July 25, 2025
Why You Need an EasyCard in Taiwan
Why You Need a Taiwan EasyCard the Moment You Land
If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, there’s one item you’ll want in your pocket from the moment you arrive: the EasyCard. Whether you’re navigating the MRT, hopping on a bus, or grabbing a drink from a convenience store, this small, reloadable smart card is Taiwan’s ultimate all-in-one transportation and payment solution.
What is an EasyCard?
The EasyCard (悠遊卡, Yōuyóu kǎ) is a rechargeable contactless smart card used for public transportation and small-value payments throughout Taiwan. It’s widely recognized as one of the most convenient tools for getting around, especially in cities like Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Tainan.
With a single tap, you can access trains, buses, MRT systems, ferries, bike rentals, and even make purchases at convenience stores, parking lots, vending machines, and select retail shops—no coins, tickets, or apps needed.
Whether you’re staying a day or a month, this is the most efficient way to move around Taiwan.
Buy Before You Fly: EasyCard + SIM Bundle
Before you land in Taiwan, it’s smart to pre-order an EasyCard and SIM card combo through platforms like Klook or KKday. You can easily pick them up at Taoyuan International Airport, often right after you clear immigration. This means you’ll be fully connected and travel-ready within minutes of arrival.
For example:
- Taoyuan Airport MRT → Taipei Main Station: NT$150 (with EasyCard)
- MRT rides in Taipei: Average NT$30 per ride, with tourists typically riding 3–4 times daily
That means you might spend over NT$120/day on transit alone, making the EasyCard a budget-friendly and convenient choice.
Purchase EasyCard and SIM Card in Advance
Many travelers now pre-order EasyCard(with Deposit) + SIM Card(Unlimited data) bundles on sites like Klook, making airport arrival seamless. You can pick it up at counters in Taoyuan International Airport or Songshan Airport, usually right after immigration.
▲Klook exclusive version on sale in limited quantities: NT$200 Deposit (White), NT$400 Deposit (Orange)
EasyCard Taiwan: The Complete Guide
The Ultimate Guide for Travelers and Expats
If you’re heading to Taiwan, there’s one small item that will make your entire trip smoother, cheaper, and more convenient: the EasyCard. Whether you’re hopping on the MRT, catching a bus in Taichung, paying for groceries, or even taking a gondola ride up a mountain, the EasyCard is your all-in-one travel companion.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from where to get it, how to use it, and why it’s way more than just a transit card.
How Much is an EasyCard in Taiwan?
- Card Price: NT$100 (non-refundable), excluding deposit and balance.
- Initial Top-Up Required: Minimum NT$100
- To use the EasyCard, you need to recharge a certain amount of money on the EasyCard before you can use it.
Some special edition cards may cost more but are popular souvenirs. You can also purchase limited edition EasyCards for NT$150–300, which double as great souvenirs.
How to Use EasyCard?
It’s easy—just tap the card on the sensor at:
- MRT gates (tap in/out)
- Bus card readers (tap once when entering or exiting, depending on the bus line)
- Retail counters or vending machines
- Bike rental stations or museum entrances
No PIN, no signature—just tap and go.
To use EasyCard, you just need to touch the card reader when get on and off a bus, MRT or train gate. It will also show you the remaining balance on your card.
Where to Buy an EasyCard in Taiwan
EasyCard can be reloaded and can be used for MRT, trains, buses, and convenience stores. Once you purchase an EasyCard and keep a sufficient balance, it will be easier and more convenient for you to travel wherever you go in Taiwan.
Buy in person at:
- MRT station service counters
- Ticket vending machines (some sell adult EasyCards)
- 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, OK Mart, and Hi-Life stores
- Airport MRT stations (e.g., EZFly counter at Taoyuan)
Buy online:
- Klook – Buy it Now
- Airport pickup and bundle deals available (SIM + EasyCard + transport pass)
Where to Use EasyCard in Taiwan
The EasyCard is a contactless smart card used for electronic fare payment. Originally launched in Taipei for public transport, it’s now widely accepted throughout Taiwan in:
► Public Transport:
- Metro (MRT) systems: Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung and Kaohsiung
- Light Rail(LRT): New Taipei and Kaohsiung
- City and intercity buses: All city and intercity buses in Taiwan
- TRA trains: local and commuter trains. Since you are using an EasyCard and do not have a reservation, you are not guaranteed a seat. If you are travelling by express train, you will need to buy a separate ticket for that.
- Ferry: Short-distance ferry, such as Tamsui, Tamsui to Fisherman’s Wharf or Kaohsiung to Cijin Island
- Taxi: Only some taxis have scanners that accept EasyCard
- YouBike Rentals: Using an EasyCard, you will need a local phone number to register for an account. Foreigners can still rent YouBikes using foreign credit cards.
