Taiwan – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Taiwan, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Taiwan’s assigned country code is 886. To place a call to Taiwan from another country, you first dial your local international access code (typically 00 or the + symbol), then 886, then the relevant area code with its leading zero removed, and finally the local subscriber number. The leading zero of the area code is only used when dialling domestically.

When calling between different regions within Taiwan, you must include the full area code preceded by a trunk prefix “0”. However, calls made within the same area code region do not require the area code at all. This approach mirrors the domestic long-distance dialling conventions used in countries like Germany and France, where inter-regional calls require a trunk prefix.

Taiwanese mobile numbers are ten digits in length, beginning with the digits 09, followed by an operator-specific digit and then seven more digits — for example, 0921234567. When dialling a Taiwan mobile number from overseas, the leading 0 is dropped, so the number begins with 9 after the country code +886.

The table below sets out area codes for the cities and regions where expats most commonly settle. When dialling any of these from outside Taiwan, remember to omit the leading zero.

Combined area code and local number digits total eight in most regions, though Taipei and certain adjacent areas have nine-digit combinations. Toll-free numbers in Taiwan use the prefixes 0800 and 0809. The two key emergency numbers to remember are 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services.

Who are the major landline providers in Taiwan, and how can you contact them?

Taiwan’s fixed-line telecommunications sector is well developed alongside its mobile market. The two principal fixed-network operators are Chunghwa Telecom and Taiwan Fixed Network. For most newcomers, Chunghwa Telecom will be the first — and often the only — fixed-line provider they need to consider.

Chunghwa Telecom holds the position of Taiwan’s largest telecoms company. Founded originally as a state entity, it was privatised in 2005 and has since invested heavily in fibre optic infrastructure. While overall fixed-line subscriber numbers have been gradually declining, Chunghwa has slowed this trend by integrating landline voice into attractive fibre broadband bundles, meaning that most expats who want a home phone number will obtain it as part of a combined broadband package rather than as a standalone product.

Cable operators have also maintained a meaningful share of the residential market, partly because they offer an alternative route into homes that bypasses Chunghwa Telecom’s control of the copper and fibre last-mile infrastructure. Cable providers typically bundle telephony with television and internet services. If your apartment building is wired for cable, your landlord or building manager can advise on which operators serve that property.

Oversight of fixed-line services falls under the National Communications Commission (NCC), Taiwan’s independent telecoms regulator. The NCC publishes consumer information and administers a formal complaints process. Because tariffs and plan structures are subject to change, always consult providers’ official websites for the most up-to-date pricing before making any commitments.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Taiwan, and how can you contact them?

Taiwan’s mobile market is now effectively a three-operator landscape comprising Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone Telecommunications. Both Taiwan Mobile and Far EasTone completed significant consolidation moves — Taiwan Mobile absorbed Taiwan Star, while Far EasTone merged with Asia Pacific Telecom — and all three operators reported solid results in 2024 driven by rising average revenue per user, B2B expansion, and ongoing network investment.

Each of the three operators runs its own network infrastructure, together reaching over 99% of Taiwan’s population across 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G technologies. Smaller MVNO providers also operate in the market, often at lower price points, though they typically rely on host-network infrastructure and maintain a smaller retail footprint.

Chunghwa Telecom holds the top position in independent network benchmarking. According to the latest Opensignal report, it leads the market in 5G download speeds — recording an average of 305.6 Mbps — and also tops overall download performance across all network types at 98.8 Mbps. Its 4G LTE network reaches over 99% of the population, and it operates the largest chain of retail service centres in Taiwan. English-language customer support is available, making it the natural first choice for many newly arrived expats.

Taiwan Mobile ranks second for both 4G and 5G network scale, also covering more than 99% of the population. Independent data from OpenSignal puts typical 4G download speeds at around 42 Mbps. English support at its retail locations is more limited than Chunghwa Telecom’s, and its store network, while extensive, is smaller.

Far EasTone, the third-ranked operator by subscriber share, has made substantial investments in its 4G and 5G infrastructure. Its 4G speeds are broadly comparable to Taiwan Mobile based on OpenSignal data, and its 5G network now covers all major urban centres with rollout continuing.

