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Health Examination for International Students

All newly enrolled students in Taiwan are required to undergo a health examination arranged by their respective universities. However, if you are planning to apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), you must complete a health checkup independently at a government-approved hospital.

The health examination for ARC typically includes the following:

Chest X-ray

To screen for tuberculosis

Stool Test for Parasites

May be waived for students from specific regions

Blood Test for Syphilis

May be waived for students from specific regions

Proof of Immunity or Vaccination Certificate

For measles and rubella

Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy) Check

Not required for students from certain countries

For detailed guidelines and required forms, refer to the official Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website. The CDC also provides a list of approved hospitals where you can undergo these tests.

Medical Services in Taiwan

Taiwan has a well-structured healthcare system, with over 12,000 medical institutions offering comprehensive services. These facilities are classified into four levels based on the services they provide:

  • Clinics - Over 11,500 across the country
  • District Hospitals - 379 facilities
  • Regional Hospitals - 77 facilities
  • Medical Centers - 25 top-tier centers

If you are feeling unwell or suffer an injury, it’s  recommended to visit the nearest clinic for primary care. You may access medical treatment at most facilities using your National Health Insurance (NHI) card, or through your private insurance plan if you are not yet enrolled in the NHI.

To locate nearby clinics or hospitals, you can visit the National Health Insurance Administration website (available in Chinese).

Pharmacies and Medicines

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications-such as pain relievers, cold remedies, allergy pills, and digestive aids-are readily available at local drugstores. However, prescription medications require a valid prescription from a doctor and can only be dispensed by licensed pharmacies.

To find a nearby pharmacy, you can use the Taiwan Pharmacist Association website (in Chinese only).

Health Insurance Options for International Students

International students in Taiwan have access to two types of medical insurance, depending on the length of their stay and visa status:

  • National Health Insurance (NHI) - Available for students who hold an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and have resided in Taiwan for more than six months.
  • Private Medical Insurance - For those without an ARC or staying in Taiwan for less than six months.

Students are only required to enroll in one of the above insurance plans.

National Health Insurance (NHI)

Students who stay in Taiwan for over six months and possess a valid ARC are eligible to join Taiwan’s National Health Insurance program.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • You must have a Resident Visa, possess an ARC, and stay in Taiwan continuously for 6 months
  • Or
  • You have a Resident Visa and ARC, and you leave Taiwan only once for fewer than 30 days within that period; your total time in Taiwan after subtracting the days away must still equal six months.

Cost:

The NHI premium is included in the semester tuition fee and currently amounts to NT$749 per month (as set by NHI).

This totals to NT$4,494 per semester (September–February / March–August).
Note: Fees may be subject to revision.

Required Documents for Application:

  • One recent 2 x 2 inch photograph
  • Photocopy of the front and back of your ARC
  • Completed NHI application form

Private Medical Insurance (First 6 Months)

Since eligibility for NHI begins only after six months of residency, universities help newly arrived students secure private medical insurance to ensure they are covered from day one.

Students usually apply for this during registration week, and coverage begins once tuition fees are settled. Please consult your university’s International Office for assistance.

Cost:

The private insurance costs approximately NT$4,000 per semester.
Note: Prices may vary and are subject to change.

Claim Process:

Under this insurance, you pay for treatment upfront and then apply for reimbursement. Make sure to retain all receipts and medical diagnoses for the claim.

Required Documents for Reimbursement:

  • Photocopy of your Post Office or Bankbook cover page (for direct deposit of the refund)
  • Reimbursement claim form
  • Photocopy of your passport
  • Photocopy of your ARC

Further Assistance

For more information about the National Health Insurance system:

  • ● Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM