Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Taipei

What is special or unique about your city?

The capital of Taiwan, Taipei holds the world's best collection of Chinese art and historical artifacts. The largest representative is the Palace Museum, followed by the smaller collections in the Museum of Natural History and the private collection of The Chang Foundation, among others. While most of the city's museums are geared for Mandarin speakers, English tours are usually available either on schedule or by making a request in advance. There are also a large number of books published by the three collections named that are printed in Mandarin and English.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Taipei is an older city and the weather is not kind to the buildings, creating a somewhat grey and drab exterior to many downtown facades. Coupled with the fact that Mandarin is nothing like any romance language in written or spoken form, navigating the city in the first couple of months can be a frustrating experience. One 'trick' foreigners learn is to collect name cards and keep them in a book. Every business will have one, and you can simply show the card to a taxi driver to return to a shop or restaurant you've enjoyed.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Absolutely. Foreigners learn not to judge a book by its cover, and are pleasantly surprised at the number of interesting things to do and the beautiful corners in the city. Just ask the ones who stay for 10+ years or those who return! One of the most commonly held opinions among foreigners is that the Taiwanese are some of the most friendly and helpful people not just in Asia - but the world! This makes both working and living in Taiwan a great pleasure.

What is the local language?

Mandarin is the official language, but Taiwanese is also widely spoken - and there are a number of local dialects. You won't hear much English, but each office, bank or large store will generally have one staff member who can communicate in English. And in most cases, wherever you are, someone will speak enough English to help you find your way!

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Basic Mandarin classes are recommended for anyone who plans to live in the city for an extended period of time. Knowing numbers, how to correctly pronounce addresses and how to pronounce the names of basic food items are all extremely useful and can help to avoid undue frustration. Although Taipei is renowned for top Chinese eating establishments, menus in restaurants not frequented by foreigners are often only in Chinese. In addition, Taiwan's use of several Romanization systems means that city streets are often spelled differently on a map, guidebook and in some cases on the street itself. This can be very frustrating for those who first arrive, especially for people who may have studied Chinese outside of Taiwan and learned the HanYu Pin Yin system. It is a problem that the foreign expatriate community is urging the government to solve.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Try not to loose your temper and/or speak in a raised voice when angry or frustrated. Most Taiwanese are not used to this kind of behavior between strangers and will have difficulty dealing with it. It is always counterproductive. Expressing displeasure in a calm yet assertive manner or taking your complaint to the next level of responsibility are better methods.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Taiwan weather is very changeable, especially in the north where Taipei is located. There are two seasons in Taipei: cold and damp in the winter and hot and humid in the summer. Winter temperatures can go down to 7 degrees Celsius, which does not sound cold until you add in 80 percent humidity, no central heating and/or insulation and concrete buildings! Summer temperatures usually hover near the 34 to 36 degrees Celsius mark. While you can usually get away with not carrying an umbrella, bringing a light sweater or jacket along with you in the summer is a good idea, as most buildings are over-air conditioned. Dressing in layers year-round is a good practice.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Taipei is a busy, active city which has made great strides in the last few years toward providing quality cultural and community activities, as well as broadening the variety of entertainment available (local as well as international performance troupes, musical groups, etc.). The Taiwanese work hard and the concept of leisure time is still fairly new. However, this is changing rapidly and the number and types of entertainment venues are expanding to meet this burgeoning need.

Useful Links

Tourism Board - Taiwan www.taiwan.net.tw Helpful information on Taiwan's history www.taiwandc.org Virtual Taiwan www.virtualtaiwan.com Central Weather Bureau (information about the weather, updates of typhoons & earthquakes, forecast and so on.): www.cwb.gov.tw/V5e/index.htm www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Cabana/7031/

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Resident status is only given to an individual holding a valid work permit, and to those dependants who are legally the spouse or child of a person holding a work permit. The only exceptions are for those who are visiting Taiwanese family, or for those who are married to Taiwan nationals.

What kinds of visas are available?

Visa-exempt entry: this is a 30 day permit granted to individuals from certain listed countries who hold a return ticket with booked and confirmed passage before the end of the 30 days. It is intended to facilitate business travel into Taiwan. For more detailed information, please check the webpage below: http://www.boca.gov.tw/ct.asp?xItem=1443&ctNode=536&mp=2 Visitor's Visa - this visa allows the bearer to remain in Taiwan for 30 or 60 days, with a single or multiple entry. It may or may not be extended up to two times for a maximum of 60 days, for a total of no more than 180 consecutive days. Extensions are usually only granted for extenuating reasons (like hospitalization) or if the bearer is currently enrolled in a government-recognized language study facility. Residence Visa - this visa is granted to holders of work permits and their dependants, and is valid for the duration of the work permit. The maximum time allowable for the initial application of the work permit is three years, with extensions being granted for a maximum of two years thereafter. Single entries and multiple entries can be granted - most apply for the multiple entry. The Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is applied for in conjunction with the residence visa, and serves as the holder's ID card while in Taiwan. All foreigners in Taiwan are required to carry ID at all times.

