Planning a trip to Taiwan soon? With stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, friendly locals and mouthwatering cuisine, Taiwan has so much to offer visitors.
But as exciting as traveling can be, staying connected abroad remains a challenge for many. International roaming fees from home carriers can add up quickly, making even a short trip financially stressful. And hunting down a local SIM card once you land can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
That’s where eSIMs come in handy! An eSIM (or electronic SIM card) works just like a physical SIM card but exists virtually on your device instead. With an eSIM already installed before you travel, you can connect to a local cellular network as soon as you land in Taiwan with no roaming charges.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting an eSIM for travel in Taiwan, including:
- What is an eSIM and how it works
- Benefits of using an eSIM in Taiwan
- How to choose the best eSIM provider for your trip
- Activating and installing an eSIM before your travels
- Data options, network coverage and more from top Taiwan eSIM providers
- FAQs about eSIMs in Taiwan
Let’s dive in!
What Exactly Is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM card, is a virtual alternative to the regular, physical SIM card required by most cell phones.
Just like a physical SIM card, an eSIM:
- Identifies the user on a cellular network for authentication
- Enables you to connect to local cellular and data networks
- Allows you to make calls, send texts and access the internet
The key difference lies in the technology itself. A traditional SIM card is a small, physical microchip that you insert into your phone. An eSIM, on the other hand, is simply a secure digital ID that’s embedded and activated on your phone or device.
With an eSIM, the hassles of finding, purchasing and inserting a SIM card disappear. You don’t need to wait in long lines at the airport, deal with confusing signage in a foreign language or wrestle with insertion trays.
Because an eSIM connected to a global plan allows you to hop onto local networks in Taiwan and 200+ other countries, it’s ideal for frequent travelers who value both convenience as well as low-cost, high-speed data abroad.
How Do eSIMs Actually Work?
Wondering about the technical aspects of how an eSIM works? Here are the basics:
To use an eSIM, both your phone as well as your cellular provider need eSIM support.
On the device side, most newer smartphone models ― especially iPhones and higher-end Android devices ― have built-in eSIM capabilities. As long as your device was manufactured recently (from 2018 or after), you likely can use an eSIM.
📝 Pro Tip: Check out our list of eSIM compatible devices later in this guide to confirm if your smartphone, watch or tablet supports eSIM.
Cellular carriers have been somewhat slower to adopt eSIM capabilities, although most major providers now offer them, especially in the Asia Pacific region.
When you sign up for an international eSIM plan from a provider with support in Taiwan, what you’re issued is not a physical card, but a secure digital ID profile uniquely tied to you.
Think of it as something like a tiny yet powerful activation code for your device. This eSIM profile allows you to hop onto partner networks in Taiwan once unlocked with a QR scan or manual download.
So unlike a traditional SIM card, which needs to be physically inserted each time you land in a foreign country, an eSIM uses digital authentication to verify identity and provide access to available cellular networks in Taiwan.
This is why eSIMS are so perfect for frequent travelers! The eSIM profile you download before a trip works globally, allowing you to fly into any supported country and connect to high-speed data networks with a few taps − no roaming charges or physical SIM card required.
Why Use an eSIM for Traveling in Taiwan?
Beyond the sheer technology cool factor, eSIMs introduce seamlessness into the experience of staying connected internationally. For anyone who’s struggled through patchy airport WiFi to Google local SIM card options on a trip, this is great news!
Here are just a few of the best benefits that eSIMs bring to travelers in Taiwan:
Avoid International Roaming Charges
One major benefit is cost savings. International roaming rates from home carriers are almost always ridiculously expensive.
Just browsing social media apps for a few minutes with AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon could cost upwards of $10/day. Ouch! Making actual voice calls or using higher bandwidth services like video streaming? Even pricier.
Because an eSIM connects you to a local cellular provider rather than your home carrier, expensive roaming charges don’t apply. With most Taiwan eSIM providers, you simply pay an affordable flat rate for the data you want. Prices generally start around $5 USD for 1 GB of high-speed data valid for 30 days.
Enjoy Fast, Reliable Connections
Trying to rely on hotel or public WiFi abroad rarely ends well. Between dodgy connections, hidden costs, logins and other frustrations, WiFi for travelers can be an exercise in patience.
An eSIM allows you to access LTE, 4G and 5G networks in Taiwan directly so you can avoid worry about WiFi altogether.
Multiple SIMs + Numbers Supported
Dual physical SIM card slots are common on higher-end Android devices these days. And eSIM pairing makes it possible for iPhones to support dual SIM functionality as well.
This means you can use your existing physical SIM card, phone number and plan alongside an eSIM. Toggling between networks and numbers is easy as pie.
For frequent travelers juggling business and personal numbers as they jet around the world, having two active SIMs is a gamechanger.
