Traveling to Taiwan and need connectivity? Get a FarEasTone SIM card or eSIM for fast data speeds and excellent coverage. FarEasTone is the second largest mobile operator in Taiwan with over 10 million subscribers. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a FarEasTone SIM or eSIM as a tourist.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about FarEasTone
Founded in 1997, Taiwan Far EasTone Telecommunications (FarEasTone) has grown to become one of Taiwan’s leading telecommunications providers.
FarEasTone offers a range of services to connect Taiwan, including their speedy 4G LTE mobile network, the latest 5G technology, reliable fixed broadband, and enjoyable IPTV. Over 10 million customers enjoy FarEasTone’s services as of mid-2022.
The company’s 4G network covers nearly all of Taiwan’s population. They are also expanding their 5G network, having installed over 5000 base stations already.
In addition to phone service, FarEasTone provides internet access, live TV, and solutions for businesses. Customers can visit one of FarEasTone’s many stores or speak to a sales agent – there are over 300 stores and 8000 agents island-wide.
II. Taiwan FarEasTone Coverage and Speed
1. FarEasTone Coverage
FarEasTone has excellent population coverage across Taiwan:
- 4G/LTE – 99% population coverage
- 5G – Live in all major cities including Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung. Over 5000 5G base stations.
4G speeds and coverage are excellent throughout Taiwan with FarEasTone. 5G is currently concentrated in dense urban areas and will expand coverage rapidly in coming years.
2. FarEasTone Speed
In OpenSignal’s May 2022 Taiwan report, FarEasTone had the following average download speeds:
- 4G Speed – 33.6 Mbps
- 5G Speed – 187.4 Mbps
FarEasTone has fast, reliable 4G/LTE speeds up to 300 Mbps in many areas. 5G speeds can reach up to 1 Gbps in optimal conditions. You’ll enjoy low latency and quick downloads on social, video, and music apps.
III. Best FarEasTone SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Here are the best FarEasTone SIM card options for most travelers:
| Plan | Price ($US) | Data Allowance | Validity Period | Notes |
| Prepaid Data SIM | ~$7 | 1 GB | 30 days | Unlimited 4G data for the first 1 GB, then slowed down |
| ~$10 | 3 GB | Unlimited 4G data for the first 3 GB, then slowed down | ||
| ~$16 | 5 GB | Unlimited 4G data for the first 5 GB, then slowed down | ||
| ~$20 | 10 GB | Unlimited 4G data for the first 10 GB, then slowed down |
IV. Does FarEasTone Support eSIM?
Yes, FarEasTone launched eSIM support in September 2022.
FarEasTone eSIM works on iPhone XS/XR and newer models. Select Android phones with eSIM are also supported.
You can use a FarEasTone eSIM exactly the same as a physical SIM card. Sign up for a monthly plan or get a prepaid Visitor eSIM.
V. Where To Buy a FarEasTone SIM Card and eSIM
1. Where to Buy FarEasTone SIM for Taiwan
You can easily purchase a FarEasTone SIM at the following locations:
- Taipei Taoyuan Airport – SIM pickup counters in Arrivals hall
- FarEasTone Stores – 300+ official stores across Taiwan
- Convenience Stores – 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart
- Electronics Stores – Studio A, Soft World, ZuZu Store
When purchasing, you’ll need to show your passport. SIM cards cost a standard NT$690 with prepaid credit included.
Topping up your SIM is easy at convenience stores, FarEasTone stores, and online.
2. Where to Buy FarEasTone eSIM
To get a FarEasTone eSIM, you’ll first need to register online with your passport details.
After registering, you can choose and activate your eSIM plan directly from your phone. Pick up is available at Taipei Airport eSIM counters as well.
Steps to get FarEasTone eSIM:
- Register Online – Provide passport details at FarEasTone eSIM site
- Verify Identity – Verify ID at airport counter or FarEasTone store
- Activate eSIM – Choose your plan and activate eSIM from phone
Are you traveling to Taiwan soon? Don’t miss out on important communications or getting directions on the go. Click here to learn about: Taiwan Mobile Operators Which One is the Best?
VI. How to Activate a FarEasTone SIM Card/eSIM
Activating your new FarEasTone SIM or eSIM is quick and easy.
1. How to Use FarEasTone SIM Card
Follow these simple steps when you insert your new FarEasTone SIM:
- Insert SIM and turn on phone
- Select “English” language
- Go to Settings > Network operators
- Select FarEasTone network
- Enable mobile data
- You’re now connected!