What is required to obtain these visas?

You must be holding (and have entered Taiwan on) a visitor's visa before you can apply for a residence visa. Residence visas may only be applied for once the applicant is in Taiwan. 1. Visitor's visas can be obtained from the Taiwan Trade Office or Travel Service closest to your home. The application form must be filled out and passport-size photographs must be provided. Visitor's visas will not be granted to those whose passports have less than six month's validity, and it's best if your passport is valid for the entire duration of your initial assignment in Taiwan. If you have accompanying family members, it is a good idea at this stage to 'authenticate' your marriage certificate and the birth certificates for any children as well. If the certificates were issued in a place other than where you currently reside (i.e. different state or country), they must be sent to the Taiwan Trade Office nearest the place of issue. 2. Work permits can be applied for before or after you arrive in Taiwan. You will be asked to provide two passport-size photos, a copy of your passport information page, your original university degree and a letter from your home office stating your work history with the company. You must also fill out a form with pertinent personal details. The Taiwan branch of the company will also have to submit certain documents on your behalf. If all documentation is in order, the work permit will be granted in three to six weeks. 3. Prior to entering Taiwan, it should be understood that the preferred process for an individual who wishes to work in Taiwan is that they get a Resident Visa AND a Work Permit prior to traveling. The Work Permit should be applied for first by the corporate client in Taiwan and it would provide the basis for the Resident Visa applied for by an individual overseas. Dependents just apply for the Resident Visa. While it is possible to change from a Visitor visa to a Resident Visa in Taiwan after the issue of a Work Permit, this is not the recommended pathway. The following items will be required to acquire a Work Permit. • From individual 1. Photocopy of passport identification page 2. Two photos taken within the last 6 months 3. Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume, detailing educational qualifications and comprehensive work history 4. Photocopy of highest academic qualification in English* 5. Photocopy of statement (reference letter) in English from current/previous employer(s), certifying work experiences* 6. Photocopy of any training certificates or certificates of expertise in English, if academic qualification is less than a bachelor degree* 7. Home country residential address * Certain countries require the documents to be notarized by the Taiwan Consulate (ie. Malaysia, The Philippines) • From Company 1. Description of proposed job scope of Taiwan assignment 2. Employment : Copy of employment agreement Fulfilling contract: (1) Copy of services agreement between company (2) Copy of Appointment Letter / assignment letter 3. Copy of Company's latest year income tax return 4. Copy of Company's business license 5. Identification card of Company responsible person 6. Application Fee - NT$500 (cash) Once the applicant submits the application, the Work Permit will be granted in 5 to 10 days. 2. Accompanying family members must submit the above - as well as authenticated birth and marriage certificates. They must also go for a health check - the results of which are valid for three months. Children under the age of six do not need the health check, but must have original and current immunization records. If all documentation is in order, the residence visa (first) and ARCs (second) will be granted in three to six weeks It is suggested that you have about 20 copies of passport-sized photos made up. The ones not used for your immigration can be used later for your National Health Insurance (NHI) cards.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Only work permit holders are permitted to work, and then only for the sponsoring company. In an interesting twist, volunteering is considered work, regardless of whether or not you are paid for it, so it's wise to stick with low-profile good deeds. If your spouse wishes to find work, he or she may do so as long as the company he or she is working for is willing and able to apply for a work permit on his or her behalf. Employment for accompanying spouses is difficult to find - with the exception of work in the teaching profession. Other jobs are available, but sporadically.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

The ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) is the main form of identification - please see above.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

If you are a HK or PRC resident/citizen, please contact Crown Taipei for further details.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

The duty on alcohol and cigarettes is high.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Keep track of your work permit and ARC expiration dates! Usually your company will keep an eye on this for you, but it's best to also have an idea yourself. It's ideal to start the renewal process one month before expiration.

Useful Links

Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.boca.gov.tw Immigration Office www.immigration.gov.tw

 

What is the local currency?

The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar, commonly referred to as the NT (dollar).

What denominations does it come in?

