Visitors from China participating in group tours of Taiwan will be required to purchase emergency medical insurance beginning October.
The new requirement comes amid a rising number of Chinese tourists visiting Taiwan. Many Chinese visitors are older and come without insurance for medical emergencies. Chinese tourists requiring medical attention during visits to Taiwan have cost Taiwan’s healthcare system NT$5 million (US$160,000).
Under the new rule, Chinese visitors traveling with tour groups will have to purchase accident insurance covering more than NT$2 million (US$64,000). They will also be required to buy emergency medical insurance covering more than NT$500,000 (US$ 16,000).
Proof of insurance will be added to requirements for entry permits into Taiwan for Chinese residents.
The National Immigration Agency is discussing similar rules for independent travelers from China in the future.