Taiwan’s healthcare system is one of the best in Asia—accessible, affordable, and efficient. As an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), knowing how to use Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) can make a big difference when it comes to your health and peace of mind.
What’s Covered?
Once enrolled in the NHI system, you gain access to a broad range of healthcare services:
- Outpatient and Referral Services
Consultations with general practitioners and specialists. You can visit clinics or hospitals depending on your needs.
- Emergency Care
NHI covers treatment for urgent health issues requiring immediate attention.
- Hospitalization
Includes surgeries, inpatient treatments, diagnostic tests, and medical supplies required during admission.
- Home and Hospice Care
Support for patients needing long-term or end-of-life care at home.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM services are covered if performed at NHI-accredited facilities.
- Catastrophic Illnesses
Patients with approved catastrophic illness certificates are exempt from co-payments for treatment related to their illness.
- Occupational Injuries and Diseases
Coverage includes diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and follow-up care for work-related health conditions.
How to Use NHI as an OFW
Enrollment
Your employer is responsible for enrolling you once you start work in Taiwan. If you are self-employed or between jobs, you must apply on your own within four months of receiving your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC).
Health Insurance IC Card
You’ll receive an NHI IC Card after enrollment. Present this card at clinics, hospitals, or pharmacies to access benefits. Always bring your ARC as a secondary ID.
Co-payments
Some services require a small out-of-pocket payment. For example:
- Outpatient clinic: NT$150–NT$360
- Emergency care: NT$450–NT$550
- Inpatient care: 5%–30% of the medical bill depending on the hospital level and length of stay
Overseas Medical Claims
You can apply for reimbursement if:
- You received emergency treatment outside Taiwan
- You were temporarily abroad and had no access to Taiwan’s medical system
You must file the claim within six months of treatment. Refund amounts are limited to what similar treatment would cost under NHI.
How to File a Medical Claim
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Application form
- Original medical receipts and itemized expenses
- Doctor’s diagnosis
- Proof of insurance (e.g., NHI card)
- ARC/passport copy
- Bank details (for reimbursement)
- Submit Your Claim:
- In person at your NHIA regional division
- By mail
- Through employer assistance (if applicable)
- For Overseas Claims:
- Submit to the NHIA branch where you’re enrolled
- Include translated documents if they’re not in English or Chinese
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if I’m already enrolled in the NHI?
If you’re legally employed and hold an ARC, your employer should automatically enroll you. You’ll receive an NHI IC card, usually within a month of starting work. If you haven’t received it, ask your HR department or contact the NHIA directly.
- What happens if I lose my NHI card?
You can request a replacement at your nearest NHIA office. Bring your ARC and a valid ID. A small processing fee may apply. Avoid using healthcare services without your card, as you may have to pay full price and seek reimbursement later.
- Does NHI cover check-ups or vaccines?
Routine physical exams are not covered unless they’re part of disease management or specific programs. Some vaccines, like flu shots for seniors or high-risk groups, are covered—others may be out-of-pocket.
- Can I add dependents to my NHI plan?
No, NHI coverage is individual. Dependents (like spouses or children) need to apply separately through their own status (e.g., student, resident, or dependent visa holders).
Video: Today, I Received My National Health Insurance In Taiwan | Thank You, Lord!
A foreign teacher in Taiwan celebrates a big achievement—the arrival of his National Health Insurance card.
With a sense of gratitude, he shares his joy with his community, calling them “golden jobbers.”
The insurance marks an important step in his journey, bringing security and access to healthcare.
He invites viewers to learn more about the process, offering insights based on his experience.
Through this moment, he reflects on the value of stability and the road ahead.
Final Thoughts
Staying healthy while working abroad isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about feeling secure and supported even when challenges arise. Taiwan’s NHI system gives OFWs like us access to world-class healthcare without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a routine check-up, emergency treatment, or managing a chronic condition, your NHI card is your key to care.
Don’t wait until you’re sick to learn how the system works. Understand your rights, ask questions, and keep your documents in order. It’s one of the most practical ways to take care of yourself—and your future.