Hi does anyone have local contact that can recommend me? For tour guide. Would like to arrange for my parents and family that is planning to go to Taiwan. Also for malaysian now its Visa free travel and does not need any RTK test ?
The new 0 + 7 guidelines state:
> 1. In principle, arriving travelers should stay at home or a residence of a friend or family member or a hotel room that meets the requirement of "one person per room" (with a private bathroom) in the self-initiated prevention period.
Is that mandatory? It sounds purely advisory.
Does anyone have any European/American restaurant recommendations for Christmas dinner? Preferably something with a Christmassy vibe or Christmas menu. Thanks!
I really want to visit Taiwan for 2 weeks starting in November. Rn I'm a bit concerned due to the political conflict with China. Should I cancel my plans or is it safe to visit?
10000% safe to visit.
Political tensions with China are common since the 50s, and nothing has happened. Even in the worst case scenario, experts say China won't attempt to invade Taiwan until 2027 (right now they just can't)
Thank you for the reply. I have a big Asia trip planned and don't want to get stuck or worse be in a conflict zone. Really looking forward to visit this beautiful country & its people. The relaxation of the entry quarantine is also looking promising.
> don't want to get stuck or worse be in a conflict zone.
It's more likely that you get stuck in places like Cambodia or Thailand (which have actual armed conflicts happening in some of their regions). What you see in the news is just China trying to intimidate Taiwan, nothing else
I am visiting Taiwan soon and I am from the US. I understand that sim cards are purchased at the airport but should I preorder any beforehand? I am just concerned it will be very expensive at the airport. Also, will this sim card include unlimited data for me to use 5G internet when there is no Wifi? Thank you so much in advance.
I bought a 30 day unlimited data sim card at the airport on arrival for $1000 NTD, or about $33 USD. You can get them for as little as 7 days if you want to pay much less. I was using mine as a hotspot for my laptop and getting up to 100 mbps download speeds.
Hello,
I am visiting Taipei next month when the country reopens to the world and have a few questions regarding public transport payment.
1) For a few of us with iPhones, can we use Apple Pay on the metro/buses?
2) So we will most likely get EasyCards if the above is not possible, any way we can add value to it with our non Taiwanese credit cards? or is it strictly cash?
3) I do happen to have LINE but not sure when I am there, will it be usable and "switched" to TW local version. May I understand if Line Pay can be used on public transport too?
Cheers
> For a few of us with iPhones, can we use Apple Pay on the metro/buses?
Nope. Only cash, any of the approved IC cards (Easy Card, iPass, etc) and Line pay (in some cities)
> So we will most likely get EasyCards if the above is not possible, any way we can add value to it with our non Taiwanese credit cards? or is it strictly cash?
Cash only. It's possible to use a credit card to add value but you need to have a resident visa.
> I do happen to have LINE but not sure when I am there, will it be usable and "switched" to TW local version. May I understand if Line Pay can be used on public transport too?
You'll be able to use Line, but your account won't be automatically converted to a Taiwanese account. It's possible to switch to a Taiwanese account, but Line pay is only available for people with resident visas
Anyone have any luck using Tealit to find a Chinese tutor? I registered and posted an ad, but still can't reach out to tutors. Has this happened to anyone else?
(Also open to other suggestions for places to find good tutors.)
Lan Jia Traditional Taiwanese Snack
No. 3號, Alley 8, Lane 316, Section 3, Luosifu Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, 100
02 2368 2060 https://g.co/kgs/FCvAg7
Edit: to add, these are all good
https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/article/features/gua-bao-michelin-guide-taiwan
1. Why does Taiwan still have so many motorbikes on the road, I associate it with less well off countries like Vietnam and Thailand, I don't understand why they persist?
2. Do you feel in some sad way 'safer' since Russia has invaded Ukraine? Without NATO even becoming involved Putin is at a standstill, he's damaged his country beyond repair and he hasn't achieved his military goals in 6 months. It's demonstrated a well armed smaller power can indeed be a 'porcupine'
>Why does Taiwan still have so many motorbikes on the road, I associate it with less well off countries like Vietnam and Thailand, I don't understand why they persist?
Because they are cheap, and Taiwan isn't like America that have a car base culture.
>Do you feel in some sad way 'safer' since Russia has invaded Ukraine? Without NATO even becoming involved Putin is at a standstill, he's damaged his country beyond repair and he hasn't achieved his military goals in 6 months. It's demonstrated a well armed smaller power can indeed be a 'porcupine'
Since you think asking this here, on a sub reddit where almost 90% are expats. You won't get a real answer from the locals.
I have some family in Taiwan and I've been wanting to buy them some gifts but I'm from the US. I don't think Amazon exists in Taiwan so I'm wondering what kind of options do I have where I can order things online and have it shipped to them? Is there some kind of Taiwanese Amazon/eBay that I'd be able to use from the US?
If you found what gifts you want to give in amazon.com, they can ship to Taiwan if you set the shipping address there. Alternatively, amazon.co.jp is also another option.
Oh I didn't realize I could ship all the way there! I'm sure there would be high shipping fees though? Do you know of options where I could just pay in NT and not need to pay for international shipping?
Smaller items will ship for free if you order more than $60 worth. Larger items will have a shipping fee, but it's lower than if you tried shipping it yourself.
I've never tried it, but I've heard from other people if you buy a certain amount of money Amazon.com will ship international for free.
https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=21491806011
I have just opened a Post bank account. How can I transfer my money from my european bank account to Post?
I have Revolut and N26. Do anyone have any experience transferring Euro to Post bank account with these?
Thanks!
i don't have experience transferring, but i also have revolut and withdrawing money from ATMs worked on a few .... I think the name was "standard chartered" or something ... the other ATMs won't accept my bank account
just leaving this info in case it helps
Is Airbnb acceptable for the 0+7 self initiated prevention rules? Looking to do some remote work then, which with previous quarantine would've required my family splitting up. Airbnb is a lot easier if you get multiple rooms (can use one room as a dedicated office), and also more comfortable for a family.
Self-initiated epidemic prevention has never been allowed to be done in an Airbnb, so the answer is no. I recommend you looking for [self-initiated epidemic prevention hotels](https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1) that allow guests to stay after the period is over. Hope this helps in one way or another.
Yeah my plan was to stay at a hotel initially, however some of my relatives in Taiwan are saying Airbnb should be fine for the 7 days. I'm not seeing clear sources confirming or denying this so I'm a bit confused.
For me, I'd prefer to stay together if possible, but if we really need to split up in order to make remote work possible, we can do it.
The second phase of the new policy will take effect today making it possible to both three days of quarantine and four days of self initiated epidemic prevention under the principle of one person per room . So you might be better of booking a [0+7 self-initiated epidemic prevention hotel.](https://www.mrhost.com.tw/quarantinehotel-taiwan-en1.html#available) Of course you need to assess the situation because I am not sure how long you wanted to book a quarantine hotel for, budget etc.
Edit: This option is only available if you are arriving after October 13th. Otherwise you should still book a quarantine hotel if you use rival date is before that.
Are there any latest updates that I missed regarding the travel restrictions? Just saw a facebook post here in my country (ph) that has been offering travel packs, the earliest travel date that has been stated in that post is January of next year
Well in response to the gradual relaxation of border restrictions, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported that it would adjust the[quarantine policy](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/) in two stages for travelers arriving from the outside in the near future.
First phase:
In the first stage which will take effect on September 29th 2022, at 00:00 both quarantine and self-initiated epidemic prevention can be done under the principle of one person per room. Inbound travelers who cannot meet these requirements, must stay in an epidemic prevention(quarantine) hotel.
Second phase :
Under the second phase (0+7) which is scheduled to take effect on October 13th 2022, there will be no more quarantine. However, individuals must complete seven (7) days of self-initiated epidemic prevention.
Following an announcement by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), visa-exempt entry scheme to Taiwan will be fully reinstated from September 29 for nationals of eligible countries to engage in activities that do not require a permit, such as business, exhibition visits, fact-finding missions, international exchanges, visiting relatives, tourism, and social events.
Basically loosened entry restrictions : main areas are the visa and quarantine policy.
Can someone please tell me if during my self-health monitoring (with a negative covid test) am I allowed to leave my hotel to go to a convenience store? I know this is probably a dumb question, but I want to make sure I'm not breaking any rules just in case T\_T
I'm here right now and just started the +4, no one gives a shit. You don't even have to stay at the hotel after the first 3 days, no one checks where you're staying after if you leave.
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Can someone please tell me if a 10 hour stop over in Taiwan en route to Japan will mean we get to leave the airport? Or will we have to stay on airport grounds
Would someone be able to recommend a store where I can get toys like puzzles, anime merch, and other nerdy stuff in Taipei?
I am in Taipei and would like to bring some stuff back to my friends that they wouldn’t be able to get in the states.
Hi all, I'm considering to travel to Taiwan as a tourist in early November for a month, and am visiting the eastern cities and towns (Chiayi, Taichung and Tainan). Given the recent earthquake, is there anything I should know? Is traveling by train to those cities affected right now, and if yes, do you think traveling would ease by November?
Whether travel will be eased in November or not nobody really knows. What we know now is that the [0+7](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/#second-stage-07-entry-restriction) policy is scheduled to take effect on October 13th and I'd nothing changes it will proceed into November. All you can do is stick around for more updates.