As of 2024, postpaid plans with unlimited 4G data and bundled local minutes begin at roughly NT$499–699 per month, though specific pricing and plan structures evolve regularly. Verify current rates directly on each provider’s website before signing up. The NCC website publishes market comparison data that can help consumers assess their options.

How do I get a landline connected in Taiwan?

Setting up a fixed telephone line in Taiwan is a relatively uncomplicated process. Chunghwa Telecom is the provider most residents turn to first. As with comparable markets such as Japan and South Korea, you will need to verify your identity and provide proof of your address, either by visiting a service centre in person or through an online application.

Both tenants and property owners are eligible to apply, though tenants may be asked to produce a signed rental agreement as evidence of their address. The steps below outline what to expect.

1. Choose your provider. For most addresses, Chunghwa Telecom is the primary option for a standalone fixed line. If your building has cable infrastructure, ask your landlord or building manager whether a cable telephony service is available from a local cable operator.
2. Visit a service centre or apply online. Chunghwa Telecom operates service centres (業務處) in cities throughout Taiwan. Applications can also be submitted via its website at www.cht.com.tw or by calling 123. English assistance is available at certain branches in urban areas.
3. Prepare your documents. You will need a valid passport or Alien Resident Certificate (ARC/APRC), documentation confirming your Taiwan address (such as a signed lease, a utility bill, or a household registration record), and your contact details. Foreign nationals applying for a postpaid landline account are generally required to present their ARC.
4. Select your plan. The majority of residents choose a combined package that pairs a fixed telephone number with fibre broadband access, rather than subscribing to a voice-only landline. Some packages additionally include cable television. Consult the provider’s website for current pricing on the date you apply.
5. Await installation. Once your application is approved, a technician appointment will be scheduled. In urban locations this usually falls within a few working days, while more remote areas may involve longer lead times. Confirm the expected installation date at the time of application.
6. Pay any deposit (if required). Deposits are not applied universally but may be requested from foreign nationals who do not yet hold a long-term residency certificate. Ask about deposit requirements when you submit your application, and confirm current policies directly with the provider, as these can change over time.

If you encounter problems with a provider or wish to understand your consumer rights, the National Communications Commission (NCC) handles telecoms complaints, while the Consumer Protection Commission covers broader consumer protection matters.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Taiwan?

Acquiring a mobile SIM — whether prepaid or postpaid — is quick and user-friendly in Taiwan. Unlike certain European markets such as Germany or Italy, where strict prepaid registration rules can slow down activation, Taiwan’s system is designed to get customers connected with minimal friction.

Prepaid SIM cards are the ideal starting point for new arrivals, short-term visitors, and anyone still waiting for their residency documents to come through. Your best option is to visit an operator retail outlet — present in major cities and at international airports across Taiwan — and have your passport ready. Chunghwa Telecom also operates round-the-clock self-service SIM vending machines at airports and MRT stations, allowing you to get online the moment you land. Prepaid SIMs from all three major operators are additionally sold at major convenience store chains including 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Hi-Life.

Postpaid contracts offer more value for money over the long term and are well suited to residents with settled accommodation. They generally require a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC or APRC) together with your passport. Some providers may also request a local bank account number or a security deposit from foreign nationals who have recently relocated. Taiwanese nationals presenting a National ID card face no additional requirements. This requirement for residency documentation mirrors the approach taken in other markets such as Japan, where proof of status is standard for postpaid accounts.

1. Choose your operator. Weigh up network coverage in your area, your data requirements, and the availability of English-language customer support. Chunghwa Telecom is the recommended option for rural locations; all three operators deliver strong performance in city areas.
2. Visit a store or apply online. Online applications are possible through each operator’s website, but many foreign nationals find an in-person visit to a branch more straightforward for a first contract, since staff can help clarify any documentation questions on the spot.
3. Bring your documents. For prepaid: a passport is all you need. For postpaid: bring your passport along with your ARC/APRC, and be prepared to provide local bank account details or a deposit if requested.
4. Select your plan. Both prepaid and postpaid options are widely available. As of 2023, postpaid unlimited data plans started at around NT$499–699 per month depending on the provider, though pricing and plan details change frequently — always check each operator’s website for current offers.
5. Register your SIM. All SIMs purchased in Taiwan must be registered against identity documentation. Registration takes place at the point of sale or activation and is a standard requirement applicable to all customers.
6. Activate and top up (prepaid). Prepaid credit can be added at convenience stores, through each operator’s mobile app, or via online portals. Some operators, including Taiwan Mobile, offer online SIM ordering with delivery to a hotel or home address.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Taiwan?

