Life in Taiwan (Taipei) Practical Guide for Incoming Students

1) Getting started: typical upfront costs

To help you plan with confidence, here are the most common first step costs for international students.

• Resident Visa fee (reference): Single-entry Resident Visa is NTD 2,200 if applying in Taiwan, and USD 66 if applying overseas.
• ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) fee: NTD 1,000 per year of validity (some cases may require an additional fee depending on your entry status).

2) Monthly living cost in Taipei

Taipei is a vibrant student city with convenient transport, strong healthcare support, and an excellent quality of life. As a reference, the Ministry of Education lists Taipei: NTD 28,550 per month as an average living cost estimate (actual spending varies by lifestyle).

3) Accommodation: on campus dorms and off campus housing

If you want the simplest, most student-friendly option, on campus dormitories are often the best starting point.

NTUNHS on campus dormitory fees (reference)
Based on the university Housing Office fee schedule (fees are in NTD; actual charges follow the latest official announcement):

• Buildings A and B, 4-person room: First semester 11,000, second semester 9,000
• Building C, 4-person suite: First semester 19,250, second semester 15,750, summer 1,750 per week
• Building C, 2-person suite: First semester 33,000, second semester 27,000, summer 3,000 per week
• Building C, accessible room: First semester 33,000, second semester 27,000, summer 3,000 per week
• Network service fee: First semester 1,000, second semester 800, summer 50 per week
• Electricity: NTD 4.5 per kWh, charged by actual usage
• Security deposit: NTD 1,000

Off campus housing is also widely available, and many students choose shared apartments or private rooms depending on budget and lifestyle.

4) Transportation: easy and affordable

Taipei’s public transportation is reliable and student-friendly.

• Taipei Metro single-journey fare: NTD 20 to 65 depending on distance.
• TPASS monthly commuter pass (Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Keelung): NTD 1,200 for 30 days, offering unlimited rides within the coverage area (subject to pass rules).

5) Safety: peace of mind for students

Taiwan is widely regarded as a safe destination for international students. Travel advisories commonly note that crime rates are very low, while still recommending normal precautions such as keeping belongings secure in crowded areas.

6) Part-time work rules (important for applicants)

Many students ask about part-time work. Taiwan has clear rules designed to protect students.

• Work permit required: International students must obtain a valid work permit before working.
• Work hour limit during academic term: Maximum 20 hours per week during the semester; the limit is relaxed during summer and winter breaks.
• Minimum wage (effective Jan 1, 2026): Monthly NTD 29,500, hourly NTD 196.

7) National Health Insurance (NHI): healthcare support after you settle in

• Eligibility: ARC holders must enroll in NHI after 6 months of residence (or immediately upon legal employment).
• Premium reference: Since January 2021, Category 6 is commonly cited as NTD 826 per month (individual share).