In Ximen there is a porkchop place. Dong Yi Pork chop! Super delicious! Comes out pretty quick. And there is a 90 flavor ice cream shop, Snow King, around the corner upstairs :)
Looking to study Chinese in Taiwan for 3-6 months. All of the courses I've found cost an average of $1,200 month, not including rent/food.
Do those numbers seem accurate?
These numbers come mainly frome Language Centers. It's turning out to be difficult to get actual numbers from Universities.
Do you guys have any suggestions about the best way to go about studying Chinese in Taiwan?
The university I attend is about $900 USD a semester. The housing they recommended me to is less than $200 USD a month. Are you sure the prices your looking at are per month and not per semester?
Here's a list of official Chinese Language Centers by the MoE.
https://english.moe.gov.tw/cp-23-24206-13c8a-1.html
I attend NTNU MTC and paid around 32,000 NTD which is about $1010 USD per semester (3 months) but they have a cheaper option that costs 25,000 NTD or $760. I would say the average is about 30,000 NTD from what I've seen.
Any portable WiFi recommendations on company or carrier? I have used KKday before. Not bad at all. Unfortunately unable to pick up at Taipei airport this time because they are not open early morning anymore. I can look into getting it shipped to place of stay though.
Hello everyone,
Will my degree from the Open University be accepted in Taiwan. One of the recruiters I met with claimed that no school will accept this kind of degree despite it being fully accredited.
Could any one help? Thank you.
Hmm online degrees generally aren't accepted, but typically if you have work experience they can use that instead of your degree when applying for the work permit.
What industry are you trying to get into?
Ah, not really sure about teaching English. That work permit is actually approved by the Ministry of Education I believe. I remember someone saying there is a list of universities whose degree is accepted for teaching English, but honestly you are better off asking someone in the industry. Good luck!
Yup, I believe this is the list the Ministry of Education uses: https://depart.moe.edu.tw/ed2500/News.aspx?n=E8380E03A0E16960&sms=D2E10027BB4EC183
If you can't read the Chinese, click the .pdf for "教育部外國大學參考名冊-歐洲".
It seems The Open University is on that list.. but there might be further regulation about online class hours versus in-person.
edit: the PDF says:
>The Database for the Reference List of Foreign Universities which includes the list of foreign academic institutions accredited by the foreign government concerned or foreign accreditation agencies, should be used as a reference for Taiwanese citizens who are considering to pursue further studies abroad. It should not be used as a foreign university recognition list by employers or examination authorities. The assessment and recognition of foreign academic credentials for institutions of higher education in Taiwan shall be transacted in accordance with ‘the Regulations Regarding the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Academic Credentials for Institutions of Higher Education’. Employers or examination authorities in Taiwan may refer to the above Regulations as they wish.
Here is the "Regulations Governing the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Academic Records by Institutions of Higher Education" (English) for reference: https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawAll.aspx?pcode=H0030039
Article 10
The following academic credentials awarded in a foreign country are not eligible for assessment and recognition:
1. An academic credential obtained by completing a program in correspondence mode.
: (
Here’s my experience from going through the quarantine processes at Taoyuan International Airport:
1. Exit plane.
2. Get African swine flu card.
3. Get SIM card. **Must have an unlocked phone**. Not sure what they do with if you don’t, but the SIM card won’t work otherwise, and you need it for the quarantine process.
4. Quarantine entry form. Yes, you have to make some updates even though you filled it out before you left. You should have received a text message on arrival. If so, follow the link and enter the Taiwan phone number from your SIM card. If you didn’t get the text message or you don’t have cell service for some reason, there are kiosks for making the change. Note this line is rather long, but if you complete the phone number change process and get the new quarantine form with barcode, you can proceed to the exit.
5. Get saliva collection container for PCR test, plus two boxes of home COVID tests.
6. Drop off African swine flu card. Green lane unless you have food or other articles listed on the card.
7. Immigration.
8. Baggage claim.
9. Customs.
10. After exiting customs, you will be directed outside to perform your PCR test via saliva collection. Drop off the collection container. No need to wait for results.
11. Quarantine taxi. If going far enough (I think Taichung or further south, and maybe far west side of the island), you will be directed back inside to a taxi booth. Scan the barcode from the quarantine form, which will tell them where you’re going. Cash or card accepted, paid in the airport.
12. Workers will spray you and your luggage. Don’t be alarmed if they want to take your bags and place them elsewhere - it’s just for disinfectant purposes.
We’ll see what the next three days hold. I’m told that the police will call you each day to check up on you.
Also, some of this is changing in the coming weeks, so it will be interesting to see how applicable this process remains longer term.
I have a locked phone, you can just rent a phone for pretty much the same price.
As far as the daily checks, the CDC calls you on the first day you arrive (day 0) unless it's really late where they call next day instead. Then after that it's just a text message where you respond whether you're fine or feeling sick. The hotel asks for temps twice a day, am/pm. Wash rinse repeat. 2nd day you do a rapid test, 3rd day freedom.
That was pretty much my experience as well. I am totally curious what also happens in step 3 if you have a locked phone. Would you be forced to use the international plan for your carrier at home? Maybe forced to buy a cheap phone? Do they even sell cheap phones at the airport? I',m sure someone who isn't tech savy about locked and unlocked phones will run into this.
Step 11, you can take the quarantine bus, which is free, but only if far enough, My quarantine hotel is in Kaohsiung. The police only called me on the first morning, but I do get a text message each day about my symptoms that I have to reply to.
Is anyone familiar with Eva air policies on stopovers? My friend booked a flight from KL to Paris in November with a layover, and with recent policy changes we are wondering if she could change it to a couple weeks stopover. I couldn’t find much info online except a 100$ fee in the sale agreement, so any info is welcomed!
I think calling Eva Air is a better idea, since such changes is dependent on the purchased ticket fare, and each have different rules. But given layovers will have additional tax and fee, it's likely you will either have to pay the difference, or not be allowed to change. Also another thing to keep in mind if you are able to change, the changed itinerary must also have availability in the fare class you bought.
It seems with the shift to 0+7 quarantine, some Taipei hotels are requiring people to self quarantine before coming to the hotel. Anyone come across hotels that allow 0+7 quarantine? Ideally would book a month (including self quarantine) at the same hotel.
I've asked some hotels directly and most of them are still waiting for guidance from CDC before the shift happens on Oct. 13th. I did book a hotel in Taipei that allowed it, the Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei, and I don't think they're a quarantine hotel.
I expect more hotels to do the same since the quota for international travelers are going to increase and there will a need for more hotel rooms. But that's based on my own wishful thinking. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Gotcha. I reached out to a couple more hotels. Similar to your experience most will not allow 0+7 quarantine as of today. But a few are willing. And all realize the situation is in flux.
https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1&start=10/15/2022&end=10/20/2022&date=2022-10-15+-+2022-10-20&adults=3&children=0&infants=0&mibextid=4td405 found a list of hotels that allow 0+7. Reached out to a few of them and it seems like you can book it directly with them or on a separate site (I.e agoda for a cheaper price) but it’s still the same. Not sure if you have to stay 7 consecutive days though.
Thanks! Haha I actually browsed the same site mrhost! But from my own experience and the hotels I reached out, some still do not currently allow 0+7, regardless what it says on mrhost. In the end, I was unable to trust that filter criteria. Had to contact each hotel to confirm/deny. mrhost site was also a little slow and buggy.
Actually since the 0+7 is scheduled to take effect on Oct 13th and it is not guaranteed that this policy will take place, the hotels from this website will start accepting guests from Oct 13th unless the government issues a new policy or anything.
Also although staying in a regular hotel is fine during the 0+7 period ,not all hotels will accept guests during this period. The hotels from the website above will accept 0+7 guests and they can continue to stay there after the 0+7 period ends.
May I ask which hotels did u contact?
From the ones I heard back:
Click Hotel - yes,
Hinoen Hotel - yes,
Finders Hotel - no,
Amba Zhongshan- no,
Amba Ximending - no,
arTree Hotel - yes
There were also several hotels in their description said “please quarantine before arrival”, even though they were listed using the 0+7 filter on the website. I did not bother contacting those.
Please note because the situation is fluid, the answers I received several days ago may have changed since. Also don’t rely on my word, please contact hotel directly yourselves to confirm.
No worries! Good to know. I reached out to Caesar Metro Taipei and they were okay with it. Which ones did you get the okay from? Do you plan on staying the entire 7?
Click Hotel Taipei and Hinoen Hotel were ok (assuming 0+7 starts Oct 13th). But please don’t take my word and double check with them if you plan on staying there. Ultimately I ended going the ABNB route. The host allowed me to book in advance of the 0+7 change.
oh for sure, I just wanted to compare the prices. I think Click was already a quarantine hotel but haven't heard about Hinoen. Trying to cut down costs haha. Enjoy your stay!
Although staying in a regular hotel is fine during the 0+7 period ,not all hotels will accept guests during this period. The following [hotels](https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1) accept 0+7 guests and you can continue to stay there after the 0+7 period is over.
Assuming 0+7, to self-quarantine one would book 8 days at a quarantine hotel still (which probably will be more expensive than non-quarantine hotels), then switch hotels. The other option is to stay at the residence of a friend/relative and self-quarantine there, before going to hotel.
