “Pro Breastfeeding Act,” you can also breastfeed in the many, public rooms set up for that purpose.

Taiwan is incredibly safe for all kinds of travelers and new residents. Even as a solo woman, you can generally walk through Taipei at night without worrying.
Just be aware of pickpockets and so-called “bagnatchers” in crowded places. It's not common, but it does happen. Make sure you carry your bag on your belly instead of on your back in crowded places.
Scams toward tourists are rare, but emigrants may encounter credit card or phone fraud.
There is organized crime in Taiwan, but you won't have much to do with that as an expat unless you enjoy going to the hidden, poorly lit barbershops and massage shops.
The police are generally very helpful and friendly.
Because of its location, Taiwan is prone to earthquakes.
In addition, the country also experiences a substantial typhoon season from July to November.
The relationship between Taiwan and China is complex and regularly causes tensions. In daily life one usually notices little of this, but it is important to keep an eye on the situation.
Respect the local culture, such as neatly waiting in line and not talking too loudly in public.

Because Taiwan experiences quite a few earthquakes, water pipes can break and water can become contaminated with anything and everything. So most foreigners have a filter on the tap or buy water.
Public drinking fountains are generally equipped with such a filter.
Food hygiene standards are good in Taiwan.
There are no major health risks. Dengue does occur in Taiwan, particularly in the south during the rainy season.

Taiwan's urban areas are full of traffic congestion. Thus, many locals also opt for a scooter. This way you get around easier and faster, but it also leads to many accidents.
The roads in western and northern Taiwan are generally good, but in the east they can be in poor condition. This is particularly due to flooding during typhoon season.

Is the trip to Taiwan and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Registering for local public health insurance (NHI) is mandatory. In addition, we recommend that you also insure yourself with your own private insurance to cover gaps such as uninsured dental care and repatriation. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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