OSAC Country Security Report

Taiwan

Last Updated: October 15, 2021

Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that
travelers should reconsider travel to Taiwan due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions. Review OSAC’s
report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Peace Index 2021 ranks Taiwan 33 out of 163 worldwide,
indicating a high state of peace.

Crime Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Taipei as being a LOW-threat location for crime directed at
or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Taiwan.

The crime emergency line in Taiwan is 110. Review the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance
brochure.

Crime: General Threat

There is minimal risk from crime in Taiwan. There is extensive CCTV coverage throughout Taiwan
(30,000 cameras in Taipei, 25,000 in Kaohsiung, and 35,000 in New Taipei City). The network of security
cameras at traffic intersections, commercial establishments, and public areas of hotels and residential
buildings means that authorities can monitor and/or record most activity occurring outside of the home.
The extensive coverage plays a significant role in deterring most criminal activity, and most streets in
Taiwan are generally safe.

The rate of reported crimes in Taiwan has steadily declined over the past decade. Violent crime against
foreigners is unusual, and overall violent crime rates in Taiwan are among the lowest in the world. The
most common crimes are drug and theft related. Residential thefts occur, 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, government agency,
bank, insurance company, or other financial institution. Many of these frauds are perpetrated by criminals
from Taiwan located in Southeast Asia, North America, Africa, and Europe, making identification, arrest,
and prosecution difficult. Romance scammers also target individuals in Taiwan. Victims should
immediately report fraud through the fraud hotline at 165.

Crime: Areas of Concern

Pickpockets can be a problem in crowded areas, especially at various night markets. Exercise the same
common-sense precautions as in any large cosmopolitan area, such as maintaining a low profile and
always remaining aware of surroundings.

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Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations
for Hotel Security, and Taking Credit.

Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for
Taiwan. Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response
Tips.

Drug Crime
Drugs are increasingly available. There is increasing use of Ketamine and methamphetamine among
young people. Narcotics (such as heroin) are also available. Taiwan authorities treat all drug violations
very seriously. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs (including marijuana) in Taiwan
are severe; convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Taiwan also has the
death penalty for certain drug offenses. In 2017, courts sentenced a U.S. national to more than seven
years in prison for smuggling eight packs of tea with cannabis extract in carry-on baggage. Authorities
arrested another U.S. national in July 2020 for arriving into Taiwan with 11 bags of cannabis weighing
5.6kg, 17 cans of cannabis balm weighing 1kg and cannabis e-cigarette oil in his luggage, claiming the
substances were for personal use.

Travelers convicted of drug crimes could be subject to immediate deportation.

Consult with the CIA World Factbook’s section on Illicit Drugs for country-specific information.

Terrorism Environment
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Taipei as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed
at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for
Taiwan.

The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Terrorism Index 2020 ranks Taiwan 101 out of 163 worldwide
meaning there is a low impact from terrorism.

Terrorism: General Threat

Taiwan has no history with the current brand of transnational terrorism.

Political Violence and Civil Unrest Environment

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

Elections/Political Stability
There is minimal risk from political violence in Taiwan. Taiwan enjoys a vibrant democracy.

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Protest & Demonstration Activity
Protests and demonstrations occur on a regular basis in major cities, particularly during elections.
Demonstrations rarely turn violent, although they may become confrontational between opposing groups.
Protest organizers must obtain permits from the police. Police often set aside areas for demonstrators,
and police presence is clearly visible.

Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Law Enforcement Concerns: 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 Taiwan’s 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 Ministry of Justice Investigations Bureau (MJIB) is responsible for national security and investigating
major crimes. MJIB’s national security mandate includes counterterrorism, counter-infiltration, domestic
security investigations, coordination of national internal security, and protection of national secrets. MJIB
also investigates public corruption, economic crimes, drug crimes, 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 entry. NIA also provides
extensive services to foreign spouses and children of Taiwan 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), part of the Finance Ministry, is charged with enforcing Taiwan’s
customs policies and regulations. DGOC collects customs duties, taxes, and fees, prevents smuggling,
and enforces government controls.

Police Response
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.

Law Enforcement Concerns: Emergency Contact/Information

Contact emergency police at 110, and the fire department at 119. Police rarely have CPR training, though
most firefighters do.

The Foreign Affairs Police (FAP), part of the National Police Agency (NPA) tasked with assisting
foreigners in distress or requiring assistance, 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 as follows: Taipei: (02) 2556-6007; Kaohsiung: (07) 281-5019; all
other areas within Taiwan: (02) 2394-0238.