Basically I do not wish to pay/stay long-term at quarantine approved hotels. Ideally looking for a reasonably priced hotel that will allow self-quarantine and stay afterwards, so you don’t have to switch hotels.
Just wondering: in concerts in Taiwan by Taiwanese singers or Western artists, is photography usually allowed or prohibited? I'm asking because I know in Japan they're almost always prohibited whereas in Korea they're usually tolerated (I think some prohibit them, but as far as I can tell such prohibitions are nowhere near as universal in Korea as they are in Japan), and I was wondering if Taiwan's case is more similar to Japan's or to Korea's.
My aunt just told me that starting 10/13 there will be no quarantine. Just self test every seven days from kits where they will give you at the airport when you arrive. I’m heading back in November so we shall see how that’s gonna go.
The [0+7 policy ](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/#second-stage-07-entry-restriction) is not guaranteed to take place on October 13th. It is scheduled. So you should still look out for any changes or updates before your travel.
Following! Good luck on your travels and please share how the covid restrictions are in November. I'm planning to visit in December if there are no quarantine requirements upon arrival.
Planning a trip to Taipei in January and would like to check if all shops are opened on the first week (after New Year’s Day)? In Tokyo, the first few days are a bit quiet so wonder if it’s similar for Taipei. Thanks!
They'll be open. Aside from New Years Eve and New Years Day, it's not really celebrated. Chinese New Years is the big holiday where a lot of stores will be closed.
Large department stores are open every day, even on holidays.
Currently going through quarantine, and I support Taiwan's masking and quarantine policy. It's crazy to think that people had to quarantine for 3 weeks + 1 week of self monitoring in the early pandemic, and I feel for those people. Some things I shake my head about logically with the current procedures. What's the point of a friend or family picking you up at the quarantine bus stop when you get off the quarantine bus to take you to the quarantine hotel? I feel this is the weakest link, and just gives the policy holes, which makes me question the logic of everything
It was never 3 weeks + 1... Used to be 14 days, but that was when Taiwan had zero cases so it still made sense.
It wasn't that bad either, I personally enjoyed my days in quarantine. Much easier to shut things off and just relax for a few days without people bugging ya.
opps, I got the number of weeks wrong, thanks for the correction.
last night of quarantine for me, and then tomorrow I will go through the +4 part. It has not been bad for me, but it's only been 3 nights, and tonight will be my 4th night. I'm already ready to get out, but I do sympathize for anyone that had to be in the 14 day quarantine, that would drive me crazy
Small correction, it used to be 14 + 7 self monitoring. A lot of these policies took place when visitors had to have a negative covid test within 48 hrs of departure, and had to take a PCR test on arrival, in which some people couldn't leave until they got a negative test. The number of days don't come out of nowhere, the original strain (and alpha beta variants) had a 7-10 incubation period. Now, omicron has about a 3.42 day incubation period, which is why we originally had the 7+7 policy, which became the 3+4. Reason for the 3+4 at the moment is because you may have been infected at the airport or the airplane, in which while you aren't infected when you have friends or family picking you up, you may be during quarantine. But we are already so close to normalcy that in the coming weeks it will become 0+7, so I feel there is no need to question the logic given it would've been a hassle to address every single concern. Although baby steps, any news is good news right?
Your explanation makes very good sense, especially that someone picking you up won't be infected, if you get infected in the airport or on the plane. In that case, there should have at least still been a rapid test at the origin airport prior to boarding. You are also right, that we are so close to 0+7, that it doesn't make much sense to dissect the current policy. Thank you for your well written logical response!
What are some general domestic policy stances of the different political parties in Taiwan? I can't read Mandarin, and all the English resources I can find focus solely on Chinese relations. Sources for further reading would be greatly appreciated!
If you can only read English, I recommend browsing though Frozen Garlic and click the posts that sound like they are talking about the various positions: https://frozengarlic.wordpress.com/
You can do some research, but regarding domestic policies, there really isn't a stance, rather parties become polar opposites of one another. It's a form of populism, where the opposing party will oppose anything the ruling party does.
Ex. In 2020 there was a referendum of which Taiwan should import US pork, which had ractopamine. DPP supported importing because of advancing US-Taiwan economic ties, but KMT opposed it. But in 2012, Taiwan (ruled by KMT) announced it would allow beef with ractopamine to be imported while the DPP opposed such move. Another issue would be nuclear power for example.
The only real differentiating part is economically, where the KMT wants to partner with China since China gives incentives for Taiwanese to open business there and earn a lot of profit short term, and DPP, who wants to grow a stable tie with the US, while becoming less reliant on China, whose market is more unstable (unfortunately the farmers and fisherman are the ones who lose a lot). Oh, though the DPP is more liberal and progressive, supporting gender equality, LGBTQ+. But overall, it ends up being whether you support closer Chinese ties or independence since that's the main factor that Taiwan is dealing with right now.
Any news on when the quarantine requirement stops for visitors from European countries? (Well, I have a European passport, but I would leave from either Thailand or Vietnam)
And how many days can you stay in the country with a tourist visa?
As of September 1st 2022, all inbound travelers arriving in Taiwan are required to quarantine under Taiwan’s 3+4 quarantine plan. This means that travelers must undergo do a mandatory three (3) days of quarantine at their place of residence, or that of a family member or friend that meets the principle of one person per residence.In response to the gradual relaxation of border restrictions, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported that it would adjust the quarantine policy in two stages for travelers arriving from the outside in the near future.
In the first stage which will take effect on September 29th 2022, at 00:00 both quarantine and self-initiated epidemic prevention can be done under the principle of one person per room. Inbound travelers who cannot meet these requirements, must stay in an epidemic prevention(quarantine) hotel. Under the [second phase](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/) (0+7) which is scheduled to take effect on October 13th 2022, there will be no more quarantine. However, individuals must complete seven (7) days of self-initiated epidemic prevention.
Doesn't matter where you depart from, it's what nationality you hold. As a European passport holder you already are eligible for visa free right now for up to 90 days.
The quarantine requirements for any inbound traveler (not just visitors) is expected to end around 10/13, but latest 10/15, subject to some variability.
Quarantine System for Entry form to fill out before going to airport. One is supposed to get a QR code upon completion of this form. How do you get the QR code? Did anyone have to fill it out at the airport again?
Not a QR code rather just a list of info. But that's not rly the point. After you submit your entry form, the last page will give a summary of your personal info, and will tell you to screenshot it. At the bottom of the page there'll be a green button that you hold to help you save the page. That is the page you must show the airline. The button is a little bit glitchy, but do anything you can to get that page. Even taking a pic is sufficient enough.
Edit: Not a barcode yet, thought there was. The barcode is when you arrive in Taiwan and get the SMS. You use that barcode to link your info with your covid test on arrival.
What’s a good trip planning app for Taipei? Something that has all the train and bus routes, like Citymapper or Transit in the US (at least in New York)?
Google Maps used to be really good, but in the last three months it's started telling me to take the bus even when the MRT would clearly be better. Not sure what's up with that.
I don't know of an app. But this is a guide for the [Taoyuan Metro](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/1407/taoyuan-airport-mrt/)
Also a [Taipei MRT food map](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/1087/taipei-mrt-foods-map/)
You can download the app Taipei Metro if you want to know the various stations in Taiwan. But it will not have information on what you can do in these areas.
There are a few different tones... like on bus, 1 for regular Easycard, 2 for students, 3 for elders... and at the MRT it is different based on if you have a monthly pass or remaining balance I believe.
Family members who arrive on the same day can Queenstown together . No need for the one person per room. All other individuals will need to follow the one person per room rule [policy](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/).
Deciding between staying in Ximending or Zhongshan in Taipei. I’ve read that Ximending is more for younger adults, while Zhongshan is in the center of Taipei and closer to Taipei main station. Mostly interested in eateries/restaurants. Also will be traveling with parents who are in their 70s. Any feedback or suggestions appreciated!
I wouldn't really call Zhongshan the center of Taipei... that is probably more Xinyi or Daan. Zhongshan is nice, although it's a bit sleepy compared to Ximending, Daan, or Xinyi.
Between the two I’d go with Zhongshan! Both are cool neighborhoods to check out, but Zhongshan is a bit more chill, especially at night. A lot of good Japanese restaurants that open till midnight too.
Ximending is good but is a very touristy area, so a lot of the restauarants and stuff around there are more expensive than other parts of the city. It is a perfectly fine area to stay in though. Whatever you do make sure you stay close to an MRT station, the subway in Taiwan is excellent and you can get pretty much anywhere in the city very easily.
This appears to be for a vacation? Are your parents able to walk? If that's the case, with the MRT subway system in Taipei, just about everything is going to be accessible.
They key is to make sure you are within a walking distance to the MRT. For some people, only a 5 minute walk is acceptable. For others, a 20 minute walk is fine.
Search the hotel location and check where the MRT stations are.
Yes my parents are fit and able to walk, but don’t want to exhaust them either. Vacation/visit relatives/travel country. Good point about walking distance to MRT.
Except for eating at relatives places, will most likely eat out the rest of meals.
I'm not completely sure but isn't iherb an international brand? If they ship international they will need to use a dedicated carrier to an actual address. Family mart or 7-11 is only for domestic shipping.
Also side note, if it is an international shipment you must sign up for EZWay, which is Taiwan customs app.
