Pros and cons of moving to Taiwan

When considering a move, be sure to weigh up the pros and cons of living in Taiwan. While the warm weather, plentiful travel opportunities, and streamlined visa and work permit processes have drawn many expats in, the significant cultural differences and language barrier have also shortened many an expat's stay in Taiwan.

Below are some of the most important pros and cons of living in Taiwan.

Accommodation in Taiwan

+ PRO: Accommodation is easy to find

It won't take much effort to find rental accommodation that suits your needs in Taiwan, even if you only speak English. There are numerous real estate agencies and moving companies, along with plenty of dedicated groups on social media, that can help expats find a place to call home.

- CON: Apartments are small

The downside to accommodation in Taiwan is that apartments are generally rather small and not particularly modern. Humidity also affects accommodation significantly. Apartments in Taiwan can get hot in the warm and humid summer months, and although most have air conditioning, cooling them down can result in high electricity bills.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Taiwan

Lifestyle in Taiwan

+ PRO: Taiwan is safe

Taiwan is a safe destination. Crime rates are low, food safety is excellent, and reliable mechanisms for dealing with extreme events like earthquakes and typhoons are in place.

- CON: Air pollution is a reality

Taiwan suffers from significant air pollution. This is especially the case in larger cities such as Taipei, where it's not uncommon to receive an advisory message recommending that you stay indoors because of a particularly smoggy day.

- CON: Taiwanese cities can be crowded

Large cities in Taiwan tend to be crowded and noisy. The cities are densely populated, which can come as quite a shock to new arrivals. If you're used to space and quiet, you will need some time to get used to the hustle and bustle of Taiwanese cities.

Safety in Taiwan

Cost of living in Taiwan

+ PRO: Healthcare in Taiwan is affordable

Taiwanese employers are legally obligated to pay for your contributions to the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, enabling access to high-quality healthcare at a low cost.

- CON: Accommodation and international schools can be expensive

While affordable accommodation can be found in Taiwan, most expats opt for pricier options, as they offer more comforts, like air-conditioning and built-in kitchens. Many expats prefer to send their children to international schools in Taiwan, and the typically high fees are another major expense to budget for.

+ PRO: Activities and entertainment are cheap

Taiwan is famous for its night markets and ubiquitous street food stalls, which can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. Outdoor activities, like hiking and swimming, are a great way to experience the country at little to no cost.

Cost of Living in Taiwan

Education in Taiwan

- CON: Public schools teach in Mandarin

Due to the language barrier, public schools aren't an option for most expats. Unless your children are young enough to pick up Mandarin easily, you'll likely prefer to send them to an international school. These provide a top-notch but expensive education.

+ PRO: Tutors are readily available

Tutoring is a large industry in Taiwan, meaning that good tutors are never in short supply. Both in-person and online tutors can be hired at a reasonable cost, and can help your children learn Mandarin or cope more easily with any problem subjects.

Education and Schools in Taipei

Working and doing business in Taiwan

+ PRO: Plentiful job opportunities for English speakers

First-language English speakers have an advantage when it comes to finding employment in Taiwan. Teaching or tutoring English are among the most common forms of employment for expats moving to Taiwan.

+ PRO: Employment Gold Card

Getting the right paperwork to take up employment in Taiwan is fairly easy with options like the Employment Gold Card (a combined visa, work, and residence permit) and the Alien Resident Certificate for skilled professionals.

- CON: Unfamiliar business culture

Doing business in Taiwan comes with its fair share of cultural challenges. Relationship-building and face-saving take precedence, which can come as a surprise to expats accustomed to more direct communication.

Working in Taiwan
Doing Business in Taiwan
Visas for Taiwan 
Work Permits for Taiwan

Local culture in Taiwan

+ PRO: Entertainment is easy to find

Entertainment options abound in Taiwan. It's easy to find beautiful hikes and walks in Taiwan's countryside, while clubs, bars, markets, and other nightlife attractions are not in short supply.

+ PRO: Food is delicious and affordable

The food scene in Taiwan is incredible. Street food is delicious and friendly on the wallet and can be found everywhere, while convenience stores make it easy to grab tasty food on the run. Even eating out in Taiwan is affordable when compared to many Western countries. 

- CON: Expats will experience a language barrier

One of the biggest struggles for expats moving to Taiwan is the language barrier. Mandarin is famously hard to learn for those who haven't grown up speaking it. This can negatively affect certain aspects of life, like going to the grocery store, setting up banking, or even going to the doctor.

Local Culture in Taiwan

Transport and driving in Taiwan

+ PRO: Excellent public transport options

Public transport in Taiwan is excellent. A wide range of affordable options is available, including trains, subways, and buses. Signs and announcements are often in both English and Mandarin, making it easy to find your way even if your knowledge of the local language is limited.

- CON: Strict rules on public transport

Taiwan has stringent rules when it comes to using public transport. In an effort to keep public areas clean, eating and drinking in MRT trains and stations is not allowed and is punishable by a fine.

- CON: Driving can be dangerous

Taiwanese roads, particularly in the country's densely populated urban areas, tend to be congested and populated by a hectic mix of scooters, taxis, and buses, prompting many expats to avoid driving.

Transport and Driving in Taiwan

Weather in Taiwan

- CON: Summers can be sweltering

Summers in Taiwan can take some getting used to. Temperatures can be scorching, with highs ranging between 80°F and 87°F (27°C and 31°C). What makes summers unpleasant is the intense humidity Taiwan experiences, which increases the real-feel temperatures considerably.

- CON: Typhoons and heavy rain occur frequently

Like many Asian destinations, Taiwan suffers through an annual typhoon season. Typhoon season in Taiwan usually lasts from July to September. This season is characterised by extreme rain showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Proper raincoats and umbrellas are recommended.

+ PRO: Mild, enjoyable winters

Winters are famously mild in Taiwan, a relief after hot summers. Average lows range between 54°F (12°C) and 58°F (15°C) during the day.

Climate in Taiwan