Use Calling + Texting Features
While some eSIM providers focus exclusively on high-speed data, many also provide affordable options for voice calling minutes and SMS bundles.
Add these to the mix, and a single multi-purpose eSIM keeps you connected abroad without ever needing to touch that dusty international plan from your home mobile carrier.
eSIMs Are Reusable
Last but certainly not least, eSIMs are completely reusable on future trips.
Unlike a plastic physical SIM card which deactivates when you leave the country, an eSIM connects you internationally. So you can install that Taiwan eSIM this month, stash that secure digital profile in your device’s settings when home, and pick up right where you left off on your next visit to Taipei.
No reactivation required apart from topping up your high-speed data balance. For frequent travelers, the long-term savings are substantial.
How to Choose the Best eSIM for Taiwan
While eSIM technology itself might be universally standardized globally, eSIM providers themselves differ widely in countries covered, data packages offered, network partners available and more.
To find the best eSIM specifically for travel in Taiwan, keep the following criteria in mind:
1. Taiwan Coverage + Networks
Naturally, you need an eSIM provider with coverage in Taiwan. Double check destination search results when browsing options.
For the fastest data speeds possible, pick an eSIM partnered directly with top providers Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, Far EasTone or Taiwan Star. Avoid roaming partners.
2. Data Amounts
How much mobile data do you realistically need during your trip duration? Include uses like:
- Google Maps navigation
- Social media & messaging
- Basic internet browsing
- Audio streaming
- Light image sharing
For most travelers focused on the basics, 2 to 5 GB of data for a one to two week trip is sufficient in Taiwan when relying primarily on WiFi networks at your hotel and when out and about.
3. Price Per GB
To maximize value, choose your Taiwan eSIM plan based on the price you pay per GB of high-speed data, rather than the absolute dollar amount. Here’s the math:
Total Price ÷ Included Data Amount = Price Per GB
Generally for travel eSIMs, anything under $10 USD per GB is considered reasonable. Though under $5 per GB is ideal, with $3 per GB or less being a real bargain.
4. Validity Timeframe
Make sure to pick an eSIM plan that covers the entire duration of your trip with a few buffer days included just in case of unexpected delays. Most plans offer durations between 7 days up to 30 days.
Ideally get a 30 day eSIM plan to allow for scheduling flexibility. Need more mid-trip? Extend right from your phone or buy a supplemental data package.
5. Positive Reviews
As when booking travel, read reviews and examine first-hand experiences from fellow travelers who’ve used an eSIM provider abroad. An excellent data plan on paper means little if actual activation issues pop up once you land.
Check review sites like TrustPilot in addition to the Google Play and iOS App Store ratings. Sort by recent and most critical reviews to confirm an eSIM provider delivers solid performance today in Taiwan rather than years ago.
6. Good Customer Service
No matter how skilled we might be with mobile technology, questions and issues can still arise when traveling. From eSIM installation complications and network connectivity problems to questions on extending data plans, fast and effective 24/7 customer service can be key.
Search for eSIM providers with a reputation for quick response times and high-quality care. Live chat integrated with apps is also useful for real-time travel troubleshooting.
Activating and Installing an eSIM for Taiwan
Purchased your Taiwan eSIM plan from a top provider already? Excellent! Now it’s time for the fun part − actually setting up that eSIM on your device before departure.
If you insert physical SIM cards somewhat regularly, you’ll be delighted to discover that the eSIM activation process is far simpler in most cases.
No fiddling around with jewelers screwdrivers to open dusty trays. Simply follow the easy steps below to install your Taiwan eSIM on an iPhone or Android device.
1. Download eSIM Provider App
Nearly all top global eSIM providers have free companion iOS and Android apps which allow you to fully manage your eSIM profile right from your phone screen:
- Easily activate, top up and swap eSIM plans
- Quickly initiate support ticket conversations if issues arise
- Conveniently review detailed account dashboard with usage graphs
Download your chosen Taiwan eSIM provider’s app prior to any activation steps for simple access to your digital profile.
2. Confirm Device Compatibility
Double triple check that your smartphone, tablet or wearable is indeed eSIM compatible before initiation. Attempting installation on a non-supported device will only lead to headaches down the road!
3. Follow On-Screen Prompts
To activate your Taiwan eSIM, follow the step-by-step instructions shown within your provider’s companion app.
Options will vary slightly depending on operating system. But in general you can choose between:
- Direct activation by tapping a virtual button
- Scanning a QR activation code
- Manually entering a lengthy activation code string
We highly recommend the QR code method for simplified setup. Either use your device camera to scan a code displayed on-screen OR point it to a digital code securely emailed to you following purchase.
4. Finish eSIM Activation
Once your eSIM profile begins installation and activation, sit back and wait a few moments.
Let any updates fully complete according to the on-screen messaging shown. Your phone may need to restart once.
When your eSIM finishes activation, dive into cellular settings on your device to confirm proper installation.
