Taiwan

Översikt

Taiwan’s primary threat from international armed conflict arises from long-term political disagreements related to the issue of independence from China, which considers Taiwan part of its territorial sovereignty. For decades, China has had missiles pointed at Taiwan and it refuses to rule out the use of force to return it to the authority of Beijing. However, relations have thawed markedly in recent years, though a wider regional dispute over the Senkaku/ Diaoyu Islands threatens to involve Taiwan. The threats of insurgency and terrorism in Taiwan are negligible. 

Political demonstrations are common in Taiwan but are mostly peaceful. Organised crime is a problem in Taiwan, although most are unlikely to affect foreign travellers. Kidnappings are on the rise, but generally targets wealthy natives. There are a number of micro-security risks in the country that can impact upon travel safety requirements for expatriates, with issues such as natural disasters and crime factoring into travel risk mitigation. 

The tropical cyclone (typhoon) season in Taiwan usually starts from May and ends in November. It is highly advisable for one to close monitor weather-related developments prior and during their trip to Taiwan. 

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Taiwan. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Recent cases of Dengue have been confirmed in Taiwan. Cases have been reported from: Changhua, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, New Taipai, Taichung, Taipei, and Taoyuan. Dengue occurs year-round with peak transmission in the rainy season from June to December.

Taiwan has risk of ongoing Chikungunya transmission. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Rare sporadic human cases of Japanese Encephalitis are reported May-October. Vaccine is not routinely recommended for travel limited to Taipei or other major cities.

Typhoid fever vaccination is recommended when going outside the areas usually visited by tourists such as traveling extensively in the interior of the country, for persons on working assignments in remote areas, or travellers visiting for extended periods of time.

Travellers are advised to drink bottled water, or water that has been filtered and boiled. Similarly, avoid ice cubes as it may be produced from tap water.

Most medical facilities in Taiwan are adequate in handling routine and emergency treatment. English-speaking medical doctors can be found at most facilities but might not be the same for staff. It is advisable to acquire a comprehensive travel health insurance before travel, although most places will require upfront payment. Passports might also be necessary before treatment. In Taiwan, paramedics do not normally accompany an ambulance.

There are plenty of locally produced and manufactured medications available at pharmacies. Imported medicines are available, but are expensive.

Pass

Passports are required for entry into Taiwan and must be valid for at least six months upon arrival.

Visum

Citizens of more than 30 countries currently have a visa exemption arrangement with Taiwan and are exempt from visa requirements for tourist and business visits (excluding profit-making and paid activities) of less than 90 days, provided the citizens benefiting from this arrangement have no criminal record. This visa exemption arrangement includes citizens of  UK, USA, Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan and South Korea. The 90-day period can be extended for a further 90 days once you enter Taiwan.

On arrival, visitors must be able to show supporting documents that confirm the purpose of visit, such as a fixed-date, confirmed return or onward journey ticket.

Tourist Visa: Exempt for visit under 90 days
Business Visa: Exempt for visit under 90 days for non-profit-making and unpaid activities
Student Visa: Required

Although yellow fever is not a disease risk in Taiwan, travellers arriving from countries where the disease is present are required to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination. Travellers who arrive from or transit in an area infected with cholera are required to show a cholera vaccination certificate.