Taiwan (TW)
A safe, democratic, tech-forward island with excellent public healthcare, dense transit, world-class food culture, and a strong base for East Asia.
Digital Services
Digital ID, e-government and essential apps in Taiwan.
Citizen Digital Certificate / TW FidO / NIA and NHI digital services
Taiwan has strong e-government but access differs for citizens, ARC holders and Gold Card residents. Foreigners often use ARC number, NHI card and platform-specific verification.
How to get it: Use NHI card registration, NIA online services, Gold Card portal, tax e-filing credentials and bank verification as applicable. Citizen-only tools may not work for foreigners.
E-Government Portal
https://www.gov.tw/ARC ID format changes have improved compatibility, but some older systems still reject foreign IDs. Try desktop, app and in-person options.
Essential Apps
ExpatCheapRent
FreeExpat-focused cheap rental finder at expatcheaprent.com — compares listings across major rental portals to help newcomers find affordable apartments.
591.com.tw
FreeTaiwan's leading rental property platform — the primary source for apartment and house rentals in Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung and across Taiwan.
LINE
FreeDominant messaging app for friends, landlords, clinics, schools and workplaces.
NHI Express
FreeNHI information, vaccine/medical functions and digital health services where eligible.
Taiwan Railway app
FreeTRA train search and ticketing.
T-EX / THSR app
FreeHigh-speed rail tickets and mobile boarding.
Go! Taipei Metro
FreeMRT route planning and station info.
YouBike 2.0
FreeBike-share rental and station availability.
Taiwan Weather
FreeCentral Weather Administration typhoon, rain and earthquake info.
Google Maps
FreeTransit, walking and business hours; still verify small clinic/shop hours.
Foodpanda
FreeFood and grocery delivery in major cities.
Uber Eats
FreeFood delivery in major cities.
Taiwan Taxi 55688
FreeTaxi booking with reduced language friction.
LINE TAXI
FreeTaxi booking integrated with LINE.
Shopee Taiwan
FreeMajor e-commerce platform with convenience-store pickup.
Momo
FreeFast local e-commerce for household goods and electronics.
Pleco
FreeChinese dictionary essential for labels, menus and paperwork.
Google Translate / Papago
FreeQuick OCR/translation for documents and menus.
A local mobile number is the practical key to apps, bank OTPs, parcel delivery and government services. Keep it active when changing ARC/employer.