Bills commonly come in denominations of 1,000, 500 and 100NT. Coins come in denominations of 50, 10, 5 and 1 NT. Much more rarely, you may come across a 2,000 or 200NT bill or 20NT coin. Hang onto these if you're a collector of currency.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Most larger local banks and international hotels will readily change USD, HKD, EUR and yen. Less common currencies may need to be exchanged at an international bank.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash and/or credit cards are the only way to pay for purchases. Checks are not commonly used in Taiwan, and are generally only for transferring large amounts of money (i.e. rental payments).

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most retail outlets will accept Visa and Mastercard; American Express is less commonly accepted. Chain grocery stores such as Carrefour, Costco, Welcome and Tesco will have at least one checkout line for credit cards. Corner stores, fresh markets and smaller independent stores still only take cash.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

These bills can be paid at the bank, by direct debit or at many convenience stores. If you wish to pay at a bank, the bottom part of the bill will be removed. The other part of the bill will be stamped with the date and returned to you. If you wish to directly debit your account, you must first take a copy of a utility bill to the bank. They will help you to fill out a form listing the address and other information from the bill. You will then have a line record in your bankbook every two months stating where the money was paid and in what amount. Easiest of all, you can pay at any 7-11, Circle K, Family Mart or other convenience store. Each utility bill now comes with a bar code, which the convenience store scans before accepting payment. You will be given a receipt for the payment. Rent can be paid by transfer through most ATMs, if you have the correct bank and account numbers. Your landlord can provide this to you. Otherwise your landlord may collect cash from you every month in person. If the lease is in the company's name, the company will have its finance department either transfer the money on the agreed-upon schedule, or will issue checks - sometimes post-dated for the year in advance.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Local bank accounts require that you posses an ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) before opening a bank account, and international banks often require you to hold the ARC for a certain period of time (often three to six months) before opening a account. International banks may require minimum balances depending on the type of account. Local banks will accept any amount for basic savings accounts.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

The International Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) branches in Tien Mou will have English-speaking staff, and all international banks will have English conversant staff. These include HSBC, Standard Chartered, ABN Amro, Bank of Montreal, etc. Most other languages are not accommodated, though you may occasionally find someone who speaks a little French.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Obtaining a credit card through a local bank or through an international bank can be difficult. American Express is the only one who will issue cards to foreigners solely on the basis that they hold an ARC and employment. Most other local and international institutions require the applicant to hold the ARC for a certain period of time and provide a credit history. It may also be necessary to provide a guarantor - a Taiwan national who will guarantee your balance in the event of default on your part. It would be best to continue carrying your home credit card unless there is a compelling reason not to.

What are typical banking hours?

Typical banking hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are available around the clock, and around the block! There are very few places in Taipei that are more than a five minute walk from a bank machine. Withdrawals from a machine that is not affiliated with your bank will cost 7NT - about 22 US cents.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Money gets spent very quickly in Taiwan! Converting back to your home country currency helps to keep the spending in control.

