Living in Taichung as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Foreigners who want to live and work in Taichung will need to obtain an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and a Resident Visa from the National Immigration Agency (NIA). The process can be complex and time-consuming, so expats are advised to seek the assistance of a reputable visa agency or an immigration lawyer.

Language resources

Taiwan has a number of language learning resources, including language schools, language exchange programs, and social clubs. Many expats find it helpful to start learning Mandarin before arriving in Taiwan, although English is widely spoken in Taichung.

Housing

Taichung offers a range of accommodation options, from shared houses to three-bedroom houses. Rent for a room in a shared house averages around $6,000 TWD ($200 USD) per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can cost between $12,000 TWD ($400 USD) to $16,000 TWD ($530 USD) per month depending on location and amenities. A two-bedroom apartment ranges from $15,000 TWD ($500 USD) to $20,000 TWD ($670 USD), and a three-plus-bedroom house can vary from $25,000 TWD ($830 USD) to $40,000 TWD ($1,300 USD) per month.

Groceries

Grocery costs in Taichung vary depending on the store and location. A basic weekly grocery list for a family of four can cost around $2,000 TWD ($67 USD). Locally produced fruits and vegetables are commonly found in supermarkets and night markets, which can be cheaper than imported products.

Transportation

The public transportation system in Taichung consists of buses, MRT (Metro Rapid Transit), and high-speed rail. A one-way bus ticket costs around $15 TWD ($0.50 USD), while a one-day MRT pass costs around $150 TWD ($5 USD). Bicycles can be rented through various rental services at around $80 TWD ($2.80 USD) per day.

With a mild subtropical climate, Taichung enjoys four distinct seasons, which means expats can experience the beauty of cherry blossom season in spring, summer heat, autumn foliage, and winter abundance of fruits and vegetables. The average annual temperature in Taichung is around 22°C, with summer temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. Winter temperatures are cooler, around 13°C to 21°C.

Taichung's economy is centered around various industries, with a growing number of foreign businesses setting up operations in the city. Key industries in Taichung include electronics manufacturing, food processing, and renewable energy. Some of the foreign companies with operations in Taichung include IBM, Dell, and Intel.

Taichung has a well-developed healthcare system, with a number of public and private hospitals and clinics. The National Taiwan University Hospital in Taichung is ranked as one of the top medical institutions in Taiwan, providing a range of specialized services. Many foreigners choose to take out private health insurance to supplement their public health coverage.

Taichung has an efficient public transportation system, consisting of MRT (Metro Rapid Transit), buses, and high-speed rail. The MRT system currently has three lines, with plans for expansion, making it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas. Bicycle rentals are also popular in Taichung, as the city has a well-developed network of cycle routes.

Taichung is generally a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, like any city, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid theft or other mishaps. Expats should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas, such as night markets, and should carry a copy of their passport and national health insurance card with them at all times.