NATIONAL INSURANCE GUIDE

Insurance in Taiwan for American Tourists and Expats

Insurance for American Tourists and Expats in Taiwan

Taiwan is an attractive destination for American tourists and expatriates alike, known for its modern cities, excellent healthcare system, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you are visiting Taiwan for a short trip or planning a long-term stay as an expat, having the right insurance coverage—including health insurance, travel insurance, auto insurance, home insurance, and life insurance—is essential to protect yourself, your family, and your assets.

This guide provides detailed information to help Americans understand Taiwan’s insurance landscape, legal requirements, common risks, and trusted insurance providers.

Understanding the Insurance Landscape in Taiwan for Americans

Taiwan’s healthcare system is largely supported by the government through the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which covers most residents including expats who hold an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and stay longer than six months. New arrivals often get enrolled automatically by their employer, while others must register personally within a few months.

Despite the comprehensive public system, many American expatriates supplement NHI with private international health insurance plans for broader coverage, faster access to private hospitals, and services in English. Tourists visiting Taiwan are strongly advised to purchase travel health insurance covering medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and evacuations.

Auto insurance is mandatory for vehicle owners, and while home insurance is not widely common, some firms offer property insurance including fire and earthquake protection, sometimes with limited availability for foreigners.

Life insurance is available through local and international providers, though premiums can be higher than in the US. Americans often choose term life policies for financial security.

Health Insurance for American Tourists and Expats in Taiwan

National Health Insurance (NHI): Expats living in Taiwan for more than six months or holding an ARC must join NHI, which covers hospitalization, outpatient services, dental care, and some traditional Chinese medicine. Co-payments apply, but overall costs are low.
Private International Health Insurance: Recommended to cover treatments or care not fully included in NHI, reduce out-of-pocket payments, and ensure coverage for evacuation and repatriation. Providers include Allianz, Cigna Global, Bupa Global, April International, and MSH International.
Travel Health Insurance: For short-term visitors, travel insurance plans generally cover emergency medical expenses, hospital stays, baggage loss, trip cancellation, and COVID-19-related coverage.

Example: An American expat enrolled in NHI but also kept private international health insurance to access private hospitals and specialist care in Taipei.

Auto Insurance for Americans Driving in Taiwan

Compulsory Insurance: All vehicle owners must purchase compulsory insurance covering medical expenses for injured parties in the event of a crash.
Additional Third-Party Liability Insurance: Optional but strongly recommended to cover higher claims for property damage and bodily injury.
Driver Injury and Collision Insurance: Available as add-ons for personal protection and vehicle damage.
Insurance premiums vary based on age, gender, and driving history but are generally affordable.
Rental car agencies provide insurance coverage for tourists.

Example: A foreigner driving a car in Taiwan opted for third-party liability and driver injury insurance, ensuring full protection while navigating densely populated urban areas.

Home Insurance for American Expats in Taiwan

Property insurance is not very common in Taiwan as many locals do not purchase home insurance due to cultural and economic reasons.
Banks often require earthquake and fire insurance for mortgage approvals.
Foreigners may face difficulty securing home insurance, but some companies do offer it, covering fire, earthquake, and theft.
Homeowners should shop around and consult brokers experienced with expat clients.

Example: An American expat obtained fire and earthquake insurance on a Taipei apartment through a local insurer willing to insure foreigners.

Life Insurance Options for Americans Living in Taiwan

Life insurance products in Taiwan include term life, whole life, and endowment plans.
Premiums tend to be higher compared to the U.S., and death benefits may be relatively low for the cost.
Many expats prefer purchasing renewable term life insurance with U.S. companies offering international coverage.
Local insurers like Cathay Life and Fubon Life provide policies for foreigners but often require in-person applications.

Example: An American expat bought a renewable term life policy from a U.S. provider for better cost and coverage flexibility while living in Taiwan.

Five Real-Life Insurance Stories from Taiwan

An American visitor used travel health insurance to cover emergency hospitalization after an accident in Taipei.
An expat enrolled in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance but relied on private insurance for access to private clinics.
A tourist’s lost luggage was reimbursed promptly under their comprehensive travel insurance.
An expat secured driver injury insurance protecting them financially after a minor car crash in Taichung.
A foreign homeowner obtained property insurance covering earthquake damage in a northern Taiwan city.

Five Frequently Asked Questions

Is health insurance mandatory for expats in Taiwan?
Yes, expats staying longer than six months or with an Alien Resident Certificate must join Taiwan’s National Health Insurance.
Do tourists need travel insurance for Taiwan?
While not mandatory, travel health insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies and other trip-related risks.
What auto insurance is required for drivers in Taiwan?
Compulsory insurance covering medical expenses of injured parties is mandatory. Additional coverage is recommended.
Is home insurance common in Taiwan?
Home insurance is less common but available, especially for fire and earthquake. Foreigners should seek specialized providers.
Where can Americans get life insurance in Taiwan?
Life insurance is available locally from companies like Cathay Life and Fubon Life, but many expats use U.S. insurers offering international coverage.

Top 5 Insurance Providers in Taiwan for American Tourists and Expats

Insurance Company	Coverage Types	Contact Details
Allianz	International Health, Travel, Life	Website: www.allianz.tw
Cigna Global	International Health and Life	Website: www.cignaglobal.com
Bupa Global	International Health	Website: www.bupaglobal.com
Cathay Life Insurance	Life, Health (local)	Website: www.cathaylife.com.tw
April International	Travel and International Health	Website: www.april-international.com

This guide provides American tourists and expatriates with essential information to choose appropriate insurance coverage in Taiwan, reflecting both local insurance requirements and personal health and safety needs—helping to ensure a secure, worry-free stay.

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