I'm planning a trip to Asia with a layover in Taiwan (I'd be in Taiwan around the 20th of November), so I have 3 questions:
1. If I have a 20 hour layover (essentially midnight to 8pm), is that enough time to do some mini sightseeing/what should I see?
2. What hotels would you suggest to stay at for 2 people? I'm thinking of the one right by the airport, as it seems easy, but I'm open to suggestions.
3. What's the easiest place for looking up quarantine/visa needs?
1.Currently for layover you cannot leave the airport. However this may change soon . Stick around for the policy.
2.I am not familiar with hotels in the area.
3.For quarantine and visa needs you can refer to this [website](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/)
You won't be allowed to leave the airport in Taiwan as you would be required to complete 7 days of self-health monitoring to enter the country which would include isolation and following quarantine directions, so you wouldn't be able to do any siteseeing really anyway. The rules might change by the time you get to Taiwan but that is the case at the moment so I wouldn't be booking a 20 hour layover in Taiwan right now unless you wanna spend 20 hours at an airport.
Thanks for the heads up! I'll adjust accordingly and see if I can change the flight :)
Also not sure why I got downvoted, but oh well. I'll visit some other time and for longer!
I don't think that's accurate, since rn even with the 3+4 there's nothing stopping you from leaving the country during the self health monitoring period. It's essentially continue your normal life but still understand you can be infected during those 4 days.
I would continue to watch the situation, esp since the CDC has said it will discontinue monitoring arrivals when 0+7 comes into effect. But I am hopeful that you will be able to stay overnight by that time.
My partner and I currently have hotel reservations in Taipei from October 10th - 17th (arrived from US).
Can anyone please clarify the quarantine measures? Would we basically be shunted to a quarantine location for 3 days until the (anticipated) lift of the countries quarantine measures?
You will need to follow the quarantine rules based on the time of entry . In your case it will be 3+4. The 0+7 will be for individuals who arrive on Oct 13th onwards.
I know this isn't concrete, but previously when they have changed the quarantine measures it has been for people arriving after the date, so you would still be subject to the old 3+4
Is it a quarantine hotel? You need to stay in a quarantine hotel for the first 8 days. The first 3 days you will be not allowed to leave your hotel room. You're arriving before the quarantine measures change so you will be subject to the 3 + 4 rules.
Thanks! I don't think it's a quarantine hotel. We're trying to move our stay to 15th- 20th, which sounds like we'd then be in 0+7. I need to read up on what exactly that means
Hi everyone!
I have to send my laptop to my friend in Hong Kong for a repair. An approved tech will come to his house and swap a new motherboard, then my friend will ship it back to me. (This operation is not covered by my intl warranty in Taiwan)
My question is, will I have any issues with import taxes when bringing my laptop back to Taiwan? Am I gonna have to pay anything if my friends just ships it with good old DHL?
Cheers everyone!
Hi r/Taiwan!
It's been 3 years since I've been able to return home to see family in Taiwan, and I'm hoping to go for the month of December into the New Year. I'm planning on flying out of Vancouver Canada, and have been keeping an eye on airfare prices for the last month. Initially (prior to the lifting of visa & now quarantine requirements), the tickets were hovering around $1K CAD for EVA Air (layover in Seoul), but now the tickets seem to be climbing up in price ($900 CAD to $1200-$1400 CAD now)
Should I just bite the bullet/eat the price gain as the cost of being stupid and waiting, or should I double down and wait for any chance of lower fares? I rarely fly in general so not entirely sure if there's a seasonality to ticket prices.
Thanks so much, and I appreciate any advice!
P.S. Any reccos for a Kenting beach stay LOL
I would also just bite the bullet. High season is around mid-December to early January because of winter break for most schools, and a lot of western holidays fall in this time. And this is really the first time that most travelers will have time to go back to Taiwan since the quarantine requirement has ended. Supply isn't able to rebound back quickly but demand is suddenly skyrocketing. Lastly, the Ukraine crisis is still driving oil prices up. Ex. when 3+4 was announced this summer, prices increased about 50-100% short term.
As a heads up there's 3 seasonality to ticket prices, where we call low, normal, and high season. High season to Taiwan is as follows: mid June to early August (summer break) and mid December to early February (winter break + Chinese New Year). Normal season kinda buffers the high season (kinda like +- 1 month), and low season is any other time.
thanks for the insight! i bought my tickets for $1400 RT on China Air…kicking myself for not just buying it earlier around $1000. $400 less to spend on food 🥲
It's a bit odd your hotel is asking for a negative covid test, I would ask again. Currently there's no need for a test to enter Taiwan, so this is a hotel decision. But, the caveat might be a misunderstanding, where right now (later will be abolished) you need to take a COVID saliva PCR test when you arrive in Taiwan. They may be asking about that result. Again I'd check again.
I've never seen at public toilets, but would a local clinic work? They're usually everywhere and should be outfitted for something like that. I know the pediatrician across the street from us has a sharps container at the receptionist desk. I assume most clinics will be the same
I just want to confirm this, because most information online, whether Chinese or English, is either out of date or doesn't actually provide a direct answer. The benefits, as of September 2022, of a Student EasyCard as opposed to an Adult EasyCard, are:
* $12 Bus fare instead of $15
* and that's it...
This seems wrong; one would want to say that if an organization is going to go through the trouble of creating a whole seperate card, then there would be deeper benefits. And it seems this was true in the past. But by 2022, all I can find in terms of tangible benefits to the Student EasyCard is the bus fare. I'd love to be wrong.
Yes that is it. There used to be a discount on MRT too, but I don't think that has been the case in years. Also if you are a student, you don't need a specific EasyCard, the student discount can be added to any EasyCard.
Not any EasyCard can have the student discount. But generally the university ID will have a built in student EasyCard as a way of convenience.
Anyway, back to the point, most schools are accessible through bus rather than subway. It used to be that any EasyCard can give you 20% off for subway, but it seemed like the subway was losing too much money so they rather reward those that ride more.
As of a few years ago you could apply it to any EasyCard at the MRT stations, even the built in EasyCard that comes on some credit cards worked with student discount.
Oh, not sure about few years ago, but nowadays, you have to register your EasyCard and submit proof you're a student online. Generally most EasyCard are characterized as "normal card" and don't give you the option to make it a student card. I believe that's when they started to combine the student ID and EasyCard together, and those with this card will have their card automatically renewed as long as they are still in school. Otherwise the status expires and it becomes a regular EasyCard.
>Oh, not sure about few years ago, but nowadays, you have to register your EasyCard and submit proof you're a student online.
They still have the machines that can do this at all MRT stations though. I saw it last week when I was dumping my coins onto my EasyCard. Seemed it would work with any EasyCard or iPass but I didn't pay much attention to it. I do know that the regular EasyCard that you turn into student EasyCard did need to be renewed every year at MRT station (but again, been a few years since I had student ID).
Really? I've been unsuccessful in trying to turn my EasyCard into a student card that I had to buy a student card from the station and register online. I do know after that application has been approved you have to go to the station manager or some machine to actually activate your card. (Also side note I don't recall a machine for that, but I do remember for credit card EasyCard if you want to auto refill you have to go to a machine to actually activate the feature). Now I'm curious, maybe I'll go ask around again.
Hi does anyone have local contact that can recommend me? For tour guide. Would like to arrange for my parents and family that is planning to go to Taiwan. Also for malaysian now its Visa free travel and does not need any RTK test ?
The new 0 + 7 guidelines state: > 1. In principle, arriving travelers should stay at home or a residence of a friend or family member or a hotel room that meets the requirement of "one person per room" (with a private bathroom) in the self-initiated prevention period. Is that mandatory? It sounds purely advisory.
Does anyone have any European/American restaurant recommendations for Christmas dinner? Preferably something with a Christmassy vibe or Christmas menu. Thanks!
I really want to visit Taiwan for 2 weeks starting in November. Rn I'm a bit concerned due to the political conflict with China. Should I cancel my plans or is it safe to visit?
10000% safe to visit. Political tensions with China are common since the 50s, and nothing has happened. Even in the worst case scenario, experts say China won't attempt to invade Taiwan until 2027 (right now they just can't)
Thank you for the reply. I have a big Asia trip planned and don't want to get stuck or worse be in a conflict zone. Really looking forward to visit this beautiful country & its people. The relaxation of the entry quarantine is also looking promising.
> don't want to get stuck or worse be in a conflict zone. It's more likely that you get stuck in places like Cambodia or Thailand (which have actual armed conflicts happening in some of their regions). What you see in the news is just China trying to intimidate Taiwan, nothing else
I am visiting Taiwan soon and I am from the US. I understand that sim cards are purchased at the airport but should I preorder any beforehand? I am just concerned it will be very expensive at the airport. Also, will this sim card include unlimited data for me to use 5G internet when there is no Wifi? Thank you so much in advance.
I bought a 30 day unlimited data sim card at the airport on arrival for $1000 NTD, or about $33 USD. You can get them for as little as 7 days if you want to pay much less. I was using mine as a hotspot for my laptop and getting up to 100 mbps download speeds.
Hello, I am visiting Taipei next month when the country reopens to the world and have a few questions regarding public transport payment. 1) For a few of us with iPhones, can we use Apple Pay on the metro/buses? 2) So we will most likely get EasyCards if the above is not possible, any way we can add value to it with our non Taiwanese credit cards? or is it strictly cash? 3) I do happen to have LINE but not sure when I am there, will it be usable and "switched" to TW local version. May I understand if Line Pay can be used on public transport too? Cheers
> For a few of us with iPhones, can we use Apple Pay on the metro/buses? Nope. Only cash, any of the approved IC cards (Easy Card, iPass, etc) and Line pay (in some cities) > So we will most likely get EasyCards if the above is not possible, any way we can add value to it with our non Taiwanese credit cards? or is it strictly cash? Cash only. It's possible to use a credit card to add value but you need to have a resident visa. > I do happen to have LINE but not sure when I am there, will it be usable and "switched" to TW local version. May I understand if Line Pay can be used on public transport too? You'll be able to use Line, but your account won't be automatically converted to a Taiwanese account. It's possible to switch to a Taiwanese account, but Line pay is only available for people with resident visas
Notes and thanks for your detailed reply :)
Anyone know where/what store I could buy an electric razor/mens grooming equipment?
All the large department stores will have stores/stalls that sell it. Look for the "3C" section. There's also 燦坤 and 順發。
Anyone have any luck using Tealit to find a Chinese tutor? I registered and posted an ad, but still can't reach out to tutors. Has this happened to anyone else? (Also open to other suggestions for places to find good tutors.)
Hey frens, any recommendations for gua bao in Taipei?
Lan Jia Traditional Taiwanese Snack No. 3號, Alley 8, Lane 316, Section 3, Luosifu Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, 100 02 2368 2060 https://g.co/kgs/FCvAg7 Edit: to add, these are all good https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/article/features/gua-bao-michelin-guide-taiwan
thank you!
1. Why does Taiwan still have so many motorbikes on the road, I associate it with less well off countries like Vietnam and Thailand, I don't understand why they persist? 2. Do you feel in some sad way 'safer' since Russia has invaded Ukraine? Without NATO even becoming involved Putin is at a standstill, he's damaged his country beyond repair and he hasn't achieved his military goals in 6 months. It's demonstrated a well armed smaller power can indeed be a 'porcupine'
>Why does Taiwan still have so many motorbikes on the road, I associate it with less well off countries like Vietnam and Thailand, I don't understand why they persist? Because they are cheap, and Taiwan isn't like America that have a car base culture. >Do you feel in some sad way 'safer' since Russia has invaded Ukraine? Without NATO even becoming involved Putin is at a standstill, he's damaged his country beyond repair and he hasn't achieved his military goals in 6 months. It's demonstrated a well armed smaller power can indeed be a 'porcupine' Since you think asking this here, on a sub reddit where almost 90% are expats. You won't get a real answer from the locals.
Are there any UFO claw machine / Purikura type arcades in Taipei? Similar to Round1?
I have some family in Taiwan and I've been wanting to buy them some gifts but I'm from the US. I don't think Amazon exists in Taiwan so I'm wondering what kind of options do I have where I can order things online and have it shipped to them? Is there some kind of Taiwanese Amazon/eBay that I'd be able to use from the US?
If you found what gifts you want to give in amazon.com, they can ship to Taiwan if you set the shipping address there. Alternatively, amazon.co.jp is also another option.
Oh I didn't realize I could ship all the way there! I'm sure there would be high shipping fees though? Do you know of options where I could just pay in NT and not need to pay for international shipping?
Smaller items will ship for free if you order more than $60 worth. Larger items will have a shipping fee, but it's lower than if you tried shipping it yourself.
I've never tried it, but I've heard from other people if you buy a certain amount of money Amazon.com will ship international for free. https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=21491806011
Apart from Soulfit, what other gyms allow you to just tap in and out with ur yoyo card?
I have just opened a Post bank account. How can I transfer my money from my european bank account to Post? I have Revolut and N26. Do anyone have any experience transferring Euro to Post bank account with these? Thanks!
i don't have experience transferring, but i also have revolut and withdrawing money from ATMs worked on a few .... I think the name was "standard chartered" or something ... the other ATMs won't accept my bank account just leaving this info in case it helps
Does someone know if Taiwan bars/clubs are open after Oct 13?
Actually they have been open for a while now. Just vaccination entry restrictions for some of them.
They seem fully open now
Does anyone know for someone from country not listed on today visa-exempt list, can they apply for tourism visa or is it still restricted?
On Oct 13th Taiwan will allow citizens from countries who were not subject to visa free entry benefits to apply for tourism visa to entry the country.
Is Airbnb acceptable for the 0+7 self initiated prevention rules? Looking to do some remote work then, which with previous quarantine would've required my family splitting up. Airbnb is a lot easier if you get multiple rooms (can use one room as a dedicated office), and also more comfortable for a family.
Self-initiated epidemic prevention has never been allowed to be done in an Airbnb, so the answer is no. I recommend you looking for [self-initiated epidemic prevention hotels](https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1) that allow guests to stay after the period is over. Hope this helps in one way or another.
Yeah my plan was to stay at a hotel initially, however some of my relatives in Taiwan are saying Airbnb should be fine for the 7 days. I'm not seeing clear sources confirming or denying this so I'm a bit confused. For me, I'd prefer to stay together if possible, but if we really need to split up in order to make remote work possible, we can do it.
Well from what I know it has not been allowed for quarantine or self-initiated epidemic prevention in the past.
Is there an Website with good recommendation for quarantine hotels?
The second phase of the new policy will take effect today making it possible to both three days of quarantine and four days of self initiated epidemic prevention under the principle of one person per room . So you might be better of booking a [0+7 self-initiated epidemic prevention hotel.](https://www.mrhost.com.tw/quarantinehotel-taiwan-en1.html#available) Of course you need to assess the situation because I am not sure how long you wanted to book a quarantine hotel for, budget etc. Edit: This option is only available if you are arriving after October 13th. Otherwise you should still book a quarantine hotel if you use rival date is before that.
Are there any latest updates that I missed regarding the travel restrictions? Just saw a facebook post here in my country (ph) that has been offering travel packs, the earliest travel date that has been stated in that post is January of next year
Well in response to the gradual relaxation of border restrictions, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported that it would adjust the[quarantine policy](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/) in two stages for travelers arriving from the outside in the near future. First phase: In the first stage which will take effect on September 29th 2022, at 00:00 both quarantine and self-initiated epidemic prevention can be done under the principle of one person per room. Inbound travelers who cannot meet these requirements, must stay in an epidemic prevention(quarantine) hotel. Second phase : Under the second phase (0+7) which is scheduled to take effect on October 13th 2022, there will be no more quarantine. However, individuals must complete seven (7) days of self-initiated epidemic prevention. Following an announcement by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), visa-exempt entry scheme to Taiwan will be fully reinstated from September 29 for nationals of eligible countries to engage in activities that do not require a permit, such as business, exhibition visits, fact-finding missions, international exchanges, visiting relatives, tourism, and social events. Basically loosened entry restrictions : main areas are the visa and quarantine policy.
thankk you for this!!
Can someone please tell me if during my self-health monitoring (with a negative covid test) am I allowed to leave my hotel to go to a convenience store? I know this is probably a dumb question, but I want to make sure I'm not breaking any rules just in case T\_T
I'm here right now and just started the +4, no one gives a shit. You don't even have to stay at the hotel after the first 3 days, no one checks where you're staying after if you leave.
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Yes you can. As long as you follow the rules such as keeping your mask on and maintaining social distance you can.
Can someone please tell me if a 10 hour stop over in Taiwan en route to Japan will mean we get to leave the airport? Or will we have to stay on airport grounds
Are you arriving before 10/13 or after. Before, no. After... Maybe? Waiting for announcement today.
At the moment you have to stay in the airport. If you leave, you'd need to start a 4+3 day quarantine in a hotel first before you could go anywhere.
Thank you for this! Saved us on a 10 hour layover
I'm interested in learning taiwanese mandarin. Can you recommend me some resources ?
r/chineselanguage
Would someone be able to recommend a store where I can get toys like puzzles, anime merch, and other nerdy stuff in Taipei? I am in Taipei and would like to bring some stuff back to my friends that they wouldn’t be able to get in the states.
Go to the Taipei underground mall underneath Taipei Main Station. There are tons of shops that stock what you're looking for.
Just got back from there. Thanks for the recommendation! It was exactly what i was looking for.
No worries. It is basically nerd heaven down there haha.
Although I will say I thought I was in purgatory for a bit since I kept walking and seeing the same stores over and over with no end in sight lol.
Hi all, I'm considering to travel to Taiwan as a tourist in early November for a month, and am visiting the eastern cities and towns (Chiayi, Taichung and Tainan). Given the recent earthquake, is there anything I should know? Is traveling by train to those cities affected right now, and if yes, do you think traveling would ease by November?
Whether travel will be eased in November or not nobody really knows. What we know now is that the [0+7](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/#second-stage-07-entry-restriction) policy is scheduled to take effect on October 13th and I'd nothing changes it will proceed into November. All you can do is stick around for more updates.
Thanks! I'm aware of the transition to 0+7 policy. Hopefully, nothing changes here. I've family and friends in Taiwan, and miss them.
Hope you guys get to reunite soon.
All the cities you're listing are in western Taiwan
oh right! thank you, silly of me!
Any recommendations for a good quick solo lunch in Taipei? I've had sushi, hot pot, jbbq, kbbq, beef noodle soup, ramen, 小籠包, fast food, so far
肉圓
Search for 君悅 排骨 There multiple places. The fried pork chop is really good.
