Comprehensive Guides and Information Portals

Expat.com: This platform offers a broad spectrum of resources specifically tailored to expats in Taiwan. From discussions about visas and permits to insights on local customs, Expat.com covers a wide range of topics. The forum section allows expats to connect and share personal experiences, which can be incredibly helpful for newcomers.

Internations: Known for its well-organized events and networking opportunities, Internations also features informative guides about living and working in Taiwan. The site focuses on connecting expats and organizing activities that help build friendships and professional connections in the new country.

Taiwan Government’s English Portal: This official resource provides up-to-date and reliable information directly from the Taiwanese government. It’s an essential tool for understanding legal requirements, including visa applications, employment laws, and taxation.

Job Search Platforms for Expats

104 Human Bank: While primarily in Mandarin, 104 Human Bank is one of Taiwan’s largest job portals and offers some resources in English. It’s an excellent place for expats who are job hunting, especially those who are proficient in Mandarin.

Contact Taiwan: This is a government-backed initiative that connects overseas professionals with job opportunities in Taiwan. The platform is especially useful for expats looking to work in industries such as technology, engineering, and business management.

Jobs in Taipei: As the name suggests, this site focuses on job listings in Taiwan’s capital. It is particularly useful for English-speaking expats as most of the job opportunities posted here require proficiency in English.

Language Learning Resources

FluentU: Learning Mandarin can significantly enhance an expat’s experience in Taiwan. FluentU uses real-world videos like news, music videos, and movie trailers to teach the language, making learning engaging and practical.

ChineseClass101: This website offers comprehensive audio and video lessons for learners at different levels. It’s a great resource for expats who prefer structured lessons that they can follow at their own pace.

TOCFL: The Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL) is Taiwan’s official Mandarin proficiency test. The TOCFL website provides study materials and practice tests, which are invaluable for expats looking to certify their Mandarin skills.

Accommodation and Real Estate Platforms

591 Rent: 591 Rent is the leading online platform for finding apartments and houses in Taiwan. The site is in Mandarin but navigating with translation tools is relatively straightforward. It offers extensive listings with photos and detailed descriptions.

Tealit: Although more rudimentary in design, Tealit is hugely popular among expats for its English-language listings of apartments, shared accommodations, and even homestays. It also features classifieds for second-hand goods and language exchange opportunities.

Expatriates.com: This global platform has a specific section for Taiwan, where expats can find or advertise housing. It’s also a great place to find pre-loved furniture or vehicles, which can be useful for newly arrived expats setting up their homes.

Healthcare Information Resources

Ministry of Health and Welfare: The official website of Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare provides comprehensive information on health policies, insurance, and public health advisories. This is crucial for expats to understand healthcare rights and services available to them.

Taiwan Health Insurance Blog: This blog offers detailed explanations and guidance on navigating Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system. The blog is particularly useful for expats who need help with understanding how to make the most out of Taiwan’s healthcare system.

Forumosa: A forum primarily for expats in Taiwan, Forumosa has a dedicated section for health and fitness where expats share their experiences with different healthcare providers, tips on staying healthy in Taiwan, and advice on dealing with medical emergencies.

Community and Social Groups

Meetup: The Meetup website facilitates group gatherings for various interests and activities. In Taiwan, there are many Meetup groups aimed at expats, ranging from hiking clubs and book groups to professional networking events.

Facebook Groups: Numerous Facebook groups cater to expats in Taiwan. Groups like “Expats in Taiwan,” “Taipei Expats,” and “Kaohsiung Expats” offer platforms for expats to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others in similar situations.

Taiwan Expat Events: This website is dedicated to listing events all over Taiwan that might be of interest to the expat community. This includes cultural festivals, networking events, and expat meetups, making it easier for expats to get involved in their new community.

By leveraging these online resources, expats in Taiwan can navigate their new environment more effectively, from securing a job and finding a home to understanding local laws and connecting with the community.