Telecoms bills in Taiwan are generated monthly, with payment due by a specified date. Missed payments can attract late charges or, in persistent cases, temporary service suspension. Taiwan’s well-developed financial infrastructure means that there is a wide range of convenient payment methods available for both mobile and landline accounts.

• Automatic bank debit (直接扣款): The most widely used method among postpaid customers. By authorising a direct debit mandate, your account is charged automatically on the due date each month. This can be set up through the provider’s online portal or at a service centre.
• Credit or debit card autopay: You can link a credit or debit card to your account for recurring monthly charges, either online or in person at a service branch.
• Convenience store payment: Bills can be settled in cash at any 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Hi-Life outlet using the payment barcode included with your bill. This is particularly handy for those who prefer handling transactions in person.
• Online banking: Most Taiwanese banks allow telecoms providers to be set up as payees within their internet banking platforms, enabling straightforward recurring or one-off bill payments — much like bill-pay functionality common in other countries.
• Provider app or website: All three major operators provide apps and web portals where you can review your bill and pay by card or bank transfer at any time.
• ATM payment: A large proportion of ATMs in Taiwan are equipped with barcode scanners or account lookup features that support utility and telecoms bill settlement.
• Post office (Chunghwa Post): Bills can be paid over the counter at post office branches, which is a useful option in rural districts where other payment facilities may be less accessible.

Prepaid users maintain their balance by purchasing top-up credit at convenience stores, through operator apps, or on provider websites. The process is fast and broadly similar to prepaid top-up systems in most countries. Late payment policies can differ between providers, so if you expect to miss a payment deadline, contact your provider in advance to understand the consequences and available options.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Taiwan as a newcomer?

Taiwan’s mobile networks offer excellent connectivity, but with three full-scale operators to choose from, it can take a little research to identify which best suits your needs. The points below cover the most useful things to know when you first arrive.

Coverage quality: Chunghwa Telecom leads on speed benchmarks, recording an average 5G download speed of 305.6 Mbps compared with 218.9 Mbps for Far EasTone and 183 Mbps for Taiwan Mobile, while also topping the rankings for overall download performance across all network types at 98.8 Mbps. Coverage across all three operators is excellent in cities and suburbs. In mountainous terrain and on some outlying islands, signal quality may vary, though in most populated areas even secondary operators perform reliably.

eSIM availability: All three major operators now support eSIM on compatible handsets. Taiwan Mobile, for instance, has incorporated eSIM technology into various services, including the ability to make calls and use data under an existing mobile number on supported devices. Activation procedures and the list of compatible devices differ by operator and are updated regularly — check the relevant provider’s website for current details. Travellers and new arrivals can also purchase Taiwan eSIMs from international resellers before they land, which is a convenient way to be connected from the moment of arrival.

Number porting: Mobile number portability (MNP) is fully supported across Taiwan’s mobile market. If you wish to switch operators while retaining your existing Taiwan number, you can initiate a porting request at your chosen new operator’s store, bringing your identification and current SIM. Porting is typically completed within a few business days, which compares favourably to some markets where the process takes considerably longer. Confirm the current expected timeline with your new provider when you submit the request.

International roaming: All three operators offer roaming packages for travel abroad. It is advisable to activate a package before you depart, as data usage without one can incur very high charges. Some residents prefer to buy a local SIM at their destination rather than rely on roaming. Check your provider’s current roaming tariffs on its official website before any international trip.

Keeping a foreign number: Direct porting of a foreign mobile number onto a Taiwanese SIM is not possible. If continued access to your home-country number matters to you, consider keeping that SIM active on an affordable international roaming or data-only plan, or using a VoIP service that routes calls through your original number while you use a local Taiwanese SIM for day-to-day use.