Once inserted, the SIM will automatically configure your network settings. Remember to enable mobile data to start browsing.
Knowing about: Is your cell phone available with eSIM, visiting this article: Taiwan eSIM Compatible Devices List
2. How to Activate FarEasTone eSIM
To activate your FarEasTone eSIM:
- Register and verify your ID online
- On your phone, go to Settings > Add Cellular Plan
- Select FarEasTone and follow activation steps
- Choose your eSIM plan
- Accept terms and activate
- Connected!
Activation takes just a few minutes. You’ll then be ready to use your eSIM plan.
Read More: How to Install Taiwan eSIM: Full Guide
VII. Taiwan FarEasTone Call & SMS Rates
FarEasTone has reasonable rates for calls and texts when using their Visitor SIM:
- Local Calls – NT$3 per minute
- Domestic SMS – NT$1 per message
- Incoming Calls – Free
- Outgoing International Calls – From NT$3 per minute
Your SIM and eSIM come with an initial allowance for calls and texts. After you use that up, these are the standard rates.
Receiving calls and texts is always free on FarEasTone. Outgoing international calls start from NT$3 per minute depending on destination.
VIII. Useful USSD Codes for FarEasTone SIM Card/eSIM
USSD codes let you check your SIM card balance and info quickly. Just dial these codes on your FarEasTone SIM:
- 123# – Check main balance
- 124# – Check data balance
- 126# – Check billing details
- 133# – Check bonus balance
- 135# – Check rate plans
You can also text these codes to 1270 get balance info sent to you instantly.
IX. How to Top-up FarEasTone SIM Card/eSIM
When your prepaid credit runs low, you’ll need to top-up your FarEasTone SIM. There are a few easy ways to add more funds:
- Convenience Stores – Top-up voucher at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, etc.
- FarEasTone Stores – Top-up in-person at official stores
- Online Top-Up – Add funds on FarEasTone website
- ATMs – Some ATMs support SIM top-ups as well
Top-up amounts range from NT$100 to NT$2000. Your new balance is applied instantly after paying.
To check your balance, dial 123# or text to 1270 anytime.
X. Alternatives to FarEasTone in Taiwan
The two other major mobile networks in Taiwan are:
- Chunghwa Telecom – Largest telco and mobile carrier
- Taiwan Mobile – Third largest mobile operator
Both Chunghwa and Taiwan Mobile have excellent coverage and speeds across Taiwan. However, FarEasTone tends to have better rates and packages for short-term tourism use.
If on’t want to deal with swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant roaming fees, taiwanesim.com by GIGAGO is the perfect solution.
With eSIMs, you can access a Taiwanese data plan directly from your smartphone without inserting a physical SIM card. As long as your device supports eSIM, getting connected in Taiwan is as simple as scanning a QR code.
Some key benefits of Taiwan eSIM include:
- Digital activation process – Once purchased, your eSIM profile is emailed instantly. Just scan the QR code and you’re connected without needing a store or SIM slot.
- Reliable network access – As a partner of major carrier Chunghwa Telecom, you get high-speed 4G/5G coverage whether in cities or rural areas.
- Flexible plans – Choose from options lasting 3 days to 1 month, with data allowances from 1GB up to a generous 20GB per day.
- 24/7 support – Customer assistance via live chat, email and WhatsApp helps with activation issues.
- Easy setup – Detailed guides make installing an eSIM smooth on any compatible device.
No hassles with physical SIMs or high roaming fees – Taiwan eSIM is a convenient digital solution for travelers.
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XI. FAQs about FarEasTone SIM Cards
Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM?
Yes, you need to show your passport at pickup. This is required by law to register each SIM card.
Can I get SIM card at Taipei Airport?
Yes, pickup counters are available in Arrivals hall at TPE Airport. There are also eSIM registration counters.
How long does the SIM card last?
The Visitor SIM is valid for 7 days. You can recharge it to extend the validity period.
Can I make international calls?
Yes, international calls are supported starting from NT$3 per minute. Rates vary by country.
Do I need to be in Taiwan to activate eSIM?
No, you can register online before arrival. But you do need to verify ID in Taiwan to complete eSIM activation.
XII. Final Words
A FarEasTone SIM card or eSIM provides fast, reliable connectivity across Taiwan. Their visitor packages offer an affordable way to stay connected during your trip.
Be sure to purchase your nano-SIM at Taipei Airport or major retailer on arrival. Top-up and activate as needed for unlimited local data and calls.
Enjoy seamless connectivity with FarEasTone’s high-speed 4G and 5G networks as you explore Taiwan!
