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Yevhenii Kuznietsov
Published on
Jul 9 2024
As international travel becomes more seamless, staying connected while abroad is easier than ever with the help of eSIMs. If you're planning a trip to Taiwan, you might be wondering how to get mobile data on your phone without the hassle of inserting a physical SIM card or visiting a store. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about setting up and using an eSIM in Taiwan.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card. Rather than inserting a physical card into your mobile phone, you can install an eSIM via a QR code or mobile app. The eSIM card is embedded directly into your device's hardware and functions the same as a physical card, giving you access to cellular data, calls, and text services depending on the plan you choose.
With the growing adoption of eSIM service, especially in iPhone models starting with the iPhone XS and newer Android device models, travelers can enjoy seamless connectivity without SIM swaps.
Before purchasing a Taiwan eSIM, you should verify eSIM compatibility with your phone. Most newer smartphones, such as:
iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15
Google Pixel 3 and newer
Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, Z Fold, Z Flip
…are compatible with eSIM. If you’re unsure, go to settings on your phone and search for “SIM card manager” or “add cellular plan” to check.
No Physical SIM Needed: Activate your plan instantly without visiting a store or handling a physical card.
Keep Home SIM Active: Use local data while still receiving calls and texts on your home number.
Quick Setup: Set up your eSIM in minutes right from your device—anytime, anywhere.
No Unlocking Issues: Most eSIM-compatible phones work without needing to unlock or modify settings.
Easy to Switch or Top Up: Change carriers or add more data directly through your phone settings.
Avoid high data roaming fees: Use a local or regional eSIM plan to bypass costly international roaming charges.
When choosing an eSIM for Taiwan, you can go with either local or international providers, depending on your stay length, data needs, and device compatibility.
If you're in Taiwan for a longer stay or need a local phone number, local providers are a solid option. They offer high-speed data, strong network coverage, and better integration with local services.
Chunghwa Telecom: Taiwan’s largest network, offering reliable coverage and generous data plans. eSIM activation may require in-store ID verification.
Taiwan Mobile: Known for competitive rates and good support in cities. Some plans include incoming calls and can be activated in-store.
FarEasTone: Offers data bundles ideal for tourists and long-term visitors. Good city coverage and solid customer service, though physical store visits are often needed for setup.
These providers are great for full-featured mobile use but may involve more complex activation processes.
Great for short-term stays or travelers who want quick, remote setup with data-only plans.
Airalo: Easy setup via app or QR code. Offers flexible Taiwan data plans starting from 1 GB, valid for 7 to 30 days.
Holafly: Best for unlimited data users. Simple setup and 24/7 support, but doesn’t include local numbers or SMS.
Nomad eSIM: Affordable data options up to 10 GB. Ideal for travelers wanting flexible, no-contract plans.
Global Yo: Offers Taiwan and regional plans with app-based activation, AI-powered travel assistance, and reward points. Great for digital nomads needing seamless connectivity across Asia without store visits.
You can purchase an eSIM plan online from global vendors like Nomad, Airalo, or directly from local network providers. Most will email a QR code or allow you to activate through an app.
Buying online before your trip is recommended, especially if you want internet access immediately after landing.
Follow these steps to activate your eSIM in Taiwan:
Choose your preferred eSIM provider and select a data plan that suits your data usage (e.g., 1GB, 5GB, unlimited). Be sure to check the billing cycle and whether you can share data across devices.
Make sure your phone is connected to a stable WiFi connection before beginning the setup process.
iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
Android: Go to Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier
Scan the QR code or follow the on screen instructions if you're using an app.
Decide whether to use your eSIM line as the primary SIM for mobile data, calls, or texts. This is ideal if you want to maintain your home SIM for incoming calls and texts while abroad.
Wait for the activation process to finish. You may need to restart your phone or toggle airplane mode briefly to refresh the network.
Taiwan offers excellent local network coverage and data speeds, making it easy to stream, use maps, video call, and stay active on social media. Estimate your data usage based on activities:
1GB: Light browsing, messaging (1–2 days)
5GB: Maps, social media, browsing (3–7 days)
10GB or unlimited: Streaming, video calls, longer stays
Choose your eSIM plan based on how long you’ll stay and how you plan to use data services.
If your eSIM card isn’t activating, try these quick steps:
Check Compatibility: Make sure your device supports eSIM—not all models do.
Use Stable Wi-Fi: A reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential during activation.
Rescan QR Code: Try scanning the QR code again—make sure it’s clear and unobstructed.
Restart Your Device: Restarting can help refresh network and cellular settings.
Contact Provider: Reach out to your eSIM provider for help if the issue continues.
Top up in advance: If your plan is running low, especially before remote or rural trips where connectivity may be limited.
Download offline maps: Apps like Google Maps or Maps.me can help you navigate without using up your data.
Set data usage alerts: Enable alerts in your phone settings to stay on top of your data consumption.
Label your eSIM profile: Use a clear name like “Taiwan Travel” to avoid confusion if you’re using multiple SIMs.
Keep your home SIM active: Useful for receiving verification texts or emergency messages while abroad.
Can I use my eSIM and physical SIM at the same time? Yes, most phones that support eSIM also support dual SIM functionality.
Do I need a local number? Not necessarily. Many travelers use data-only plans with messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram.
What if I switch phones during my trip? You'll need to deactivate your current eSIM and install it on the new phone. Some providers allow reactivation via the app.
Is eSIM coverage reliable across Taiwan? Yes. Most providers use top-tier local networks like Chunghwa or Taiwan Mobile.
Can I receive calls with an eSIM? Only if your plan supports it. Most international eSIMs are data-only, but local providers may offer full services.
An eSIM in Taiwan is the smartest way to stay connected with high-speed mobile data and avoid traditional sim cards. With a quick setup process, flexible plans, and the ability to activate your eSIM remotely, it's a traveler-friendly solution for digital convenience. Whether you're exploring Taipei or traveling through scenic landscapes, your mobile phone will be ready to connect you to everything Taiwan has to offer.
So, pick your Taiwan eSIM, scan the QR code, and start counting the memories—not the roaming charges.
Yevhenii Kuznietsov
[email protected]Yevhenii Kuznietsov blends journalism with a passion for travel tech. He explores eSIM's impact on communication and travel, offering expert interviews and gadget reviews. Outside of writing, Yevhenii is a hiking enthusiast and drone hobbyist, capturing unique travel vistas.
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