It is essential for any traveller to have a SIM Card in Taiwan as it has many benefits. It can help with navigating the city, travelling to other parts of Taiwan, finding delicious Taiwanese food, using Google Translate, and so much more.
I’ve been to Taiwan many times over the past 10 years, and the requirements for getting a SIM card in Taiwan have changed over time. But the good news is that the price of tourist SIM cards hasn’t changed, so you’re getting the same value as before.
And getting a Taiwan tourist SIM card couldn’t be easier. In this post, I will tell you exactly how and where to buy a SIM card at the airport, in cities across Taiwan and online.
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Before you buy a Taiwan prepaid SIM Card for tourist
Before you get a SIM card in Taiwan, take a look at my post on all my best tips for travelling to Taiwan. I included a lot of information, including first-time traveller tips, transportation around the country, booking accommodations, and much more.
Here are some information you need to know before buying a prepaid SIM card in Taiwan:
- It is possible to buy a prepaid SIM card at airports across Taiwan, at mobile retail stores in the city, and through Klook.
- Your mobile phone must be unlocked in order for you to use a Taiwan phone card.
- You must provide the following documents for buying a SIM card:
- Passport
- Permit to enter Taiwan – for visitors from China, Hong Kong and Macau
- Secondary identification? – entry permit, visa, tourist visa, international student card, official ID such as driver’s license, identity card, or social security card (this was a new requirement in 2023, but in 2026, this is not required at the counters at Taoyuan airport. But I read mixed reviews online, so if you have one, bring one just in case)
Taiwan SIM Card Service Provider and Prepaid SIM Card Prices
Many telecommunications providers in Taiwan sell tourist SIM cards, including the three largest: Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, and Taiwan Mobile. Besides these companies, there are a few other smaller companies.
Since I’ve only used Chunghwa Telecom and FarEasTone, I recommend either one. They both have similar prepaid phone plans and affordable prices. I’ve had no problems with either service provider. I didn’t have any interruptions, the connection was fast, and I got cell phone coverage everywhere in Taiwan.
1. Chunghwa Telecom 中華電信
Chunghwa Telecom is the largest telecommunication service provider in Taiwan. The company has been providing mobile communication and other services since 1996.
They have many locations selling prepaid SIM cards, including several service centres at airport terminals (both Taipei airports, Taichung and Kaohsiung) and retail stores across Taiwan.
Each prepaid plan includes unlimited data and credit for voice calls and texts, but the plans cannot be extended or topped up.
Taiwan sim card unlimited data plans for Chungwa Telecom
Chunghwa Telecom has the following tourist prepaid card plans:
5G SIM
- 3 Day Pass for NT$500 (with unlimited data, 3GB tethering, NT$50 voice)
- 5 Day Pass for NT$600 (with unlimited data, 5GB tethering, NT$100 voice)
- 7 Day Pass for NT$800 (with unlimited data, 7GB tethering, NT$150 voice)
- 10 Day Pass for NT$1000 (with unlimited data, 10GB tethering, NT$200 voice)
- 15 Day Pass for NT$1200 (with unlimited data, 15GB tethering, NT$200 voice)
- 30 Day Pass for NT$1600 (with unlimited data, 30GB tethering, NT$200 voice)
- 60 Day Pass for NT$2600 (with unlimited data, 60GB tethering, NT$300 voice)
- 90 Day Pass for NT$3300 (with unlimited data, 90GB tethering, NT$500 voice)
4G SIM
- 3 Day Pass for NT$300 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 5 Day Pass for NT$300 (with unlimited data, NT$50 voice)
- 7 Day Pass for NT$500 (with unlimited data, NT$150 voice)
- 10 Day Pass for NT$500 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 15 Day Pass for NT$700 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 30 Day Pass for NT$1000 (with unlimited data, NT$430 voice)
- 90 Day Pass for NT$2199 (with unlimited data, NT$199 voice)
- 180 Day Pass for NT$3999 (with unlimited data, NT$399 voice)
2. Far EasTone Telecommunications (FET) 遠傳電信
Far EasTone is Taiwan’s third-largest telecommunication company, providing telecommunications and digital services.
They have mobile service centre at Taoyuan Airport and many retail stores across Taiwan.
Each prepaid plan includes unlimited data and credit for voice calls and texts, but the plans cannot be extended or topped up.
