Taiwan Tourist eSIM or SIM With Number – Which Should You Get for Your Trip?

If you’re travelling to Taiwan, one of the first things you’ll look up before flying is: “Should I buy an eSIM for Taiwan or get a SIM card with a number at the airport?“. Both options keep you connected, but each fits a different travel style. Let’s go through what you need to know before deciding.

Taiwan Tourist eSIM or SIM With Number — Which Should You Get for Your Trip?

I. Staying Connected in Taiwan — What Are Your Options?

    Before you land in Taiwan, you’ll need reliable mobile data for navigation, translation, transport, and communication.

    Most visitors have two main choices:

    • A physical tourist SIM card with a local number (bought at the airport or convenience stores)
    • A digital eSIM (activated before travel via QR code)

    Both provide mobile data, but differ in convenience, flexibility, and setup time.

    1.1. How the Tourist SIM Card Works

    At the airport, you’ll see booths from major telecoms like Chunghwa, FarEasTone, and Taiwan Mobile offering tourist SIMs.

    Process:

    1. Show your passport.
    2. Choose a plan (3–30 days).
    3. Staff insert and activate the SIM for you.

    Advantages

    • Comes with a Taiwanese phone number for calls/SMS.
    • Reliable 4G/5G network coverage.
    • On-site support in English.

    Disadvantages

    • queueing and waiting after arrival.
    • Counters may close late at night.
    • You must remove your home SIM and store it safely.

    A tourist SIM with number is a good fit if you’re staying in Taiwan longer or need to make local calls.

    1.2. How eSIM Works

    An eSIM is a virtual SIM already built into your phone — no physical card is needed. You buy a plan online, scan a QR code, and your phone activates the plan automatically when you land.

    Advantages

    • No waiting at counters.
    • Connect instantly after landing.
    • Keep your original number active for messages.
    • Zero waste and digital setup.

    Some eSIM providers also include a phone number, combining voice and data like a traditional SIM — useful for booking or delivery verifications.

    II. eSIM vs Tourist SIM With Number — Which Is Better for You?

      FeatureTourist SIM Card (with number)eSIM
      Setup Time15–30 mins after landing3–5 mins before departure
      Has Local NumberYesSome plans include
      ConvenienceRequires counter visit100% online
      Multi-country UseOnly TaiwanRegional coverage (optional)
      Device SupportAll phones with SIM slotPhones supporting eSIM
      Ideal UserLong-stay travellerShort-stay / frequent traveller

      ► Summary: If you want a call-capable local number, go with a tourist SIM. If your focus is fast, easy, and flexible internet the moment you land, an eSIM fits best.

      III. When and Where to Buy for the Best Experience

        Timing matters:

        • If your flight lands late or early morning → choose an eSIM.
        • If you want in-person help with setup → buy a SIM at the airport counter.
        • For full digital prep before you fly → order online.

        At this stage, most travellers have already compared both options and are simply looking for a safe, trusted provider.

        You can confidently purchase and activate an eSIM plan at Taiwan eSIM, offering flexible Taiwan travel eSIMs — with options for data-only or data + local number. Setup takes less than 5 minutes and works instantly upon landing.

        IV. Do You Need a Local Number in Taiwan?

          Local numbers are still useful in some cases, such as:

          • Verifying food delivery or ride-hailing apps.
          • Receiving OTP messages from local websites.
          • Making calls to hotels or hosts.

          However, if you use WhatsApp, Telegram, Line, or email to communicate, you might not need one.

          A data-only eSIM is often enough for most tourists.

          V. FAQs

            Does a tourist eSIM in Taiwan include a phone number? Some eSIMs provide a number, others are data-only. Check your provider’s plan details.

            Is the data speed the same for eSIM and SIM cards? Yes, both connect to the same Taiwanese 4G/5G networks.

            Can I activate an eSIM after arrival? Yes, if you have Wi-Fi. But activating before your flight is faster and smoother.

            Will WhatsApp work with a Taiwan eSIM? Yes. WhatsApp remains linked to your usual number regardless of SIM type.

            How long do Taiwan tourist SIM and eSIM plans last? Common durations are 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 30 days.