Open a Bank Account in Taiwan
Required Documents
You will need your passport, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), and student ID card to open a bank account.
Note that you won’t be able to open a bank account until you receive your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). If you haven’t reached the age of 20, the Post Office is more suitable for you, since they only require your student ID card, passport, ARC and personal seal.
Minimum Amounts for Opening a Bank Account
The common minimum amount required to open a bank account is NT$1,000, though some banks require NT$10,000 or more.
Tax Withheld on Interest Income
Those who reside in Taiwan for less than 183 days will have a 20% withholding tax from interest income. Those residing in Taiwan 183 days or more will have 10% withheld.
It’s highly recommended you open an account at an international bank, such as CTBC Bank, Mega International Commercial Bank, etc.
The Nearest Financial Institutions to the Main Campus
- CTBC Bank
376 Zhongshan Road, Hualien (03) 834-0566
- Post Office
52 Fu-Guo Road, Hualien (03) 857-7820
- Mega International Commercial Bank
26 Gong-Yuan Road, Hualien (03) 835-0191
- Taiwan Cooperative Bank
371 Zhongshan Road, Hualien (03) 835-0151
It’s highly recommended you open an account at an international bank, such as CTBC Bank, Mega International Commercial Bank, etc.
Currency Exchange
Most banks exchange foreign currencies at reasonable rates.
Have an ATM Card
Upon request, you will be given an ATM card. If offered, ask for a “Cirrus” or “Plus” card so you will be able to withdraw money from ATMs outside of Taiwan, too.
Applying for a Credit Card in Taiwan
If you have a Taiwanese friend who will co-sign for you, your chances of getting a credit card will significantly improve. If you have high monthly income, you will most certainly be offered a credit card and, as in the US or Canada, your personal financial situation matters. Typically, proving you have a regular and decent monthly income, proven by transfers to your bank account, is enough to get your first credit card. Don’t be surprised, though, if the ceiling is quite low and the interest rate is high.