Taiwan sim card unlimited data plans for Far EasTone
Far EasTone prepaid card plans are similar to Chunghwa Telecom’s, except they have an additional 8-day 4G plan and don’t offer 90-day or 180-day 4G plans (see pricelist below – Far EasTone is indicated in the top left corner of each plan)
5G SIM
- 3 Day Pass for NT$500 (with unlimited data, 3GB tethering, NT$50 voice)
- 5 Day Pass for NT$600 (with unlimited data, 3GB tethering, NT$100 voice)
- 7 Day Pass for NT$800 (with unlimited data, 3GB tethering, NT$150 voice)
4G SIM
- 3 Day Pass for NT$300 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 5 Day Pass for NT$300 (with unlimited data, NT$50 voice)
- 7 Day Pass for NT$450 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 8 Day Pass for NT$450 (with unlimited data, NT$50 voice)
- 10 Day Pass for NT$500 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 15 Day Pass for NT$700 (with unlimited data, NT$100 voice)
- 30 Day Pass for NT$1000 (with unlimited data, NT$430 voice)
How to buy SIM card in Taiwan in 2026
Getting a SIM card in Taiwan is very simple. Once you have located the mobile phone counter at the airport or a retail store, provide these items:
- Passport
- Permit to enter Taiwan – for visitors from China, Hong Kong and Macau
- Secondary identification? – entry permit, visa, tourist visa, international student card, official ID such as driver’s license, identity card, or social security card (this was a new requirement in 2023, but in 2026, this is not required at the counters at Taoyuan airport. But I read mixed reviews online, so if you have one, bring one just in case)
- Headshot Photo – they will take a passport-sized photo of you with their iPad
- Credit card and cash (I’ve encountered both scenarios at airports and retail stores)
You can choose either a physical SIM card of an eSIM card. It is the same price for both.
The store clerk will help you fill out the form, install the SIM card and set up your mobile phone.
After registration, your new prepaid SIM card will work right away. Double-check to ensure you have a data connection before leaving the counter.
Also, take a photo of the helpline’s phone number if you need further help. I’ve never had to call anyone as the cell phone service is quite easy to use and didn’t give me any problems at all.
Where to buy SIM card in Taiwan
There are many ways to get a Taiwan travel SIM card for your cell phone. The easiest ways to buy a SIM card are from:
- Mobile phone centres at airports across Taiwan
- Any mobile phone retail stores in major cities across Taiwan
- Order through Klook
1. Taiwan SIM card at Airport Mobile Phone Centres
Taipei – Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
Taoyuan International Airport has several cellular service centres throughout the airport. Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, and SIM cards from other mobile service providers are available for purchase.
If you arrive in Terminal 1, there is one mobile service provider counter in the controlled area (8:30am-6:30pm). And if you exit the controlled area, there are three counters selling SIM cards (8am-7pm) located at the North Meeting Point, the north end, and the south end of the arrival hall.
And if you arrive in Terminal 2, the mobile service provider counters in the non-controlled area are located on the first floor (6am-11:30pm) and third floor (8am-7pm).
Taipei – Songshan Airport (TSA)
Few international flights fly into Songshan Airport in Taipei. And if you are one of the few, you can still get a Chungwa Taiwan prepaid SIM card at the international arrival hall (6am-10pm).
Taichung – Taichung International Airport (RMQ)
If you are flying into Taichung International Airport, there is a Chunghwa Telecom counter (10am-10pm) in the international departure hall. Look for the counter after you exit immigration and customs.
Kaohsiung – Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)
A few international flights fly into Kaohsiung International Airport. And if you arrive in Kaohsiung, you can get a Chunghwa SIM card (8am-10pm) on the first floor in the international terminal.
2. Any mobile phone retail stores in major cities across Taiwan
If you did not buy a Taiwan data SIM card at the airport but change your mind later, you could purchase a SIM card at any mobile phone retail store across Taiwan.
First, locate a retail store, like Chunghwa Telecom or Far EasTone. Bring your passport, secondary identification (I read mixed reviews, but bring one just in case), credit card and cash, and you will get your prepaid SIM card immediately.
The store clerk will fill out all the registration information and install the SIM card for you.
3. Order through Klook
Another way to secure a SIM card in Taiwan is to order one through Klook.
Klook offers many types of Taiwan SIM cards for tourists, including Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone and SIM cards by other telecom companies.
Since I’ve never used SIM cards by other companies, I suggest sticking to either Chunghwa or Far EasTone.
One of the best advantages of booking in advance is securing a SIM card without withdrawing money from an ATM. You can arrive in Taiwan, pick up the SIM card and be on the road.
Tip: I would only suggest ordering one in advanced if you are arriving in Taiwan at a “normal” hour. I’ve heard some flights get in super early or late. And mobile service centres at the airport do not run 24 hours. And if they are not open, you cannot pick up your SIM card.