You’ll see a new cellular plan labeled with your eSIM provider’s name, such as “Airalo US.” Toggling the plan off and on is possible here before travel.
5. Connect to Local Taiwan Network
That’s it − you did it! Your Taiwan eSIM is now loaded, activated and ready for seamless travel connectivity abroad.
Upon landing in Taipei, Taoyuan or elsewhere simply:
- Open device settings
- Enable Cellular Data
- Turn on your eSIM plan
- Toggle Data Roaming ON
- Select a partner Taiwan network like Chunghwa or Far EasTone
This allows your device to hop aboard a local mobile network. Expect blazing fast, affordable LTE speeds in seconds minus long setup or account funding!
Comparing Taiwan eSIM Providers
Wondering which eSIM provider to choose for your Taiwan trip? Let’s examine key features from top global options:
A: Airalo
From digital pioneers Airalo, we appreciate the highly competitive data packages paired with outstanding network coverage spanning well over 200 destinations.
This eSIM provider partners directly with Chunghwa Telecom in Taiwan as their primary network. Connection therefore feels reliably local rather than third-party.
30 day validity plans with 1 to 50 GB allow for outstanding flexibility on longer trips with mid-stay data extensions available anytime. We’re also impressed with Airalo’s rock-solid 4.7 TrustPilot rating from 20,000+ recent reviews − signaling excellent customer satisfaction levels today.
B: Truphone
As the first eSIM provider to launch back in 2017, UK-based Truphone offers a polished experience yet fewer local network integrations in Taiwan than other options we evaluated.
10 GB of high-speed data spread over 30 days runs $70 USD – an expensive rate compared to competitors. Yet free incoming SMS messages and 60 minutes of calling provide value for remote workers and business travelers.
With support across just 24 destinations, Truphone plans best suit jet setters sticking to common hot spots like Western Europe and North America rather than venturing widely across Asia.
FAQs About Getting an eSIM in Taiwan
1. Do I need an eSIM in Taiwan?
An eSIM for Taiwan is entirely optional, but brings excellent convenience by granting affordable access to fast LTE and 5G data networks run by top local carriers.
Rather than deal with public WiFi limitations or pay sky-high international roaming fees to your home mobile provider, a Taiwan eSIM keeps you connected.
2. Can I use eSIM in Taiwan on iPhone and Android?
Yes, definitely! Given proper global plan activation before departure, both iPhone and Android devices fully support using an eSIM in Taiwan provided they have eSIM compatibility.
Even many newer smartphone models contain dual SIM slots able to house one physical SIM and one eSIM simultaneously. Tablets and watches with cellular connectivity do too in many cases.
To double check whether your specific Apple, Samsung, Google or other mobile device supports eSIM functionality:
👉 See our List of eSIM Compatible Devices
3. Where to buy eSIM in Taiwan?
Given the complexity of working directly with foreign-language websites run by Taiwanese carriers, we advise purchasing your Taiwan eSIM in advance rather than attempting to acquire one locally upon arrival.
Global third party eSIM providers offer outstanding English-language websites, iOS & Android apps for simplified setup, good value pricing and worldwide customer support versus DIY local pickup.
4. Do Taiwan eSIMs work in other countries?
It depends! Some Taiwan eSIM providers create plans exclusively intended for use within the country. Read terms carefully before traveling onwards.
Other companies like Airalo however offer broad region or worldwide plans, allowing you to install a single eSIM in Taiwan then carry coverage over should you continue adventures in nearby destinations across Asia.
5. How to get MRT access using eSIM?
Taiwan’s speedy, affordable metro systems utilize RFID and NFC-based travel cards rather than relying on local SIM cards.
Purchase an EasyCard, iPass or other reloadable travel card upon arrival at stations to pay discounted fares. Then simply scan on gated turnstiles when entering and exiting trains without the need for a SIM.
List of eSIM Compatible Devices
Before attempting eSIM installation, please confirm your mobile phone, tablet, smartwatch or other device supports eSIM functionality:
👉 See Full List of eSIM Compatible Devices
As a general rule of thumb, most Apple iPhones from iPhone XS, XR or newer work flawlessly with eSIMs. Higher-end Samsung models are widely compatible too. Check specific device models against the list above.
Can’t find your exact iPhone, Google Pixel or other gadget referenced? Reach out directly to your eSIM provider’s customer support team prior to purchase. Or contact your device manufacturer for eSIM support details.
Using an eSIM in Taiwan: Final Thoughts
We hope this complete guide has helped answer all your questions surrounding eSIM usage for travelers headed to Taiwan.
By allowing convenient access to low-cost local data networks run by top carriers, eSIMs remove much frustration that typically surrounds staying connected abroad.
Do you have any other questions not covered about using an eSIM card in Taiwan that we can help answer? Let us know in the comments section below!
