All you need to know about
health insurance in Taiwan

All our articles

Mutuelle Taïwan: understanding the healthcare system for expatriates

Living in Taiwan as a French expatriate means understanding the local healthcare system and choosing the right mutual insurance. While the quality of care is excellent, there are certain limitations that can affect foreigners. To avoid unforeseen medical expenses and benefit from optimum coverage, it’s essential to select the right international health insurance before you leave.

Taiwan’s healthcare system: National Health Insurance (NHI)

In 1995, Taiwan introduced National Health Insurance (NHI), a compulsory universal health insurance system. All residents, including expatriates holding an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), must join. The program covers a wide range of care, from medical consultations to hospitalization and emergencies. It also covers preventive care and traditional Chinese medicine.

As soon as they obtain their ARC, expatriates must register with the NHI. Contributions are calculated on the basis of income, making the system accessible to all. To consult a doctor, simply present your NHI card and pay a fee that varies according to your income.

NHI limits for expatriates

Although the NHI is an excellent public health scheme, it does have certain limitations for expatriates:

• Language barrier: In major cities such as Taipei, Hsinchu or Kaohsiung, many doctors speak English. However, in rural areas, communication can be more complicated.
• Partial coverage: Some treatments or specific care are not fully covered, which can lead to additional costs.

Why take out international health insurance?

Many expatriates opt for international health insurance to supplement their NHI coverage and avoid any unpleasant surprises. This type of contract offers several advantages:

• More comprehensive coverage: unlike the NHI, private insurance can include routine care, hospitalization, dental and optical care, as well as maternity. It also covers stays abroad, including in your home country.
• Easier access to private care: With international insurance, you can benefit from care in private facilities, where waiting times are often shorter and staff generally speak English.
• Flexibility: You’re free to choose your healthcare providers, whether in Taiwan or elsewhere.

Insurance options for expatriates in Taiwan?

Depending on your needs, there are a number of options available to complement your healthcare coverage:

• First-euro insurance: This type of contract covers your medical expenses directly, without going through a social security organization. It guarantees immediate coverage and simplifies reimbursement management.
• CFE complementary insurance: For French expatriates, the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) offers cover similar to that provided by the French Social Security system. It is often advisable to combine it with an international health insurance policy for broader coverage.

Our advice on choosing the right mutual insurance

• Evaluate your needs: Take into account your age, your state of health and the care you may need.
• Compare offers: Carefully analyze the different insurance plans in terms of coverage, exclusions, reimbursement ceilings and deductibles.
• Consider CFE: If you’re French, joining CFE can be a good way of maintaining a link with the French healthcare system and facilitating your reintegration on your return.
• Check for additional services: Some insurances include services such as teleconsultation in French or access to a network of partner healthcare professionals.

Health insurance, a must for expatriates in Taiwan

Taiwan’s healthcare system is renowned for its quality, but as an expatriate, it’s essential to have the right health insurance to avoid unexpected expenses. Take the time to analyze your needs and compare different offers, so you can choose the coverage that will give you peace of mind and security in your daily life.