Note: EasyCard does not work on the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR). For that, you’ll need separate tickets.
► Retail & Services:
- Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart
- Supermarket: Carrefour, PX Mart, SimpleMart…etc.
- Foods and Drinks: Starbucks, MOS Burger, McDonald’s …etc.
- Government Management Agencies: Maokong, Taipei Zoo…etc.
- Vending machines, parking lots, and some tourist attractions
It’s truly a nationwide system accepted in most cities.
EasyCard for Children, Students, and Seniors
Children: Fare Rules & Seating Policies
If you’re traveling with children in Taiwan, it’s helpful to understand how fare systems and seating rules apply:
- Children under age 6 (or under 115cm tall) can ride free of charge on most public transportation.
- If your child is under 6 but taller than 115cm, station staff may ask to verify their age with a valid ID or passport.
- No seat is assigned for children on transport that uses seat reservations (e.g., long-distance buses or trains).
On MRTs, city buses, and local trains (which don’t have reserved seating), children may sit in a regular seat, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Student EasyCard (for Local and Registered Students)
Taiwan offers a special Student EasyCard, which provides fare discounts on MRT, buses, and other public services. However, strict eligibility rules apply:
- Only students recognized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education can apply.
- You must have a valid Taiwan-issued student ID card.
- Visit an MRT station ticket booth to purchase—staff will verify your ID.
Note for international students:
Students studying abroad but visiting Taiwan (e.g., on exchange, summer programs) typically cannot buy the Student EasyCard. However, you can try showing your foreign student ID at the MRT counter—approval is at the staff’s discretion.
Concessionaire EasyCard (for Seniors and Kids Under 12)
Taiwan also offers the Concessionaire EasyCard, which provides discounted fares for:
- Children under 12 years old
- Seniors aged 65 and older
To apply:
- Bring a valid ID (such as a passport or ARC for foreign residents)
- Visit an MRT station ticket booth that offer card services
Note: Foreign tourists are typically not eligible unless they meet residency or identification criteria
How to Check EasyCard Balance?
- When you enter or leave a bus, MRT or train gate, tap your card on an gate—balance shows on the screen
- Use an EasyCard vending machine
- Walk into any 7-11 or FamilyMart and have the cashier scan and check your balance.
How to Top Up EasyCard?
EasyCard recharges are in cash only.
No matter where you top up your EasyCard, most the minimum stored value for EasyCard is NT$100 or its multiples. EasyCard can be reloaded and can be used for MRT, trains, buses, and convenience stores. Once you purchase an EasyCard and keep a sufficient balance, it will be easier and more convenient for you to travel wherever you go in Taiwan.
Top-up options:
- MRT station machines
- Convenience stores
- EasyCard add-value machines
Minimum top-up: NT$100
Minimum top-up each time: NT$100 or its multiples
Maximum balance: NT$10,000
If you do not intend to continue using the card, you can get back the remaining balance by terminating the contract or suspending the card.
The most convenient way is to top up your EasyCard at a convenience store. Some convenience store clerks do not speak English. You just give them your EasyCard and cash. Tell them how much you would like to add. They most likely know you want to add that amount.
Quick Tips:
- Most machines accept cash only (NT$100, NT$500, NT$1,000 bills).
- You can also top up at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart.
- Always keep at least NT$100–NT$200 on your card to avoid being short on balance for transit.
For self-service options
you can also use the EasyCard top-up machines at any MRT stations. In the past, the old top up machines and the machines for buying single trip tickets were separate. You can now buy tickets and top up value using the new machines.
- Tap on screen options: Top-up or Single-Journey Ticket
- Place your Easycard on the sensor then insert bills. The white machines only accept NT$100 bills (NT$100 or its multiples), but the silver machines accept coins (No amount limit).
- Please follow the instructions of the machine. When you are finished, simply take your EasyCard from the sensor.
- If you purchase a Single-Journey Ticket, you can receive a token at the bottom of the screen.
On the Last Day of Your Stay
Use Up Your EasyCard Balance
If you’re heading home and have just a small amount of money left on your EasyCard, don’t let it go to waste. One of the best ways to use up the remaining balance is to make a small purchase at a convenience store before you leave Taiwan.
Where to Use It:
- Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life or OK Mart)
- Supermarket (Carrefour or PX Mart etc.)
- Foods and Drinks (Starbucks, MOS Burger, McDonald’s etc.)
Final Day Tip: Don’t Run Out of Balance
If you still need to take the Taipei MRT and the Airport MRT to Taoyuan International Airport, make sure to keep at least NT$200 on your EasyCard.
