Everything You Need to Know About Taiwan 2025

In the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan shines like a bright gem of East Asia – a place where majestic nature meets modern life and a colorful culture. For Vietnam, Taiwan is not only an attractive travel destination but also an important economic partner, home to hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese workers and students building their future.

Just a few hours’ flight away from Vietnam, Taiwan offers opportunities to explore, experience, and connect. From its unique citizenship policies and cultural identity, to exciting travel journeys and administrative procedures for living and working – all are included in the things you need to know about Taiwan. Join iVISA on a comprehensive journey to explore Taiwan through the 2025 travel guide below.

General Introduction to Taiwan

People and Culture of Taiwan

When asking “What nationality do Taiwanese people hold?”, many will be surprised that they carry the nationality of the Republic of China. This is a unique citizenship shaped by the island’s complex history.

Taiwan’s culture, however, is highly diverse: from Han traditions, indigenous heritage, to Western influences. So, if someone asks “What makes Taiwan special?”, the answer lies in its fascinating cultural blend and the friendliness of its people.

Symbols and Taiwan’s Position Today

Taiwan is also known for many national symbols. Beyond its flag – the “Blue Sky, White Sun, and a Wholly Red Earth” – Taiwan is symbolized by the plum blossom, which blooms in the harsh winter, and the Formosan black bear, a rare animal tied to conservation efforts.

After the “Taiwan Miracle” of the 1960s–1990s, the island has become a global technology powerhouse, home to the world’s leading company TSMC, and an important trade partner of Vietnam.

Citizenship and Legal Policies

Besides culture, economy, and social life, citizenship and legal policies are key things to know about Taiwan. These directly affect both locals and foreigners who wish to live and work long-term on the island.

Citizenship and Passport Value

Taiwanese citizens hold the nationality of the Republic of China, a status formed after the historic events of 1949. Although recognized by only a few countries, the Taiwanese passport is highly valued, granting visa-free entry to over 145 countries.

However, Taiwan currently does not offer visa exemption for Vietnamese citizens and requires a visa application. Therefore, if you wish to travel there, you must apply for a Taiwanese tourist visa.

Strict Citizenship Policies

Despite its strong passport, Taiwan enforces strict rules on nationality. One important thing to know about Taiwan is that dual citizenship is generally not recognized, except for rare cases.

Rare Exceptions for Dual Citizenship

Although the law is strict, there are a few exceptions. Children with at least one Taiwanese parent can hold dual citizenship until age 18. In addition, highly skilled professionals, special talents, or citizens of countries that do not allow renouncing nationality may be considered for special approval.

Taiwan’s Culture and Symbols

Culture and national symbols are among the most impressive aspects for visitors and foreigners exploring Taiwan. The blend of Han, indigenous, and Western elements has created a rich yet harmonious identity.

The National Flag as a Symbol of Pride

The flag “Blue Sky, White Sun, and a Wholly Red Earth” represents freedom, sacrifice, and progress. It is tied to Taiwan’s national spirit and pride.

The Formosan Black Bear as a Cultural Icon

The Formosan black bear, with its distinct white “V” mark on the chest, is Taiwan’s symbolic animal. It represents the strength and resilience of nature and is often featured in folklore and environmental campaigns.

Traditional Festivals

Taiwan is famous for its cultural life, where traditional festivals play a vital role in preserving heritage and connecting communities:

Lunar New Year (January–February): The most important holiday of the year, when families reunite, prepare festive meals, and exchange blessings.
Dragon Boat Festival (5th lunar month): Marked by exciting boat races and the tradition of eating sticky rice dumplings, honoring the poet Qu Yuan.
Pingxi Lantern Festival (1st lunar month): Thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, carrying wishes for peace and prosperity.

Each time of the year offers its own unique charm when traveling to this country. However, as mentioned above, Vietnamese citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to Taiwan. Therefore, you should make preparations in advance when planning your trip and ensure you meet the requirements to successfully obtain a Taiwanese tourist visa.

Taiwanese Cuisine

Food is a defining feature of Taiwan’s culture. While bubble tea has become a global brand, traditional dishes still play a big role in everyday life.

Beef noodle soup: A flavorful dish considered Taiwan’s national treasure.
Gua bao (pork belly bun): A soft bun filled with braised pork and herbs, a popular street food.
Scallion pancake: Crispy and fragrant, loved by all ages.
Stinky tofu: A famous “taste challenge” offering a unique experience at night markets.

Travel and Experiences in Taiwan

For those seeking a journey that combines modern life with deep Asian culture, Taiwan is the perfect choice. In just 5–7 days, visitors can experience the bustling city life, peaceful nature, and unique cuisine.

