The first thing to do in Taiwan: Buy an electronic IC card instead of a SIM card.
Many foreign friends think of buying a SIM card first when they arrive in Taiwan. In reality, an electronic IC card is much more important and practical.
In Taiwan, the two most common electronic IC cards are:
👉 EasyCard
👉 iPASS
These two cards are deeply integrated into the daily lives of Taiwanese people and are essential tools for foreigners living, traveling, or staying short-term in Taiwan.
🚇 What Can You Do with EasyCard and iPASS?
With an electronic IC card, you can easily access most of Taiwan’s transportation and lifestyle services:
- 🚇 Take the MRT (Taipei, Taoyuan, Kaohsiung)
- 🚌 Take the bus
- 🚆 Take the train (certain sections)
- 🚲 Rent a YouBike public bicycle
- 🏪 Pay at convenience stores (7-11, FamilyMart)
- ☕ Pay at cafes, supermarkets, and for small purchases
- 👉 Just “beep” your card to complete a payment or enter a station.
You don’t need to carry coins or worry about language barriers.
💡 EasyCard vs. iPASS: Is there a difference?
Many Foreigners Ask: Which One Should I Choose?
👉 In terms of daily use, there is almost no difference.
The usage range for both EasyCard and iPASS is extremely wide throughout Taiwan.
Whether for transportation or consumption, both cards are interchangeable in most scenarios.
🛒 Where Can You Buy and Top Up Your Card?
You can easily purchase and add value at the following locations:
- 🏪 Convenience stores (7-11, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart)
- 🚇 Information desks or automatic vending machines at major MRT stations
- 👉 Adding value (topping up) is also very convenient and can be done at any time.
🌏 Why Are Electronic IC Cards So Important for Foreigners?
Whether you are a:
- Digital Nomad
- International Student
- Short-term resident
- Long-term expat living in Taiwan
👉 An electronic IC card can significantly simplify your life.
From transportation to daily purchases, almost everything can be handled with this card.
💬 It’s not just a card, but a memory of life in Taiwan
Many people choose to keep their EasyCard or iPASS when they leave Taiwan. It’s not because of its monetary value, but because—
👉 It records every single day of your life in Taiwan.