This will ensure you have enough balance to cover all transit fares smoothly, without any issues at the gate—especially when you’re heading to the airport with luggage and limited time.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can use up the remaining balance by buying drinks, snacks, or souvenirs at places like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or vending machines. Even a simple bottle of water can help you bring your balance close to zero before heading through security.
Pro Tip: You can’t refund your EasyCard once you’re past security, so plan to use up the balance beforehand.
Taipei Fun Pass & Metro, HSR, TRA Tourist Day Pass
Not sure if you should get an EasyCard or a tourist pass?
- Taipei Fun Pass: Includes MRT, buses, Maokong Gondola, and attraction entry
MRT One-Day Pass: Unlimited MRT rides for NT$150/day
EasyCard: Pay-as-you-go system, works everywhere, gives fare discounts
For flexibility and longer trips, EasyCard is better. For fast sightseeing in 1–2 days, the Fun Pass may save more.
Taipei Fun Pass
The Taipei Fun Pass is a popular all-in-one sightseeing card designed for tourists who want to explore Taipei’s most famous attractions with convenience and cost savings. It includes unlimited MRT and bus rides in the Taipei area, plus admission to over a dozen top attractions like the Taipei 101 Observatory, Maokong Gondola, Taipei Zoo, and National Palace Museum.
This pass is available in different versions (e.g., 1-day, 2-day, 3-day) and can be purchased as a “transport + attractions” bundle or transport-only. It’s ideal for first-time visitors planning to visit multiple tourist spots in a short time.
Taipei Fun Pass Key Points:
- Unlimited rides on Taipei MRT, buses, and Maokong Gondola
- Free admission to popular tourist sites
- Available in 1-, 2-, or 3-day versions
Taipei Transport Fun Pass
The Taipei Transport Fun Pass is a cost-effective version of the Taipei Fun Pass, offering unlimited transportation without attraction admission. It includes MRT, city buses, and the Maokong Gondola, making it perfect for travelers focused on exploring neighborhoods, night markets, and natural scenery at their own pace.
It’s a great value for visitors who prefer DIY sightseeing over guided museum visits or expensive attractions. Since transportation costs add up quickly, this pass can help you save if you’re riding multiple times per day.
Taipei Transport Fun Pass Key Points:
- Unlimited travel on MRT, buses, and gondola
- No attraction entry included—transportation only
- Available in 1-, 2-, or 3-day options
Taipei Sightseeing Bus
The Taipei Sightseeing Bus is a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus service that loops around the city’s major tourist landmarks. With Red and Blue routes, it stops at highlights like Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Ximending, Shilin Night Market, and more.
You can choose from 4-hour, 1-day, or 2-day passes, making it a flexible and fun way to explore Taipei with informative audio commentary. It’s especially convenient for travelers who prefer minimal walking or are visiting with kids or seniors.
Taipei Sightseeing Bus Key Points:
- Hop-on hop-off access at over 20 key Taipei attractions
- Red and Blue line routes covering different city zones
- Audio guides in multiple languages
Taipei Metro (MRT) Day Pass
The Taipei Metro Day Pass offers unlimited rides on all MRT lines (including the Wenhu, Tamsui-Xinyi, Bannan, Songshan-Xindian, and Zhonghe-Xinlu lines) for a full day. You can start using it any time and ride as much as you like until the service ends that day.
This pass is perfect for travelers who plan to explore multiple districts or hop between attractions quickly. It’s not valid on buses or other transportation like the Maokong Gondola.
Taipei Metro (MRT) Day Pass Key Points:
- Unlimited MRT rides for one calendar day
- Does not include buses or gondola access
- Convenient for city-center explorers or short-term visitors
Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Day Pass
The THSR Day Pass provides unlimited rides on Taiwan’s High Speed Rail for one day, allowing you to travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung and everywhere in between. With trains reaching up to 300 km/h, it’s the fastest way to explore the west coast.
This is ideal for travelers who want to visit multiple cities in one day (e.g., Taipei → Taichung → Tainan → Kaohsiung). You can also choose between Standard and Flexible pass options, depending on your travel needs.
Taiwan High Speed Rail Day Pass Key Points:
- Unlimited THSR rides in a single day
- Valid on all 12 THSR stations across western Taiwan
- Choose between fixed-date or flexible-use options
Taiwan Pass: HSR + MRT
The Taiwan HSR + MRT Pass combines unlimited Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) rides with unlimited MRT rides in participating cities like Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung. This combo is great for intercity travelers who also want seamless local access once they arrive.