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Transportation Security
Road Safety
Whether driving, bicycling, or walking, remain especially cautious while in traffic. 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 policy for driving under the
influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). Anyone who is convicted of either crime can receive
heavy fines or a prison sentence. The blood alcohol content limit for drivers in Taiwan is much lower than
the limit in the U.S. Foreign travelers convicted of DUI or DWI could be subject to immediate deportation.

The most challenging aspect of driving is the multiple streams of scooters and motorcycles on the roads.
Scooter and bicycle accidents are the largest source of accidental U.S. citizen deaths in Taiwan, as
scooters often fail to obey traffic laws or follow generally accepted driving practices. Motor scooters will
pass on both sides of a vehicle, and you are legally required to ensure that no motor scooter, bicycle, or
other vehicle is approaching from behind before opening the door.

Do not turn right on a red traffic signal.

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.

The roads in eastern Taiwan, particularly coastal roads, are older and prone to flooding and collapse
caused by typhoons and earthquakes. Road closures in the mountainous and rural areas are not
uncommon during/after typhoons.

For detailed, country-specific road and vehicle safety information, read the World Health Organization’s
Global Status Report on Road Safety.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving
Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Safety

All forms of public transportation are generally safe. 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 should patrons need to
retrieve personal items left in taxi cabs or file complaints. Uber also operates in Taiwan.

Buses and the subways are safe and reliable. Directions are posted in English, and several free
smartphone apps list bus and subway routes. A modern and safe high-speed rail line connects Taipei to
Kaohsiung, with trains running throughout the day.

Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights; and consider the
European Union Air Safety List.

Aviation Concerns
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) in Taipei and Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) are Taiwan’s
major airports. TPE has many direct flights to the U.S. and is a hub for Asian flights. China Airlines and
EVA Air are Taiwan’s two major airlines, each of which has multiple direct flights to the U.S. and other
international destinations. Songshan International Airport (TSA) in Taipei offers flights to regional cities
including Shanghai, Osaka, and Tokyo.

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Maritime Security
Taiwan is one of several regional governments involved in a dispute over territorial waters in the East
China Sea. Overlapping governmental disputes over rights to fishing, mineral wealth, traffic lanes, and
ownership of islands have the possibility of turning deadly, even for civilian mariners.

Consult with the Stable Seas Maritime Security Index for detailed information and ratings regarding rule of
law, law enforcement, piracy, and other maritime security indicators.

Personal Identity & Human Rights Concerns

Authorities enforce laws prohibiting human rights abuses and prosecute officials who committed them,
including incumbent and former legislators involved in a high-profile bribery case. There were no reports
of impunity.

Safety Concerns for Women Travelers

The law criminalizes rape of women and men, including spousal rape, and domestic violence, and
provides protection for rape survivors. Rape trials are not open to the public unless the victim consents.
The law allows experts to assist in questioning and appear in court as witnesses when rape victims are
minors or have mental disabilities, and authorizes the use of one-way mirrors, video conferencing, or
other practices to protect victims during questioning and at trial. The law permits a charge of rape even if
the victim chooses not to press charges, and allows prosecutors to investigate complaints of domestic
violence even if the victim has not filed a formal complaint.

The law requires all cities and counties to establish violence prevention and control centers to address
domestic and sexual violence, child abuse, and elder abuse.

The law prohibits sexual harassment. In most cases perpetrators were required to attend classes on
gender equality and counseling sessions, and when the victims agreed, to apologize to the victims. In
2019 a total of 408 fines were issued, up from 287 fines in 2018, with a combined total of seven million
New Taiwan dollars ($238,000), a 40 percent increase from the previous year.

Incidents of sexual harassment were reportedly on the rise in public spaces, schools, the legislature, and
in government agencies.

For more information on gender statistics in Taiwan, see the World Bank's Gender Data Portal.

Review the State Department’s webpage for female travelers.

Safety Concerns for LGBTI+ Travelers

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or the organization of LGBTI+ events in Taiwan.
Taiwan law prohibits education and employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2019,
Taiwan was the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. However, LGBTI+ individuals may still
face a lack of tolerance, particularly in areas outside of Taipei. See the Human Rights Practices in the
State Department’s Human Rights Report for Taiwan and read the Department’s LGBTI Travel
Information page.