Top Destinations

Traveling to Taiwan offers visitors a rich journey, from the vibrant pace of modern city life to the majestic beauty of nature. Each region has its own unique highlights, painting a diverse picture of culture and landscapes.

Taipei: Known for Taipei 101 (508m tall), a symbol of economic growth and modern architecture. At night, Shilin Night Market turns into a food paradise full of Taiwanese specialties.
Taichung: Famous for Sun Moon Lake, reflecting stunning seasonal scenery. National parks with hot springs and snow-capped peaks in winter make it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
Kaohsiung: Renowned for Kenting’s pristine beaches and the dazzling Dome of Light at Formosa Boulevard MRT, often called the “cathedral of light.”

Transportation

THSR (High-Speed Rail): Just 1.5 hours from Taipei to Kaohsiung.
MRT: Modern metro system, fares from 20–60 TWD (about 15,000–45,000 VND).
Bus & YouBike: Budget-friendly and convenient, especially with EasyCard for multiple services.

Estimated Costs for a 5–7 Days Trip

Traveling in Taiwan is affordable if planned well. A 5–7 day trip usually costs around 10–15 million VND per person, depending on budget or premium travel style.

Category	Average Cost (VND)	Details
Round-trip flight	2,500,000 – 5,000,000	Book 2–3 months early for lower fares
3* hotel	800,000 – 1,200,000/night	Stay in city centers for easy MRT access
Food	300,000 – 500,000/day	Local restaurants, night markets
Transport	100,000 – 300,000/day	MRT, bus, YouBike
Entrance tickets	500,000 – 1,000,000	Taipei 101, Sun Moon Lake, museums
Extras	500,000 – 1,000,000	Souvenirs, coffee, onsen, shows

Travel Between Vietnam and Taiwan

With a distance of just over 2,000 km, flights between Vietnam and Taiwan take only 2.5–3.5 hours – making travel extremely convenient.

Geographic Location and Distance from Vietnam

Taiwan lies about 160 km off the southeast coast of China and just over 2,000 km away from Vietnam by air. So, if you wonder “How many hours from Vietnam to Taiwan?”, the answer is only around 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on the route.

For example, flying from Taiwan to Hanoi takes about 2 hours 40 minutes, while the Ho Chi Minh City – Taipei route takes 3–3.5 hours. This is one of the main reasons why many Vietnamese travelers choose Taiwan for short yet meaningful trips.

Airlines Operating Vietnam – Taiwan Routes

Hiện nay, tuyến bay Việt Nam – Đài Loan được xem là một trong những đường bay nhộn nhịp bậc nhất Đông Á. Người Việt có thể lựa chọn:

Vietnam Airlines
Vietjet Air
EVA Air
China Airlines

Popular Routes

Route	Duration	Airports
Hanoi – Taipei	2h40–3h05	Noi Bai (HAN) – Taoyuan (TPE)
HCMC – Taipei	3h00–3h30	Tan Son Nhat (SGN) – Taoyuan (TPE)
Hanoi – Kaohsiung	~3h20 (with stopover)	Noi Bai (HAN) – Kaohsiung (KHH)

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Taiwan

Are you excited to plan your trip to the “Jewel Island” of Taiwan but still have a few questions? Below are the most frequently asked questions along with detailed answers to help you get ready for this unforgettable journey.

Do Vietnamese need a visa to travel to Taiwan?

Yes. Vietnamese travelers must apply for a visa to enter Taiwan. The good news is the process is now convenient, either online or directly at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office. For faster and more accurate results, you can contact Taiwan tourist services iVISA to save time and increase approval chances.

When is the best time to visit Taiwan?

Each season has its charm, but spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are most popular. Spring brings cherry blossoms, turning Taiwan into a romantic paradise, while autumn dazzles with fiery maple leaves and fresh air – perfect for hiking or exploring historic towns.

Which foods should I try in Taiwan?

Taiwan is a food paradise. From world-famous bubble tea, savory beef noodles, crispy stinky tofu, to countless street snacks at Shilin and Raohe night markets – your journey won’t be complete without indulging in these local delights.

What souvenirs should I buy in Taiwan?

Taiwan is famous for thoughtful souvenirs and specialties: pineapple cakes, premium Alishan tea, chewy nougat, and handcrafted goods. These make meaningful gifts and lasting memories of your trip.

After exploring everything you need to know about Taiwan – from culture and cuisine, to costs and must-visit spots – you can already picture a colorful journey waiting ahead. Don’t just stop at reading – it’s time to pack your bags and discover Taiwan for yourself!

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