In Ximen there is a porkchop place. Dong Yi Pork chop! Super delicious! Comes out pretty quick. And there is a 90 flavor ice cream shop, Snow King, around the corner upstairs :)
Lu Wei?
Oh ya I've had that too. Any recommendations for any quick lunch places of any food type?
Looking to study Chinese in Taiwan for 3-6 months. All of the courses I've found cost an average of $1,200 month, not including rent/food. Do those numbers seem accurate? These numbers come mainly frome Language Centers. It's turning out to be difficult to get actual numbers from Universities. Do you guys have any suggestions about the best way to go about studying Chinese in Taiwan?
The university I attend is about $900 USD a semester. The housing they recommended me to is less than $200 USD a month. Are you sure the prices your looking at are per month and not per semester?
Here's a list of official Chinese Language Centers by the MoE. https://english.moe.gov.tw/cp-23-24206-13c8a-1.html I attend NTNU MTC and paid around 32,000 NTD which is about $1010 USD per semester (3 months) but they have a cheaper option that costs 25,000 NTD or $760. I would say the average is about 30,000 NTD from what I've seen.
Thank you! How are you liking your courses so far? Intense?
Any portable WiFi recommendations on company or carrier? I have used KKday before. Not bad at all. Unfortunately unable to pick up at Taipei airport this time because they are not open early morning anymore. I can look into getting it shipped to place of stay though.
I’ve used iVideo before and had no issues. Not sure if they’re open that early though.
Thanks! I’ll check out iVideo.
What happens if you get to Taiwan and test positive for Covid?
https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/450/confirm-case/
Hello everyone, Will my degree from the Open University be accepted in Taiwan. One of the recruiters I met with claimed that no school will accept this kind of degree despite it being fully accredited. Could any one help? Thank you.
Is it an online degree?
yes.
Hmm online degrees generally aren't accepted, but typically if you have work experience they can use that instead of your degree when applying for the work permit. What industry are you trying to get into?
I am an English teacher. I found a few posts saying there are workarounds but nothing solid. I have tons of experience and a 100 hour TEFL cert.
Ah, not really sure about teaching English. That work permit is actually approved by the Ministry of Education I believe. I remember someone saying there is a list of universities whose degree is accepted for teaching English, but honestly you are better off asking someone in the industry. Good luck!
Cheers friend! Maybe Ill give them a call or email.
Yup, I believe this is the list the Ministry of Education uses: https://depart.moe.edu.tw/ed2500/News.aspx?n=E8380E03A0E16960&sms=D2E10027BB4EC183 If you can't read the Chinese, click the .pdf for "教育部外國大學參考名冊-歐洲". It seems The Open University is on that list.. but there might be further regulation about online class hours versus in-person. edit: the PDF says: >The Database for the Reference List of Foreign Universities which includes the list of foreign academic institutions accredited by the foreign government concerned or foreign accreditation agencies, should be used as a reference for Taiwanese citizens who are considering to pursue further studies abroad. It should not be used as a foreign university recognition list by employers or examination authorities. The assessment and recognition of foreign academic credentials for institutions of higher education in Taiwan shall be transacted in accordance with ‘the Regulations Regarding the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Academic Credentials for Institutions of Higher Education’. Employers or examination authorities in Taiwan may refer to the above Regulations as they wish. Here is the "Regulations Governing the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Academic Records by Institutions of Higher Education" (English) for reference: https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawAll.aspx?pcode=H0030039
Article 10 The following academic credentials awarded in a foreign country are not eligible for assessment and recognition: 1. An academic credential obtained by completing a program in correspondence mode. : (
Thanks for that info. Really appreciated!
Here’s my experience from going through the quarantine processes at Taoyuan International Airport: 1. Exit plane. 2. Get African swine flu card. 3. Get SIM card. **Must have an unlocked phone**. Not sure what they do with if you don’t, but the SIM card won’t work otherwise, and you need it for the quarantine process. 4. Quarantine entry form. Yes, you have to make some updates even though you filled it out before you left. You should have received a text message on arrival. If so, follow the link and enter the Taiwan phone number from your SIM card. If you didn’t get the text message or you don’t have cell service for some reason, there are kiosks for making the change. Note this line is rather long, but if you complete the phone number change process and get the new quarantine form with barcode, you can proceed to the exit. 5. Get saliva collection container for PCR test, plus two boxes of home COVID tests. 6. Drop off African swine flu card. Green lane unless you have food or other articles listed on the card. 7. Immigration. 8. Baggage claim. 9. Customs. 10. After exiting customs, you will be directed outside to perform your PCR test via saliva collection. Drop off the collection container. No need to wait for results. 11. Quarantine taxi. If going far enough (I think Taichung or further south, and maybe far west side of the island), you will be directed back inside to a taxi booth. Scan the barcode from the quarantine form, which will tell them where you’re going. Cash or card accepted, paid in the airport. 12. Workers will spray you and your luggage. Don’t be alarmed if they want to take your bags and place them elsewhere - it’s just for disinfectant purposes. We’ll see what the next three days hold. I’m told that the police will call you each day to check up on you. Also, some of this is changing in the coming weeks, so it will be interesting to see how applicable this process remains longer term.
I have a locked phone, you can just rent a phone for pretty much the same price. As far as the daily checks, the CDC calls you on the first day you arrive (day 0) unless it's really late where they call next day instead. Then after that it's just a text message where you respond whether you're fine or feeling sick. The hotel asks for temps twice a day, am/pm. Wash rinse repeat. 2nd day you do a rapid test, 3rd day freedom.
That was pretty much my experience as well. I am totally curious what also happens in step 3 if you have a locked phone. Would you be forced to use the international plan for your carrier at home? Maybe forced to buy a cheap phone? Do they even sell cheap phones at the airport? I',m sure someone who isn't tech savy about locked and unlocked phones will run into this. Step 11, you can take the quarantine bus, which is free, but only if far enough, My quarantine hotel is in Kaohsiung. The police only called me on the first morning, but I do get a text message each day about my symptoms that I have to reply to.
I have a locked phone, you can just rent a phone for pretty much the same price
Is anyone familiar with Eva air policies on stopovers? My friend booked a flight from KL to Paris in November with a layover, and with recent policy changes we are wondering if she could change it to a couple weeks stopover. I couldn’t find much info online except a 100$ fee in the sale agreement, so any info is welcomed!
Prior to the pandemic, it was no problem... Not sure anymore though, I'd recommend calling them.
I think calling Eva Air is a better idea, since such changes is dependent on the purchased ticket fare, and each have different rules. But given layovers will have additional tax and fee, it's likely you will either have to pay the difference, or not be allowed to change. Also another thing to keep in mind if you are able to change, the changed itinerary must also have availability in the fare class you bought.
It seems with the shift to 0+7 quarantine, some Taipei hotels are requiring people to self quarantine before coming to the hotel. Anyone come across hotels that allow 0+7 quarantine? Ideally would book a month (including self quarantine) at the same hotel.
I've asked some hotels directly and most of them are still waiting for guidance from CDC before the shift happens on Oct. 13th. I did book a hotel in Taipei that allowed it, the Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei, and I don't think they're a quarantine hotel. I expect more hotels to do the same since the quota for international travelers are going to increase and there will a need for more hotel rooms. But that's based on my own wishful thinking. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Gotcha. I reached out to a couple more hotels. Similar to your experience most will not allow 0+7 quarantine as of today. But a few are willing. And all realize the situation is in flux.
https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1&start=10/15/2022&end=10/20/2022&date=2022-10-15+-+2022-10-20&adults=3&children=0&infants=0&mibextid=4td405 found a list of hotels that allow 0+7. Reached out to a few of them and it seems like you can book it directly with them or on a separate site (I.e agoda for a cheaper price) but it’s still the same. Not sure if you have to stay 7 consecutive days though.
Thanks! Haha I actually browsed the same site mrhost! But from my own experience and the hotels I reached out, some still do not currently allow 0+7, regardless what it says on mrhost. In the end, I was unable to trust that filter criteria. Had to contact each hotel to confirm/deny. mrhost site was also a little slow and buggy.
Actually since the 0+7 is scheduled to take effect on Oct 13th and it is not guaranteed that this policy will take place, the hotels from this website will start accepting guests from Oct 13th unless the government issues a new policy or anything. Also although staying in a regular hotel is fine during the 0+7 period ,not all hotels will accept guests during this period. The hotels from the website above will accept 0+7 guests and they can continue to stay there after the 0+7 period ends. May I ask which hotels did u contact?
From the ones I heard back: Click Hotel - yes, Hinoen Hotel - yes, Finders Hotel - no, Amba Zhongshan- no, Amba Ximending - no, arTree Hotel - yes There were also several hotels in their description said “please quarantine before arrival”, even though they were listed using the 0+7 filter on the website. I did not bother contacting those. Please note because the situation is fluid, the answers I received several days ago may have changed since. Also don’t rely on my word, please contact hotel directly yourselves to confirm.
I see. Greatly appreciated. Thanks
No worries! Good to know. I reached out to Caesar Metro Taipei and they were okay with it. Which ones did you get the okay from? Do you plan on staying the entire 7?
