Taiwan remains one of the safest destinations for Belgian travellers, according to the latest update from the Belgian Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, as retrieved on 1 May 2026. The island, known for its minimal street crime, offers a secure environment for tourists, though the FPS advises maintaining normal vigilance, as one would in any major city.
The country’s public transport system is a standout feature for visitors. The MRT in Taipei, as well as the extensive network of trains and buses across the island, are praised for their reliability, safety, and affordability.
For those preferring taxis, services are both inexpensive and plentiful, though travellers are advised to present addresses in Chinese characters or use taxi apps to avoid language barriers.
Belgian drivers can use their international driving permit for up to 30 days in Taiwan, with the possibility of extending it to three months. For long-term residents, obtaining a Taiwanese driving licence is possible, but requires a translated and legalised Belgian licence, a process that must be completed before departure via the Taipei Representative Office in Brussels.
Navigating natural risks
Taiwan’s geographical location exposes it to natural risks, particularly earthquakes and typhoons. Earthquakes, especially along the east coast, can exceed 5.0 on the Richter scale, with a devastating 7.6-magnitude quake in 1999 claiming 2,400 lives. However, Taiwan has since significantly strengthened its disaster preparedness, and recent high-magnitude earthquakes have caused far less damage.
Typhoons, which typically occur between July and October, can disrupt travel plans, leading to closures of schools and public services. The authorities issue mobile alerts in affected areas, and apps like the National Fire Agency’s official platform help locate shelters and provide real-time updates.
Cultural and legal considerations
Belgian travellers should be aware of Taiwan’s strict laws. Drug possession or use is severely punished, and bringing in meat products, fruit, or plants is prohibited. Photography of military installations or airports is also forbidden.
Taiwanese culture values politeness and punctuality, and visitors are expected to reciprocate, removing shoes when entering someone’s home is a common custom.
Prostitution is illegal, and while Taiwan is generally tolerant, public behaviour should align with local norms.
Practicalities for Belgian visitors
Belgian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 90 days, provided their passport is valid for at least six months upon arrival. All travellers must complete the Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) online within three days of their arrival.
Cash remains king in many parts of Taiwan, especially in smaller establishments, though credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and supermarkets. ATMs are widely available, but not all accept foreign cards. Travellers are advised to carry sufficient cash or use local payment apps. Belgian SIM cards work in Taiwan, and free Wi-Fi is ubiquitous. Alternatively, affordable local SIM cards or eSIMs can be purchased at the airport.
In case of emergencies, Belgians can contact the Belgian Office in Taipei at +886 (0)2 2715 1215 or +886 (0)936 707 791. However, those holding dual Belgian-Taiwanese nationality should note that Belgian consular assistance is not available to them while in Taiwan.
Belgium-Taiwan relations: a pragmatic partnership
Belgium and Taiwan maintain robust unofficial relations, underpinned by mutual representative offices in Brussels and Taipei. Since 1971, Belgium has adhered to a pragmatic ‘One-China‘ policy, acknowledging Beijing’s claim to Taiwan without formally endorsing it.
This approach has allowed for deepening ties, facilitated by parliamentary exchanges and alumni networks connecting the two societies.
Economically, Belgium is Taiwan’s fifth-largest trading partner in the European Union, after Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, and France. The two countries also participate in a Working Holiday Program, allowing 200 young Belgians and Taiwanese aged 18–30 to work, travel, and study in each other’s countries for up to a year.
Politically, Belgium has shown growing support for Taiwan. In 2020, the Belgian Chamber of Representatives passed a resolution in support of the island, followed by similar moves in the Flemish and Walloon parliaments. In 2025, the Belgian Chamber criticised the People’s Republic of China’s conduct in the Taiwan Strait and reaffirmed its support for Taiwan amid rising regional tensions.
Expert perspective: China’s stance on Taiwan
Professor Sven Biscop, a political scientist specialising in defence and a confidant to Belgian policymakers, recently shared his insights on the situation in an interview in De Morgen on 1 May. He confirmed that his family has personal ties to Taiwan, his husband being Taiwanese, with plans to visit during the Christmas holiday.
Addressing concerns about a potential military invasion by China, similar to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Biscop explained that while China’s long-term goal remains the incorporation of Taiwan, its approach is pragmatic. He noted that Taiwanese citizens enjoy free movement and robust economic ties with the mainland, framing the issue as a domestic matter for China.
Contrary to the assumptions of many analysts, Biscop suggested that China has not yet made a definitive decision to use military force against Taiwan. However, he emphasised that the ultimate objective of reunification remains unchanged. China possesses the military capability to act, but its preference appears to be for a gradual transition, subtly influencing public opinion in Taiwan rather than resorting to outright conflict.
Travel logistics from Belgium
Travelling from Belgium to Taiwan typically involves a flight, with the cheapest options costing around €450–700 and taking approximately 18 hours, including transfers. Taiwanese nationals enjoy visa-free access to Belgium for short stays, and since 2021, Taiwanese travellers have been included in Belgium’s ‘Green’ epidemiological category, meaning no vaccination proof, quarantine, or PCR tests are required for entry.
A land of contrasts and opportunities
Taiwan offers Belgian travellers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene landscapes of Alishan and Sun Moon Lake, the island caters to diverse interests. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a vibrant democracy and strong economic ties with Belgium, makes it an increasingly popular destination for both tourism and business.
As Belgium and Taiwan continue to strengthen their unofficial but substantive relationship, the island remains a welcoming and safe destination for Belgian adventurers, provided they respect local laws and customs.
Let’s go in 2026?
Taiwan is on my personal radar for later this year, but I don’t dare to book. Firstly because my employer must approve (or not) my vacation request. I will know more in a few months.
Secondly I’m keeping an eye on world events. Will there be affordable flights? Will activities – fuel! – in Taiwan be compromised? How is the Strait of Hormuz crisis evolving?
I visited Taiwan for the first time in 2017. It was there Danny suggested we’d start a travel blog, which became Trip By Trip. Actually, we decided on the name and the platform, WordPress, there.
But I didn’t really blog about Taiwan then.