The law stipulates employers cannot discriminate against job seekers based on sexual orientation and
prohibits schools from discriminating against students based on their gender expression, gender identity,
or sexual orientation.

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Activists for LGBTI+ rights said due to victims’ reluctance to lodge formal complaints, discrimination
against LGBTI+ persons is more widespread than suggested by the number of court cases. Reported
instances of violence against LGBTI+ individuals are rare, and police response is adequate.

Review OSAC’s report, Supporting LGBT+ Employee Security Abroad, and the State Department’s
webpage on security for LGBTI travelers.

Safety Concerns for Travelers with Disabilities

The law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental
disabilities, and stipulates authorities must provide certain services and programs to persons with
disabilities.

Authorities have made efforts to implement laws and programs to provide access to buildings,
information, and communications. NGOs contend the lack of barrier-free spaces and accessible
transportation systems continues to limit civic engagement by persons with disabilities, particularly
outside Taipei. The Accessible Living Environment Supervisory Task Force under the Interior Ministry is
responsible for monitoring efforts by local governments to improve the accessibility of public buildings.
Authorities release an annual assessment on accessibility in public buildings and areas that serves as a
reference for central government budget allocation.

Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Safety Concerns for Travelers Based on Race, Religion, & Ethnicity

Although rare, there have been instances in the past where foreign men have been severely injured after
directly engaging with or making overtures toward Taiwanese women accompanied by other men.

Spouses born in Southeast Asian countries and in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) accounted for
more than 2.2% of the total population. Overseas spouses were reportedly targets of social discrimination
or abuse outside and, at times, inside the home.

The law allows non-PRC-born foreign spouses of Taiwan passport holders to apply for Taiwan residency
after three years, while PRC-born spouses must wait six years. Unlike non-PRC spouses, however, PRC-
born spouses may work in Taiwan immediately on arrival. The status and rights of PRC-born spouses are
governed by the Act Governing Relations Between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area.

Review the latest U.S Department of State Report on International Religious Freedom for country-specific
information.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-
based travelers.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
There is minimal risk from anti-U.S. or anti-Western sentiment.

Concerns involving the Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment,

Corruption &/or Transparency
There are no reports authorities or their agents have committed arbitrary or unlawful killings. There are no
reports of disappearances by or on behalf of Taiwan authorities. The law stipulates no violence, threat,
inducement, fraud, or other improper means should be used against accused persons, and there are no
reports officials employed these practices. There are no reports of impunity in the security forces. There

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are no significant reports of prison or detention center conditions that raise human rights concerns. The
constitution and relevant laws prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention and provide for the right of
defendants to challenge the lawfulness of their detention in court, and the authorities generally observe
these requirements.

The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Taiwan 28 out of 180 worldwide,
where 1 means most transparent.

Communication Issues
The constitution provides for freedom of expression, including for the press, and Taiwan authorities
generally respect this right. An independent press, an effective judiciary, and a functioning democratic
political system combined to promote freedom of expression.

Independent media are active and express a wide variety of views without restriction. There are no
credible reports authorities in Taiwan restrict media freedom.

Defamation and public humiliation are criminal offenses. Reporters face online bullying and the threat of
legal action, particularly under the liberal libel laws. Under the law those who commit the offense of
slander or libel by “pointing out or disseminating a fact which will injure the reputation of another” are
subject to a sentence of up to two years or a fine. Victims of slander can also claim reasonable financial
compensation and require measures for the rehabilitation of their reputations. These provisions allow the
subjects of unfavorable press coverage to press criminal and civil charges directly against journalists and
media outlets for defamation. Journalists are rarely convicted for criminal defamation, as the law also
specifies that a person who makes “fair comment on a fact subject to public criticism” with “bona-fide
intent…shall not be punished.” Some legal scholars and NGOs continue to urge that libel be treated
exclusively as a civil matter.

Officials in the People’s Republic of China influence Taiwan media outlets through pressure on the
business interests of their parent companies in the PRC. Taiwan journalists reported difficulty publishing
content critical of the PRC, alleging that PRC authorities had pressured Taiwan businesses with
operations in China to refrain from advertising with Taiwan media outlets that published such material. To
punish Taiwan media outlets deemed too critical of PRC policies or actions, the PRC would subject their
journalists to heightened scrutiny at Chinese ports of entry or deny them entry to China. PRC actors also
targeted the computers and mobile phones of Taiwan journalists for cyberattacks.