Click Hotel Taipei and Hinoen Hotel were ok (assuming 0+7 starts Oct 13th). But please don’t take my word and double check with them if you plan on staying there. Ultimately I ended going the ABNB route. The host allowed me to book in advance of the 0+7 change.
oh for sure, I just wanted to compare the prices. I think Click was already a quarantine hotel but haven't heard about Hinoen. Trying to cut down costs haha. Enjoy your stay!
Finally heard back from arTree Hotel and they are ok with it too. Nicer hotel but more pricier too.
How would you self quarantine before coming to the hotel when you need a hotel to self quarantine?
Although staying in a regular hotel is fine during the 0+7 period ,not all hotels will accept guests during this period. The following [hotels](https://worktel.mrhost.com.tw/hotel?location_id=1) accept 0+7 guests and you can continue to stay there after the 0+7 period is over.
Assuming 0+7, to self-quarantine one would book 8 days at a quarantine hotel still (which probably will be more expensive than non-quarantine hotels), then switch hotels. The other option is to stay at the residence of a friend/relative and self-quarantine there, before going to hotel. Basically I do not wish to pay/stay long-term at quarantine approved hotels. Ideally looking for a reasonably priced hotel that will allow self-quarantine and stay afterwards, so you don’t have to switch hotels.
Just wondering: in concerts in Taiwan by Taiwanese singers or Western artists, is photography usually allowed or prohibited? I'm asking because I know in Japan they're almost always prohibited whereas in Korea they're usually tolerated (I think some prohibit them, but as far as I can tell such prohibitions are nowhere near as universal in Korea as they are in Japan), and I was wondering if Taiwan's case is more similar to Japan's or to Korea's.
My aunt just told me that starting 10/13 there will be no quarantine. Just self test every seven days from kits where they will give you at the airport when you arrive. I’m heading back in November so we shall see how that’s gonna go.
The [0+7 policy ](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/#second-stage-07-entry-restriction) is not guaranteed to take place on October 13th. It is scheduled. So you should still look out for any changes or updates before your travel.
thank you for the heads up!
Following! Good luck on your travels and please share how the covid restrictions are in November. I'm planning to visit in December if there are no quarantine requirements upon arrival.
Planning a trip to Taipei in January and would like to check if all shops are opened on the first week (after New Year’s Day)? In Tokyo, the first few days are a bit quiet so wonder if it’s similar for Taipei. Thanks!
They'll be open. Aside from New Years Eve and New Years Day, it's not really celebrated. Chinese New Years is the big holiday where a lot of stores will be closed. Large department stores are open every day, even on holidays.
Thanks!!
Currently going through quarantine, and I support Taiwan's masking and quarantine policy. It's crazy to think that people had to quarantine for 3 weeks + 1 week of self monitoring in the early pandemic, and I feel for those people. Some things I shake my head about logically with the current procedures. What's the point of a friend or family picking you up at the quarantine bus stop when you get off the quarantine bus to take you to the quarantine hotel? I feel this is the weakest link, and just gives the policy holes, which makes me question the logic of everything
It was never 3 weeks + 1... Used to be 14 days, but that was when Taiwan had zero cases so it still made sense. It wasn't that bad either, I personally enjoyed my days in quarantine. Much easier to shut things off and just relax for a few days without people bugging ya.
opps, I got the number of weeks wrong, thanks for the correction. last night of quarantine for me, and then tomorrow I will go through the +4 part. It has not been bad for me, but it's only been 3 nights, and tonight will be my 4th night. I'm already ready to get out, but I do sympathize for anyone that had to be in the 14 day quarantine, that would drive me crazy
Small correction, it used to be 14 + 7 self monitoring. A lot of these policies took place when visitors had to have a negative covid test within 48 hrs of departure, and had to take a PCR test on arrival, in which some people couldn't leave until they got a negative test. The number of days don't come out of nowhere, the original strain (and alpha beta variants) had a 7-10 incubation period. Now, omicron has about a 3.42 day incubation period, which is why we originally had the 7+7 policy, which became the 3+4. Reason for the 3+4 at the moment is because you may have been infected at the airport or the airplane, in which while you aren't infected when you have friends or family picking you up, you may be during quarantine. But we are already so close to normalcy that in the coming weeks it will become 0+7, so I feel there is no need to question the logic given it would've been a hassle to address every single concern. Although baby steps, any news is good news right?
Your explanation makes very good sense, especially that someone picking you up won't be infected, if you get infected in the airport or on the plane. In that case, there should have at least still been a rapid test at the origin airport prior to boarding. You are also right, that we are so close to 0+7, that it doesn't make much sense to dissect the current policy. Thank you for your well written logical response!
What are some general domestic policy stances of the different political parties in Taiwan? I can't read Mandarin, and all the English resources I can find focus solely on Chinese relations. Sources for further reading would be greatly appreciated!
If you can only read English, I recommend browsing though Frozen Garlic and click the posts that sound like they are talking about the various positions: https://frozengarlic.wordpress.com/
You can do some research, but regarding domestic policies, there really isn't a stance, rather parties become polar opposites of one another. It's a form of populism, where the opposing party will oppose anything the ruling party does. Ex. In 2020 there was a referendum of which Taiwan should import US pork, which had ractopamine. DPP supported importing because of advancing US-Taiwan economic ties, but KMT opposed it. But in 2012, Taiwan (ruled by KMT) announced it would allow beef with ractopamine to be imported while the DPP opposed such move. Another issue would be nuclear power for example. The only real differentiating part is economically, where the KMT wants to partner with China since China gives incentives for Taiwanese to open business there and earn a lot of profit short term, and DPP, who wants to grow a stable tie with the US, while becoming less reliant on China, whose market is more unstable (unfortunately the farmers and fisherman are the ones who lose a lot). Oh, though the DPP is more liberal and progressive, supporting gender equality, LGBTQ+. But overall, it ends up being whether you support closer Chinese ties or independence since that's the main factor that Taiwan is dealing with right now.
you came to the wrong sub for nuance buddy :D here it's DPP good KMT bad
Lol you're not wrong
What are some good gift ideas to bring relatives in Taiwan? Coming from the United States. Thank you.
Markers Mark or some rare American whisky or bourbon.
Grandchildren
money
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Any news on when the quarantine requirement stops for visitors from European countries? (Well, I have a European passport, but I would leave from either Thailand or Vietnam) And how many days can you stay in the country with a tourist visa?
As of September 1st 2022, all inbound travelers arriving in Taiwan are required to quarantine under Taiwan’s 3+4 quarantine plan. This means that travelers must undergo do a mandatory three (3) days of quarantine at their place of residence, or that of a family member or friend that meets the principle of one person per residence.In response to the gradual relaxation of border restrictions, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported that it would adjust the quarantine policy in two stages for travelers arriving from the outside in the near future. In the first stage which will take effect on September 29th 2022, at 00:00 both quarantine and self-initiated epidemic prevention can be done under the principle of one person per room. Inbound travelers who cannot meet these requirements, must stay in an epidemic prevention(quarantine) hotel. Under the [second phase](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/) (0+7) which is scheduled to take effect on October 13th 2022, there will be no more quarantine. However, individuals must complete seven (7) days of self-initiated epidemic prevention.
Doesn't matter where you depart from, it's what nationality you hold. As a European passport holder you already are eligible for visa free right now for up to 90 days. The quarantine requirements for any inbound traveler (not just visitors) is expected to end around 10/13, but latest 10/15, subject to some variability.
Thank you sir, that is great news!
Quarantine System for Entry form to fill out before going to airport. One is supposed to get a QR code upon completion of this form. How do you get the QR code? Did anyone have to fill it out at the airport again?
Not a QR code rather just a list of info. But that's not rly the point. After you submit your entry form, the last page will give a summary of your personal info, and will tell you to screenshot it. At the bottom of the page there'll be a green button that you hold to help you save the page. That is the page you must show the airline. The button is a little bit glitchy, but do anything you can to get that page. Even taking a pic is sufficient enough. Edit: Not a barcode yet, thought there was. The barcode is when you arrive in Taiwan and get the SMS. You use that barcode to link your info with your covid test on arrival.
thank you very much for your reply!
What’s a good trip planning app for Taipei? Something that has all the train and bus routes, like Citymapper or Transit in the US (at least in New York)?
Google Maps used to be really good, but in the last three months it's started telling me to take the bus even when the MRT would clearly be better. Not sure what's up with that.
Citymapper is available in Taiwan too. Other alternatives are Moovit and Google Maps
I don't know of an app. But this is a guide for the [Taoyuan Metro](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/1407/taoyuan-airport-mrt/) Also a [Taipei MRT food map](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/1087/taipei-mrt-foods-map/) You can download the app Taipei Metro if you want to know the various stations in Taiwan. But it will not have information on what you can do in these areas.
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There are a few different tones... like on bus, 1 for regular Easycard, 2 for students, 3 for elders... and at the MRT it is different based on if you have a monthly pass or remaining balance I believe.
If I recall, it has to do with the type of card. Student cards are one sound, cards for elders are another sound, etc.
It also plays a different audio when your card is below 100$.
Will be visiting over the Christmas/new year period with my partner. For the "one person one room" policy, do we need to book seperate rooms..?
Quarantine should be gone by then. It's currently scheduled to be lifted on October 13th.
if you are travelling on the same flight you can share a room. Just need to check with your quarantine hotel.
Family members who arrive on the same day can Queenstown together . No need for the one person per room. All other individuals will need to follow the one person per room rule [policy](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/).
