Planning a trip to Taiwan? Get ready for an adventure filled with bustling night markets, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. But before you pack your bags, let's talk about something that often slips under the radar: roaming charges in Taiwan.

Are there roaming charges in Taiwan?

Yes, roaming charges can apply when you use your home network's service in Taiwan. These charges depend on your mobile carrier and the agreements they have with Taiwanese networks. It's crucial to check with your provider before traveling, as rates can vary significantly. Some carriers offer international plans or add-ons that can reduce costs, but without these, you might face hefty fees for calls, texts, and data usage.

When do roaming charges apply in Taiwan?

Roaming charges typically kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Taiwanese network. This usually happens automatically when you land in Taiwan and turn on your phone. Even if you're not actively using your device, it may still incur charges for receiving calls or texts. Data roaming can be particularly expensive, so it's wise to turn off mobile data or enable airplane mode until you've sorted out a local solution or confirmed your international plan details.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Taiwan

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

Here's a breakdown of roaming charges and plans for some major international carriers for the Taiwan:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Taiwan package limited to 14 days for €29.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Keep in mind that these charges can add up quickly, especially for longer stays, making alternatives like Roamless eSIM an attractive option for many travelers.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Taiwan

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more details. Here are some tips:

• Upon arrival in Taiwan, keep your phone in airplane mode to avoid automatic network connections.

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible for data usage.

• If you need constant connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or using an eSIM service.

• Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip to reduce data usage.

• Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi for communication.

• Monitor your usage regularly if you do use roaming services.

Roamless eSIM in Taiwan

Roamless eSIM offers a modern solution to roaming challenges, perfectly suited for travel to Taiwan:

• No Speed Throttling: Enjoy full-speed data just like the locals.

• Pay-As-You-Go Flexibility: Only pay for what you use, ideal for varying trip lengths.

• Never-Expiring Funds: Your balance stays valid for future trips.

• Multi-Country Compatibility: One eSIM works across multiple countries, perfect for island-hopping.

• Local Network Speeds: Connect to Taiwan's top networks for optimal performance.

• Easy Activation: Set up your eSIM before you land and connect instantly upon arrival.

• Eco-Friendly: No physical SIM card needed, reducing plastic waste.

You can visit our eSIM Taiwan page or read our guide on the best eSIM for Taiwan before planning your travel. With eSIM, you can focus on exploring Taiwan's vibrant cities and stunning landscapes without worrying about connectivity issues or unexpected charges.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/taiwan

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/taiwan

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Taiwan

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass