Safety and Security

Taiwan is a modern democracy with vibrant public participation.  Political demonstrations are common, especially around election time.  Since Taiwan democratized in the early 1990s, there have been few cases of political violence.  But even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational.  You should avoid protests if possible and exercise caution in the vicinity of any political demonstrations.  The American Citizens Services Unit of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) will post notices regarding demonstrations in Taiwan on the AIT website whenever it receives reliable information about them.  In most cases, AIT will not send out an Emergency or Security Message when it has information on a planned demonstration. 

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the American Institute in Taiwan on Twitter and visit AIT’s website
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: Although the overall violent-crime rate in Taiwan is low, you should avoid high crime areas, namely areas where massage parlors, barbershops, and nightclubs operate as covers for prostitution, and are often run by criminals.  These illicit establishments generally do not advertise, and casual passersby cannot view their interiors.  Several U.S. citizens have been assaulted in these establishments and in the areas near bar and nightclub districts.  In contrast to these illegal operations, ordinary barbershops and other legitimate businesses prominently advertise their services, and you can see the interiors through storefront windows.  Taiwan’s public buses and subway are generally considered safe, but passengers—particularly women--in taxis should exercise caution when traveling alone late at night.  In several parts of Taiwan, incidents of purse snatching by thieves on motorcycles have been reported.  You should keep a photocopy of your passport, other identification, and credit cards in a safe place.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, but you may also be breaking local law.

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. consular official.  We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and, if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.  

The National Immigration Agency has foreign affairs sections that are usually staffed by English-speaking officers:  Taipei:  (02) 2389-9983; Kaohsiung:  (07) 282-1400; Tainan:  (06) 293-7641; Taichung:  (04) 2254-9981; Taitung:  (089) 3610631; Pingtung:  (08) 766-1885.

Ambulance and Fire Emergency Telephone:  119 (24-hour service)
Police Emergency Telephone:  110
Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault Emergency Telephone:  113 (Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)
A 24-hour telephone number for general information:  0800-024-111.  English speaking operators are available on all lines.  If calling from outside Taiwan, dial 886-800-024-111.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.