Useful Links

International Commercial Bank of China www.icbc.com.tw

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

The search for accommodations in Taipei can be long. Many buildings are older and the weather is very damaging, so the facades are often not inspiring. Plus, landlords do not paint or clean until they have a new tenant, which is good if you have a particular color in mind, but can be discouraging if you have difficulty seeing past the surface. That said, older apartments can look very good once they are repainted and cleaned, and they tend to be more centrally located and therefore are more convenient. There are also many new buildings going up in Taipei, though they tend to be far out of the city. Because of the new building code these have a greater public to private space ratio. Area measurements are given in ping, a unit of about 36 square feet or 3.5 square meters. Areas given for apartments will include that apartment's portion of the public space, or the landing, hallways, elevator, lobby and parking - if applicable. Older buildings can have a little as 10 percent public space, and new ones can have as much as 30 percent. Older buildings also do not always have parking available, while newer ones generally do.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Taipei is divided into north and south by the Keelung River. The most popular neighborhood on the north side is Tien Mou. It is where most expats with families traditionally live. That is because the international schools are located there, and Tien Mou itself is quite a green and convenient area, with many shops and conveniences located within walking distance. Most accommodations in this area are apartments, though there are also a number of houses with gardens and pools. The outside garden areas generally tend to be quite small. To the east and west of Tien Mou are Yang Ming Mountain (Shan) and Wellington Heights, respectively. Yang Ming Shan has two gated communities with houses, and a number of houses are strung along its main road and on several smaller roads that run off it. Houses there tend to be larger and have bigger gardens, and this area in particular is closest to the European School. Groceries and some amenities are available, but greater variety requires trips into Tien Mou (about 20 minutes away during the day). Public transportation is in the form of buses - large ones that use the main roads and smaller light buses that serve the smaller roads and link up with the MRT. Wellington Heights is a single gated community with houses that range in size. Groceries are not far, but other amenities require trips to Tien Mou. Public transportation is limited to calling for a taxi. The most popular area to the southeast is Hsin Yi. This is the newest area of the city with the greatest number of new buildings, including the Warner Village and Taipei 101, and is popular with expats for this reason. Public transportation is availbale - including the MRT and buses. Good accommodations are available in all other areas of the city, however, and anywhere you might choose to live in the downtown area will be close to one popular area or another.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats will almost exclusively rent their homes. Property is so expensive, that it is generally prohibitive to buy.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Deposits are always required and are repaid without interest at the end of the lease when the utilities have been paid. Generally, deposits are equivalent to two or three months' rent, and depend on what each landlord wants. A deposit of three months' rent is a little more common for properties that come furnished or cost over 200,000NT/month to rent.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are always excluded from the rental price, as are management fees for apartments. Also excluded are gardening, pool, maintenance and security fees for houses.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Very few parts of the greater Taipei area would be considered unsafe. In particular, the downtown or Tien Mou areas are viewed as very safe. Of course, general safety precautions apply for apartment living. Those who live in houses should ensure that there is a security system in place and in good working order, as the break-ins that do occur usually happen on landed properties. Only very wealthy people in Taiwan own or live in houses, and this makes them 'better' targets. On the positive side, thieves are not interested in anything other than money or portable valuables like jewelry. Violence and/or property destruction are extremely rare.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current is 110V and HZ is 60. The plug shape is the flat two-pin (as in North America), though adapters and transformers are available for three to two pin plugs.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Utilities are not expensive for the region. While generalizations cannot easily be made here, it is well worth it to remember that electricity fees per kilowatt hour go up with your consumption. This is intended to encourage people to be careful with their air conditioners in the summer. If you arrive in the summer, try to keep your consumption on the lower side until you receive the first bill. This will help you avoid any particularly unpleasant surprises. Management fees depend on a few factors: whether or not there is a security guard in the lobby, if there are facilities like a pool or gym in the building, and how many apartments in the building share the fees. These fees can be as low as 600NT per month and as high as 20,000NT. Gardening fees will generally depend on the size of your garden, and what the maintenance schedule is. A full day will be about 2,500NT and may or may not include pool cleaning. Gardeners generally come once a week for a full or half day, which works out to approximately 10,000NT/month for full days. Security fees are paid monthly, and are about 3,000 to 4,000NT/month - depending on the system and the coverage.

Useful Links

Hotels in Taipei www.taipei.taipei.taiwan.hotels-rates.com

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Unless one spouse is a Mandarin speaker, expats usually choose to send their children to private international schools. There is not a wide choice in Taipei, though the main languages/systems are all represented.

What are some examples of these schools?

Aside from the Taipei American School, there is the Taipei European School (British, French and German Schools), a Japanese School, and a small Korean School downtown. There are four other American curriculum, Christian schools located both downtown and on Yang Ming Shan.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Competition is increasing, though there is not the same worry over places that you'd have in a city like Hong Kong. It is best to contact the school of your choice as soon as you hear of a pending assignment to ensure you have the most current information on availability.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Most English language pre-schools will accept children from the age of 2.5, though a few will take younger children upon assessment. These schools are generally located in the Tien Mou area, though there are one or two in the downtown area. Alternately, a number of parents choose to send their children to Mandarin language pre-schools. That is because there is often such a pre-school located close to home, and the possibility of a child acquiring different language skills is attractive to many.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

The international schools all provide bus service for most ages. Pre-schools usually do not, and so parents will either walk or take public transport to school.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The school year starts in late August or early September and ends in late May or mid-June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Some schools have cafeteria facilities and some do not. After-school activities for younger children are provided through the Taipei Youth Program Association. Children from all of the international schools are eligible to register for their classes. Severe learning disabilities are generally not accommodated. Please contact the school directly with questions of this nature.

Useful Links

Pre-schools: Tiger Tots: www.typa.org.tw Happy Kids (downtown): www.happykidsschool.com.tw Child's World (contact by e-mail): childswo@ms42.hinet.net Grade schools: Taipei American School: www.tas.edu.tw Taipei European School: www.dasan.de/ds_taipei

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.