Are you going to get a SIM card in Taiwan?
Having a Taiwan tourist SIM card really does help with navigation and communication. It is not as cheap as other Asian countries, but I really do think having a SIM card in Taiwan can really enhance your travel experience.
I hope you like this post and find it useful for your next solo trip to Taiwan. If you have any other questions, leave it in the comment section below.
Ready to plan your trip to Taiwan? Here are some of my go-to travel planning resources:
* Book your flight: find flight deals on Skyscanner
* Book accommodation: find the best Taiwan accommodations on Agoda or Booking
* Buy insurance: Safetywing is my go-to provider for travel insurance, as it covers many things. I will never travel without the Nomad Insurance Package because it protects me against unforeseen events. Get a quote today.
* Order a SIM card: order a SIM card in advance, collect it upon arrival, and set up your mobile phone before arriving at your destination. Or find out how and where to get a SIM Card in Taiwan.
* Join tours: check Klook or Get Your Guide for the best tours around Taiwan
Thank you for reading my post on Taiwan SIM card
I have many posts on Taiwan and you might also like these other posts on solo travel in Taiwan:
Introduction to Taiwan
- Things to know before visiting Taiwan
- How to spend 3 weeks in Taiwan
- 22 must-eat food in Taiwan
- Top 10 must-try Taiwan 7-11 Food
Northern Taiwan posts
- Things to do alone in Taipei Taiwan
- Where to stay in Taipei for solo travellers
- Dadaocheng Taipei: what to do, buy and eat on Dihua Street
- 9 Places to eat breakfast in Taipei
- Top food to try in Ximending in Taipei
- Best day trips from Taipei
- A complete beginner’s guide to Beitou Hot Spring
- Bitoujiao Trail: short and easy hike from Taipei or Yilan
- How to travel from Taipei to Jiufen
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Hi, my name is Queenie, and I’ve been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!
21 comments
Hi, my friends and I will be arriving in Taipei at around 2AM in the morning this coming February, i was just wondering if the mobile phone centers and money changer kiosk will be open this early in the morning?
Hi Shirlene, it looks like the currency exchange is open 24 hours (according to the airport website). However, the mobile phone centres are open until about midnight or so. But there are many places in the city to get a sim card. Hope this is helpful!
Hi, I’m hoping you can help me out as I am finding conflicting information everywhere.
I read that to get a tourist prepaid sim card, I only need to bring my passport and maybe driver’s license. However, companies like CHT insist I need an ARC? That is confusing as ARC are for residents. Then they try to sell me a $4000NTD card for 6 months.
I guess it is a bit confusing for them bc I am a US citizen with a dual Taiwanese passport. They say if I use Taiwan passport, I need a resident card? If US passport then ARC? But I just want a simple prepaid card where I can add to it when I need to. I’m not sure how long I will stay, 3-6 months.
Is there any information you can give me about this topic? What is the best way to get a prepaid sim card for someone who is staying 3-6 months? Taiwan Mobile has an offer for $100TWD prepaid card, but I’m not sure if a tourist can get it.
Thanks!
Hi Cliff,
I went on Chunghwa website and found this “Secondary ID may be one of the following: Entry Permit issued by Taiwan National Immigration Agency, Visa, Tourist Visa, AR, or Internatioanl Student Card. If none of the above is available, the subscriber may use his/her official Photo ID (such as Social Security Card, Identity Card, or Driver’s License”
Seems like the second ID requirement is new? I don’t recall providing this before. Do you have a drivers license or another to verify?
I also checked just now that a 30-day prepaid sim costs $1000NT. If you are not sure how long you will stay, perhaps get 1 month prepaid at a time. I’ve done that in the past. But seems like the deal you were offered is quite good.
I’ll be visiting Taiwan in the soon future so will update my post. Hope this is helpful.
Hi,
Thank you for your reply. I may have information to help you out. TWM was most helpful. So … to a sim card, they require proof of address on some sort of document. This is to prevent abuse of sim cards as most are aware. My problem was using a Taiwanese passport. If you use a foreign passport, you can use your foreign address. So if I used my USA passport, I can use my USA driver’s license.
But since my entry was with a Taiwanese passport, I needed an address here in Taiwan. Not being a resident here, I do not have a permanent address, that was the issue. In this case, they recommend that I get a friend or family that lives here to get me a card.
I also found out that TWM has prepaid sim cards that allow top up, or refill. This is something CHT and others did not offer. For $300NT, you get unlimited data for 3 days. However, the paid phone minutes are for 6 months. So this is good for travelers who do not really need 4G data, just needed a phone. Then you can refill it with monthly packages with both data and minutes, I think the lowest is $300NT.
I think in my case it is unique b/c I’m staying for months and have already rented a wifi router for home use. That’s why I do not need so much data. But I would think other visitors may want deals with more data for their stay.
Anyways, thanks for replying. Hope this has been helpful.
Hi Cliff,
Thanks so much for all the info. It really helps to have updated info as things change quickly (as we have seen the last few years). I’m also going to Taiwan this year so when I come across new info I will update it on my blog as well. But always helpful to have useful insight from travellers in Taiwan at the moment. Enjoy your time there and thank you again for all the info!
Is it cheaper at 7-eleven than the airport? I can’t believe how many blogs write a 20 page post on buying a sim card but dont have the only basic info i actually want
Hi George,
Perhaps there isn’t a lot of online info about SIM cards at 711 because there are many service provider outlets for buying SIM cards all over Taiwan, even in small towns and off the beaten path places.
On Taiwan 711 website, it says they sell 5-day ibon mobile 4G prepaid card for NT$350. This is another service provider other than Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, and Taiwan Mobile.
So to answer your question, for the the same 5-day 4G plan, it’s not cheaper at 711.
Hope this helps!
Which format do tourist prepaid SIMs have? Is it a physical SIM card or an eSIM? I have a phone with SIM + eSIM. I am using a physical SIM card at home. Should I switch to eSIM before arriving in Taiwan?
Hi Christian,
The prepaid SIM cards I mentioned in this post are all physical SIM cards. You will have to buy it and insert it into the SIM slot on your phone. eSIM is a different product. Hope this helps!
I am a bit confused regarding the “credit for voice calls and texts”. Is this credit for calls to Taiwanese mobile and landline numbers? How much is a minute? How much is a minute to Europe?
Hi Christian,
The credit is for calling and texting.
Chunghwa Telecom website says you can make locals and international calls with a prepaid card. But they didn’t say the rate for local or international calls. You can dial 928 from your mobile phone (with your Chunghwa prepaid card) for more info.
I used the prepaid card but never use the calling and texting credit. I’ve used the data plan to talk on WhatsApp and the connection was great.
Hope that helps!
HI, Thank you for this post. I am new in Taiwan and I bought a 10 Day sim because I was hoping to buy another one because I will be staying here for around 2 years. Where can I possibly buy another prepaid card that I can use for around 2 years? and what would be the requirement? Hoping you can answer me with my query. Thanks!
Hi Philip,
I was in Taiwan 2 months ago and didn’t see any prepaid phone plans for 2 years. The longest I’ve seen is 6 months. Both Chunghwa or Far EasTone have 6 months prepaid plans but cannot be extended. Would buying multiple sim cards at 6 month intervals be an option?
Or someone else in the comment section mentioned that Taiwan Mobile has prepaid phone plans that allows top up. I looked online and checked this is actually possible but it didnt mention anything about the plan being extended when you top up. Perhaps this is something you could check or use?
I plan to check out Taiwan Mobile next time im back in the country. Hopefully I can share more info then but in the meantime, hopefully you found this useful. 🙂
Hi there! How do you switch back the Chunghwa SIM card when you leave Taiwan? I need to put my original T-Mobile SIM card to return to the United States from Taiwan. Please help me with any information.
Hi Betty,
Chungwa SIM card is a physical SIM card. So you’ll have to physically put in the card in your phone but make sure you keep your T-Mobile SIM card somewhere safely so you can swap it back in when you are on your way home. Hope this helps!
It would be helpful to clearly date your posts, so the readers can get an idea of how old the information is.
Hi Tihomir,
I agree – the date for all my posts are under the main title. Perhaps it’s a bit hidden? I’ll try to see if that can be shown somewhere else.
Thank you for your comment.
Hi Queenie,
I will be heading to Taipei for 10 days and wondering if the 4G Unlimited Data SIM card for tourist allows hotspot use, coz I thot of sharing the data with my travelling companion so that we both can have access to data to do google search or even do postings. If not, please advise and recommend one provider or SIM card that allows for 4G phone.
Hi Ignatius,
Yes, you can set up your mobile hotspot and tethering on your phone with the 4G unlimited data SIM card. I did that before when I was with a friend in Taiwan. The only thing is it drains your mobile phone battery quite quickly. Enjoy your Taiwan trip!
Thank you very much for the quick reply. We may bring along a mifi along with extra backup battery in the event we need that extra juice. thank you once again.