Language of service: Chunghwa Telecom provides English-language customer support and is the most accessible option for expats who are not yet comfortable in Mandarin. Taiwan Mobile and Far EasTone maintain English websites but offer more limited English telephone assistance. In major city branches, many front-line staff have a working level of English. For detailed enquiries, Chunghwa Telecom’s larger urban service centres and its English helpline are the most reliable starting point.

5G rollout: Taiwan’s operators collectively passed 10 million 5G subscriptions by December 2024, with approximately 19.5 million users still on 4G plans. Strong 5G coverage is already established in Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Hsinchu. Before choosing a 5G plan, confirm that your specific address or frequent locations fall within the operator’s 5G coverage area.

For authoritative consumer guidance on telecommunications rights, the National Communications Commission (NCC) — Taiwan’s independent telecoms regulator operating under the Executive Yuan — is the most reliable resource.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Taiwan?

It is not possible to transfer a foreign mobile number directly onto a Taiwanese SIM card. If you need to remain reachable on your overseas number, the most practical approaches are to keep your home-country SIM active on a low-cost international roaming or data-only plan, or to use a VoIP application — such as WhatsApp or a dedicated VoIP service — that channels calls through your original number while you use a local Taiwanese SIM for everyday calling and data.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Taiwan?

A local address is not required for a prepaid SIM — your passport alone is sufficient. For a postpaid contract, you will ordinarily need to supply both a Taiwan address and a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). If you have just arrived and are staying in a hotel or temporary accommodation, taking out a prepaid SIM is the simplest way to stay connected while you establish your permanent address and work through the residency documentation process.

Can tourists and short-term visitors get a SIM card in Taiwan?

Yes. Visitors have several convenient options: operator retail outlets at international airports and throughout major cities, Chunghwa Telecom’s 24-hour self-service SIM vending machines located at airports and MRT stations, and major convenience store chains such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Hi-Life, all of which stock prepaid SIMs from the main operators. Visitors are restricted to prepaid products and cannot sign postpaid contracts.

What documents do I need to sign up for a postpaid mobile contract in Taiwan?

Standard requirements include a valid passport, an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC or APRC), and a local address. Depending on the provider, recently arrived foreign nationals may also be asked to supply local bank account details or pay a refundable security deposit. Requirements are not identical across all three operators, so it is worth checking each provider’s current conditions on its website or asking at a service centre before you apply.

How long does it take to get a landline connected in Taiwan?

In urban areas, Chunghwa Telecom typically schedules a technician visit within a few working days of approving an application. In more rural or remote locations, waiting times may be somewhat longer. Confirm the anticipated installation date with the provider at the time you apply. Many expats find that arranging a bundled fibre broadband and landline package is a more seamless process than applying for a voice-only fixed line.

Is 5G available in Taiwan, and how good is the coverage?

Taiwan’s mobile operators collectively surpassed 10 million 5G subscriptions by December 2024, with networks continuing to expand. All major cities — including Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Hsinchu — have solid 5G coverage, while 4G remains the dominant technology in rural and mountainous districts. Before committing to a 5G plan, use your chosen operator’s online coverage map to verify availability at your specific locations.

Are eSIMs available from Taiwan’s mobile operators?

Yes. Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone all offer eSIM support for eligible devices. Taiwan Mobile, for example, has deployed eSIM technology across a range of its services, including connectivity products that allow users to call and access data on supported handsets under an existing number. Activation steps and the list of supported devices vary between operators and are subject to change, so consult the relevant provider’s website for up-to-date instructions. Taiwan-specific data eSIMs are also sold by international resellers and can be purchased ahead of travel.

Who regulates telephone services in Taiwan, and how do I make a complaint?

Telecommunications services in Taiwan fall under the regulatory authority of the National Communications Commission (NCC), which operates under the Executive Yuan. If you have a grievance regarding a telecoms provider — whether relating to billing accuracy, service quality, or contract conditions — you can reach the NCC through its official website at www.ncc.gov.tw. The Consumer Protection Commission at www.cpc.gov.tw also deals with wider consumer protection issues. As a general rule, it is advisable to work through your provider’s own dispute resolution process before escalating a matter to the regulator.