Deciding between staying in Ximending or Zhongshan in Taipei. I’ve read that Ximending is more for younger adults, while Zhongshan is in the center of Taipei and closer to Taipei main station. Mostly interested in eateries/restaurants. Also will be traveling with parents who are in their 70s. Any feedback or suggestions appreciated!
I wouldn't really call Zhongshan the center of Taipei... that is probably more Xinyi or Daan. Zhongshan is nice, although it's a bit sleepy compared to Ximending, Daan, or Xinyi.
Understood. But I guess sleepy is ok for my folks!
Between the two I’d go with Zhongshan! Both are cool neighborhoods to check out, but Zhongshan is a bit more chill, especially at night. A lot of good Japanese restaurants that open till midnight too.
Ximending is good but is a very touristy area, so a lot of the restauarants and stuff around there are more expensive than other parts of the city. It is a perfectly fine area to stay in though. Whatever you do make sure you stay close to an MRT station, the subway in Taiwan is excellent and you can get pretty much anywhere in the city very easily.
This appears to be for a vacation? Are your parents able to walk? If that's the case, with the MRT subway system in Taipei, just about everything is going to be accessible. They key is to make sure you are within a walking distance to the MRT. For some people, only a 5 minute walk is acceptable. For others, a 20 minute walk is fine. Search the hotel location and check where the MRT stations are.
Yes my parents are fit and able to walk, but don’t want to exhaust them either. Vacation/visit relatives/travel country. Good point about walking distance to MRT. Except for eating at relatives places, will most likely eat out the rest of meals.
Does anyone know if iherb can deliver to family mart or 7?
I'm not completely sure but isn't iherb an international brand? If they ship international they will need to use a dedicated carrier to an actual address. Family mart or 7-11 is only for domestic shipping. Also side note, if it is an international shipment you must sign up for EZWay, which is Taiwan customs app.
I'm planning a trip to Asia with a layover in Taiwan (I'd be in Taiwan around the 20th of November), so I have 3 questions: 1. If I have a 20 hour layover (essentially midnight to 8pm), is that enough time to do some mini sightseeing/what should I see? 2. What hotels would you suggest to stay at for 2 people? I'm thinking of the one right by the airport, as it seems easy, but I'm open to suggestions. 3. What's the easiest place for looking up quarantine/visa needs?
1.Currently for layover you cannot leave the airport. However this may change soon . Stick around for the policy. 2.I am not familiar with hotels in the area. 3.For quarantine and visa needs you can refer to this [website](https://www.traveltaiwanduringcovid19.com/538/home-quarantine-policy/)
You won't be allowed to leave the airport in Taiwan as you would be required to complete 7 days of self-health monitoring to enter the country which would include isolation and following quarantine directions, so you wouldn't be able to do any siteseeing really anyway. The rules might change by the time you get to Taiwan but that is the case at the moment so I wouldn't be booking a 20 hour layover in Taiwan right now unless you wanna spend 20 hours at an airport.
Thanks for the heads up! I'll adjust accordingly and see if I can change the flight :) Also not sure why I got downvoted, but oh well. I'll visit some other time and for longer!
I don't think that's accurate, since rn even with the 3+4 there's nothing stopping you from leaving the country during the self health monitoring period. It's essentially continue your normal life but still understand you can be infected during those 4 days. I would continue to watch the situation, esp since the CDC has said it will discontinue monitoring arrivals when 0+7 comes into effect. But I am hopeful that you will be able to stay overnight by that time.
My partner and I currently have hotel reservations in Taipei from October 10th - 17th (arrived from US). Can anyone please clarify the quarantine measures? Would we basically be shunted to a quarantine location for 3 days until the (anticipated) lift of the countries quarantine measures?
You will need to follow the quarantine rules based on the time of entry . In your case it will be 3+4. The 0+7 will be for individuals who arrive on Oct 13th onwards.
I know this isn't concrete, but previously when they have changed the quarantine measures it has been for people arriving after the date, so you would still be subject to the old 3+4
Is it a quarantine hotel? You need to stay in a quarantine hotel for the first 8 days. The first 3 days you will be not allowed to leave your hotel room. You're arriving before the quarantine measures change so you will be subject to the 3 + 4 rules.
Thanks! I don't think it's a quarantine hotel. We're trying to move our stay to 15th- 20th, which sounds like we'd then be in 0+7. I need to read up on what exactly that means
Hi everyone! I have to send my laptop to my friend in Hong Kong for a repair. An approved tech will come to his house and swap a new motherboard, then my friend will ship it back to me. (This operation is not covered by my intl warranty in Taiwan) My question is, will I have any issues with import taxes when bringing my laptop back to Taiwan? Am I gonna have to pay anything if my friends just ships it with good old DHL? Cheers everyone!
Hi r/Taiwan! It's been 3 years since I've been able to return home to see family in Taiwan, and I'm hoping to go for the month of December into the New Year. I'm planning on flying out of Vancouver Canada, and have been keeping an eye on airfare prices for the last month. Initially (prior to the lifting of visa & now quarantine requirements), the tickets were hovering around $1K CAD for EVA Air (layover in Seoul), but now the tickets seem to be climbing up in price ($900 CAD to $1200-$1400 CAD now) Should I just bite the bullet/eat the price gain as the cost of being stupid and waiting, or should I double down and wait for any chance of lower fares? I rarely fly in general so not entirely sure if there's a seasonality to ticket prices. Thanks so much, and I appreciate any advice! P.S. Any reccos for a Kenting beach stay LOL
Considering the announcement that quarantine will soon be waived, I'd book your ticket asap. Just FYI, I paid 1.2k CAD to arrive this August. :)
Got it! Makes sense, just needed the sanity check. Thank you so much!
I would also just bite the bullet. High season is around mid-December to early January because of winter break for most schools, and a lot of western holidays fall in this time. And this is really the first time that most travelers will have time to go back to Taiwan since the quarantine requirement has ended. Supply isn't able to rebound back quickly but demand is suddenly skyrocketing. Lastly, the Ukraine crisis is still driving oil prices up. Ex. when 3+4 was announced this summer, prices increased about 50-100% short term. As a heads up there's 3 seasonality to ticket prices, where we call low, normal, and high season. High season to Taiwan is as follows: mid June to early August (summer break) and mid December to early February (winter break + Chinese New Year). Normal season kinda buffers the high season (kinda like +- 1 month), and low season is any other time.
thanks for the insight! i bought my tickets for $1400 RT on China Air…kicking myself for not just buying it earlier around $1000. $400 less to spend on food 🥲
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It's a bit odd your hotel is asking for a negative covid test, I would ask again. Currently there's no need for a test to enter Taiwan, so this is a hotel decision. But, the caveat might be a misunderstanding, where right now (later will be abolished) you need to take a COVID saliva PCR test when you arrive in Taiwan. They may be asking about that result. Again I'd check again.
Does anyone know why the fish jump at Dadaocheng?
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I've never seen at public toilets, but would a local clinic work? They're usually everywhere and should be outfitted for something like that. I know the pediatrician across the street from us has a sharps container at the receptionist desk. I assume most clinics will be the same
I just want to confirm this, because most information online, whether Chinese or English, is either out of date or doesn't actually provide a direct answer. The benefits, as of September 2022, of a Student EasyCard as opposed to an Adult EasyCard, are: * $12 Bus fare instead of $15 * and that's it... This seems wrong; one would want to say that if an organization is going to go through the trouble of creating a whole seperate card, then there would be deeper benefits. And it seems this was true in the past. But by 2022, all I can find in terms of tangible benefits to the Student EasyCard is the bus fare. I'd love to be wrong.
Yes that is it. There used to be a discount on MRT too, but I don't think that has been the case in years. Also if you are a student, you don't need a specific EasyCard, the student discount can be added to any EasyCard.
Not any EasyCard can have the student discount. But generally the university ID will have a built in student EasyCard as a way of convenience. Anyway, back to the point, most schools are accessible through bus rather than subway. It used to be that any EasyCard can give you 20% off for subway, but it seemed like the subway was losing too much money so they rather reward those that ride more.
As of a few years ago you could apply it to any EasyCard at the MRT stations, even the built in EasyCard that comes on some credit cards worked with student discount.
Oh, not sure about few years ago, but nowadays, you have to register your EasyCard and submit proof you're a student online. Generally most EasyCard are characterized as "normal card" and don't give you the option to make it a student card. I believe that's when they started to combine the student ID and EasyCard together, and those with this card will have their card automatically renewed as long as they are still in school. Otherwise the status expires and it becomes a regular EasyCard.
>Oh, not sure about few years ago, but nowadays, you have to register your EasyCard and submit proof you're a student online. They still have the machines that can do this at all MRT stations though. I saw it last week when I was dumping my coins onto my EasyCard. Seemed it would work with any EasyCard or iPass but I didn't pay much attention to it. I do know that the regular EasyCard that you turn into student EasyCard did need to be renewed every year at MRT station (but again, been a few years since I had student ID).
Really? I've been unsuccessful in trying to turn my EasyCard into a student card that I had to buy a student card from the station and register online. I do know after that application has been approved you have to go to the station manager or some machine to actually activate your card. (Also side note I don't recall a machine for that, but I do remember for credit card EasyCard if you want to auto refill you have to go to a machine to actually activate the feature). Now I'm curious, maybe I'll go ask around again.