Prepaid SIM card for Taiwan: All you need to know

How to get mobile internet in Taiwan: Is a SIM card the best option?

A local SIM card gives affordable mobile data, local calls, and texts without the nightmare of roaming charges. But there's a catch: getting one takes time and effort. You'll have to:

1. Find a store or kiosk that sells prepaid SIM cards.

2. Show two forms of ID for registration.

3. Make sure your phone is unlocked and works with Taiwanese networks.

4. Swap out your existing SIM, which means losing access to your home number.

If that sounds like a hassle, it's because it is. Getting an eSIM for Taiwan is a smarter move. Your connection kicks in the moment you land with no extra steps. So, if convenience is your priority, skip the traditional SIM card and go straight for an eSIM.

Which is the best SIM card for tourists in Taiwan?

If you still prefer a physical Taiwan SIM card, here are the top providers.

Chunghwa Telecom

Taiwan’s biggest telecom provider, Chunghwa Telecom, offers the widest coverage, including in remote areas. This SIM card is your best bet if you want consistently high download speeds with no surprises. It also provides prepaid plans tailored for tourists, which include unlimited data and call credits applicable to both local and international calls.

You’ll find Chunghwa Telecom counters at major Taiwanese airports:

• Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Terminal 1 (Counter #6), Terminal 2 (Counter #2)

• Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH): International Terminal, Arrival Hall

• Songshan Airport (TSA): Arrival Hall, across from International Arrivals near Gate E

• Taichung International Airport (RMQ): Departure Hall

You can also buy Chunghwa SIM cards at retail stores across Taiwan or pre-order online through KKday and Klook for easy pickup.

Taiwan Mobile

Taiwan Mobile has a reliable network in cities and towns, competitive pricing, and tourist-friendly Taiwan SIM options, including an unlimited data plan.

You can pick up a SIM card as soon you land:

• Taoyuan Airport (TPE): Terminal 1 arrival area, near the escalators to the street level, and Terminal 2 arrival area

• Kaohsiung (KHH): arrival area

• Songshan (TSA): arrival area

You’ll also find carrier stores across the country, including one at Taipei main station. For extra convenience, pre-order online and pick up at the airport.

Far EasTone (FET)

A solid alternative to the big two, Far EasTone (FET) offers strong coverage in urban areas and a variety of prepaid Taiwan SIM card plans. Its network is not as extensive in rural areas but still reliable.

Find Far EasTone SIM cards at these major airports:

• Taoyuan Airport (TPE): Terminal 1 (first floor) and Terminal 2 (first and third floors)

• Kaohsiung (KHH): International terminal (first floor)

• Songshan (TSA): arrival area

Far EasTone SIMs are also available at official retail stores and electronics shops. While FET doesn’t sell tourist SIMs directly on its website, you can easily purchase them through KKday and Klook for pickup at the airport.

Recap of the best SIM cards for Taiwan

If you need the absolute best coverage, go with Chunghwa Telecom. For a cheaper but still solid option, Taiwan Mobile works well. Far EasTone is a good pick if you're staying in urban areas.

Where to get a SIM card for Taiwan

Buying a tourist SIM card in Taiwan is easy if you know where to look. Here's where you can find one:

1. Airport mobile phone kiosks:

   • Available at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and smaller Songshan (TSA) and Kaohsiung (KHH) airports.

   • Usually open during flight hours.

   • More expensive than city stores but convenient.

2. Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart):

   • Available everywhere in Taiwan.

   • Not all locations handle SIM card registration — check before buying.

3. Telecom retail stores:

   • The three biggest telecoms have stores across Taiwan.

   • Staff can help with activation and troubleshooting.

   • Longer wait times than at airport mobile stores.

4. Online pre-order and airport pickup (Klook, KKday, and other platforms):

   • Buy a prepaid SIM card voucher before departing for Taiwan. The voucher has no expiration date.

   • Pick up your card at designated counters in Taiwan’s airports, including Taoyuan Airport. To find the exact location, go to the platform’s page, select the airport under “Pick-up location,” and check the “Package details” section for specific instructions.

   • Usually cheaper than buying on the spot at the airport.

What to know before buying a SIM card for Taiwan 

Before picking up a Taiwan SIM card, keep these things in mind:

• You need two forms of ID: your passport and secondary identification (entry permit, visa, driver’s license, resident certificate, or student ID).

• Your phone must be unlocked — check with your carrier before your trip.

• Know how much data you need. Most tourist SIMs offer unlimited data, but speeds may vary based on fair usage policies. 

• The validity period starts from the moment of activation, not purchase.

• Consider a Taiwan eSIM to skip the lines, activate instantly, and keep your home number active.

Do you really need a SIM card in Taiwan?

A Taiwan tourist SIM card is nice to have if you need a local mobile phone number. For most travelers, an eSIM is the smarter choice for the following reasons:

• Instant activation. No need to waste time finding an airport store, waiting in line, or dealing with paperwork.

• No physical SIM swap. Keep your home number active for calls and texts while using local data.

• Flexible data options. Whether you need data for a few days or a month, eSIMs offer a range of options, so you only pay for what you need.

• Works immediately. The moment your plane touches down, your eSIM is ready to go. There's no need to search for Wi-Fi or struggle with slow airport connections.

Instead of waiting in line at the airport or dealing with a physical SIM card, download an eSIM and enjoy hassle-free connectivity. Some providers even offer regional plans, like eSIM for Asia, which means you can cross borders without switching SIMs or carriers.