In January a new law criminalized receiving direction or funding from prohibited Chinese sources to
conduct political activities, with sentences up to five years imprisonment and substantial fines. In
response to the passage of this law, Master Chain, a Taiwan-based media group also operating in China,
announced plans to suspend its Taiwan operations. Opposition politicians and some media outlets
criticized these provisions as overly broad and potentially detrimental to freedom of expression, including
for the press.

The Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index ranks Taiwan 43 out of 180 worldwide,
where 1 means most freedom. The Freedom House Freedom on the Net report rates Taiwan’s internet
freedom as 80- free, and its Freedom in the World report rates Taiwan’s freedom of speech as 94-free.

Health Concerns
Emergency Health Services
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

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functions found in U.S. hospitals. Ambulances usually have emergency equipment and supplies and are
staffed by trained medical personnel (dial 119).

Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S.
Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health
insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on health insurance
overseas.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Taiwan,
indicating that Health risks, including current disease outbreaks or a crisis that temporarily disrupts
medical infrastructure, are present. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC)
country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease
outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.

See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way,
Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad;
and visit the State Department’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.

Vaccinations
Strongly consider COVID-19 vaccination prior to all travel.

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.

Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for specific vaccine recommendations.

Issues Traveling with Medications

Travelers to Taiwan should exercise caution and determine whether prescription and/or non-prescription
medication they are taking are legal in Taiwan. There are several prescription and non-prescription drugs
that are legal in the U.S. but illegal in Taiwan. The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration requires
travelers who bring legal controlled drugs from other countries into Taiwan to declare them at customs
upon arrival and show a medical certificate or doctor’s prescription.

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

Water Quality
There are no water quality issues in Taiwan. Like other parts of the world, natural disasters that cause
flooding can have a temporary impact on Taiwan's water quality.

Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Environmental Hazards
During the typhoon season (April through 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.

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Taiwan periodically experiences significant earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or greater. A magnitude 6.4
earthquake in 2016 caused 117 deaths and widespread damage. A magnitude 7.6 earthquake in 1999
resulted in the death of more than 2,400 people.

Review OSAC’s report, Central Asia Earthquake Preparedness.

Cybersecurity Concerns
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 secure and may be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Avoid conducting sensitive conversations and/or financial transactions when using public, unsecured
networks.

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi,
Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.

Counterintelligence Issues
Travelers to Taiwan should exercise the same level of caution as they would in other parts of the world to
mitigate counterintelligence issues.

Other Security Concerns

Landmines
There are no known issues with landmines.

Import/Export Restrictions
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 ten years and fines for such activities. However, this amendment does
not provide investigators with tools (such as wiretapping) to prevent the theft of trade secrets. Once an
employee absconds to China, the individual is beyond the reach of Taiwan’s prosecutorial system.

A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the or that are otherwise
restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.

Photography
There are no significant concerns with taking photographs of public building from public places.

Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

ID Requirements
Taiwan travelers should carry some form of government-issued identification. Foreign travelers are
required to have a passport to check-in to hotels, purchase some forms of transportation, and to receive
Taiwan government services.

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Critical Infrastructure Concerns
Taiwanese infrastructure elicits few concerns aside from occasional power outages in rural areas that
may result from earthquakes or typhoons. In Taipei, there is seldom flooding and very rarely any power
outages, even during large typhoons and earthquakes.

OSAC Chapters
There is an active OSAC Chapter in Taipei. OSAC constituents who are interested in participating in the
Chapter or connecting with the Regional Security Officer (RSO) should contact OSAC’s Asia team with
any questions.

Embassy Contact Information

• American Institute in Taiwan: Number 100, Jinhu Road, Neihu District 11461, Taipei City.
Tel: +886-02- 2162-2000; Regional Security Office: +886-02-2162-2333. Hours: Monday-Friday
0800-1200 and 1300-1700.

• Kaohsiung Branch Office: 5F, Number 88, Chenggong 2nd Road, Qianzhen District
80661, Kaohsiung. Tel: +886-07-335-5006. Hours: Monday-Friday 0800-1200 and 1300-1700.

Trustworthy News Sources

Taiwan has a free and independent media. Most local sources are trustworthy.

Other Helpful Info

• State Department Country Information
• OSAC Risk Matrix
• OSAC Travelers Toolkit
• State Department Travelers Checklist
• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
• How OSAC Analysts Can Benefit Your Global Security Operations

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