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Taipei SIM Card Guide
Stay connected from the moment you land. Compare providers, plans, and eSIM options.
Major Providers
Chunghwa Telecom
Coverage: Excellent
Speed: Fastest
Pros: Best coverage, reliable
Cons: Slightly pricier
Taiwan Mobile
Coverage: Very good
Speed: Fast
Pros: Good value, tourist plans
Cons: Rural coverage weaker
FarEasTone
Coverage: Very good
Speed: Fast
Pros: Competitive pricing
Cons: Less rural coverage
Tourist Plan Comparison
| Plan | Data | Price | Provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist SIM (3 days) | Unlimited | NT$300 | All carriers |
| Tourist SIM (7 days) | Unlimited | NT$500 | All carriers |
| Tourist SIM (15 days) | Unlimited | NT$800 | All carriers |
| Tourist SIM (30 days) | Unlimited | NT$1,000 | All carriers |
| eSIM (3 days) | Unlimited | NT$350 | Airalo, Holafly |
| eSIM (7 days) | Unlimited | NT$550 | Airalo, Holafly |
Where to Buy
Taoyuan Airport Terminal 1
Kiosks in arrivals hall
Hours: 24/7
Taoyuan Airport Terminal 2
Kiosks in arrivals hall
Hours: 24/7
Songshan Airport
Limited kiosks
Hours: Flight hours
Convenience Stores (7-11, FamilyMart)
Prepaid SIM cards
Hours: 24/7
Carrier Stores
Full service and plans
Hours: Business hours
eSIM Tips
- eSIMs activate instantly — no physical card needed
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM before buying
- Airalo and Holafly offer Taiwan-specific plans
- Keep your home SIM for WhatsApp and banking apps
- Download the eSIM before you arrive for instant activation
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my phone need to be unlocked to use a Taiwan SIM card?
Yes, your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use a local Taiwan SIM card. If your phone is locked to your home carrier, contact them before traveling to request an unlock. Most carriers will unlock your phone if your contract is complete.
Is coverage good outside of Taipei with Taiwan SIM cards?
Chunghwa Telecom has the best coverage across Taiwan, including rural and mountain areas. Taiwan Mobile and FarEasTone are excellent in cities and towns but may have weaker coverage in remote areas. For hiking and rural travel, Chunghwa is the safest choice.
Can I use dual SIM with a Taiwan eSIM?
Yes, if your phone supports dual SIM (most modern iPhones and Android phones do), you can keep your home SIM active for calls and texts while using the Taiwan eSIM for data. This is the most convenient setup for travelers.
How long do tourist SIM plans last?
Tourist SIM plans are available for 3, 7, 15, and 30 days with unlimited data. The 7-day plan (NT$500) is the most popular for typical week-long trips. Plans activate upon first use, not upon purchase.
Should I buy a SIM at the airport or in the city?
Buying at the airport is the most convenient — kiosks are open 24/7 in the arrivals hall and staff speak English. Prices are the same as in the city. If you prefer to compare options, carrier stores in Taipei offer the full range of plans.
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