You’ll save time and money if you’re planning to travel between cities and sightsee locally. Just be sure to choose the right version for your destination city.
Taiwan Pass: HSR + MRT Key Points:
- Unlimited THSR + MRT (city-specific) access
- Great for fast intercity and urban travel
- Convenient for full-day or multi-city excursions
Taiwan Pass: TRA + MRT
The TRA + MRT Pass includes unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) local trains along with unlimited MRT rides in select cities. TRA trains are slower than HSR but reach more rural and scenic areas, making this ideal for nature lovers and slow travelers.
If you’re exploring the east coast, smaller towns, or want a more budget-friendly rail experience, this pass is a great choice. It’s also handy for combining coastal train rides with city exploration.
Taiwan Pass: TRA + MRT Key Points:
- Unlimited TRA (local trains) + MRT access
- Covers scenic and rural destinations not served by HSR
- Budget-friendly alternative for flexible travel
EasyCard vs iPass
Taiwan has two major rechargeable transportation cards: EasyCard (悠遊卡) and iPASS (一卡通). Both offer similar functions, but they differ slightly in geographic popularity, promotions, and partner systems.
Basic Overview
| Feature | EasyCard (悠遊卡) | iPASS (一卡通) |
|---|---|---|
| Launched | 2002 | 2007 |
| Primary Region | Northern & Central Taiwan (e.g. Taipei, Taichung) | Southern Taiwan (e.g. Kaohsiung, Tainan) |
| Public Transport | MRT, buses, TRA, YouBike, Maokong Gondola | MRT, buses, TRA, YouBike |
| Accepted in Stores | 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Starbucks, PX Mart | 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, McDonald’s |
| Top-Up Locations | MRT stations, convenience stores | MRT stations, convenience stores |
| Maximum Stored Value | NT$10,000 | NT$10,000 |
| Mobile Integration | Easy Wallet app | iPASS Money / LINE Pay integration |
Key Similarities
● Both are widely accepted across Taiwan for transport, retail, and small payments.
● You can top up both at convenience stores and MRT stations.
● Neither card works on Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) directly (you still need separate tickets).
● Both offer discounted public transportation fares compared to cash.
Key Differences
1. Regional Advantage:
- EasyCard is more common and sometimes better supported in Taipei and northern cities.
- iPASS is more integrated in Kaohsiung and the southern region.
2. Mobile App Integration:
- EasyCard works with the Easy Wallet app for balance checking and some mobile payments.
- iPASS supports LINE Pay and can be added to some Android digital wallets for mobile use.
3. Promotions & Compatibility:
- Some local promotions, museum discounts, or YouBike discounts may favor one card over the other depending on the city.
For Tourists: Which One to Choose?
If you’re visiting Taiwan and wondering whether to get an EasyCard or iPASS, the good news is: both cards work across most of Taiwan. You can use either one for riding the MRT, buses, TRA local trains, ferries, and even for shopping at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart.
That said, EasyCard is the most popular choice among tourists. It’s more commonly used in Taipei and northern Taiwan, where most travelers begin their journey. Because of its widespread recognition, you’ll find EasyCard featured more often in travel guides, vending machines, and tourist packages.
In short:
- Either card is fine for travel around Taiwan
- EasyCard is more tourist-friendly and widely adopted
- Most travelers buy EasyCard at the airport or MRT stations upon arrival
So don’t stress too much—just grab the one that’s more easily available to you. For simplicity and convenience, especially if you’re staying in Taipei or central Taiwan, EasyCard is the better choice.
Tip: Both cards cost NT$100 (non-refundable) and can be topped up the same way, so it’s perfectly fine to use either—or even carry both if you’re traveling around the island.
Using EasyCard: Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re catching the MRT in Taipei, hopping on a local bus in Taipei, or grabbing a cold drink at 7-Eleven, EasyCard is the most convenient way to travel like a local. The EasyCard does it all – quickly, conveniently, and without fuss.
If Your EasyCard Balance Is Insufficient
Don’t worry if your EasyCard doesn’t have enough money left—you can still complete one ride on public transportation, such as the MRT, Taiwan Railway (TRA), or city bus. In these cases, your card can go into a negative balance once, with a limit of up to -NT$60. However, you won’t be able to use the card again (for transit or purchases) until it’s recharged back to a positive balance.
Example:
- Let’s say your card only has NT$1 remaining.
- You take the MRT and your fare is NT$50.
When you exit, your card will be deducted to -NT$49, and the gate will beep differently to let you know the card is in negative balance.
After that ride, your EasyCard must be reloaded before you can use it again.
Important Note for Bus Riders:
If you’re on a city bus that charges two-segment fares (typically longer routes):
- 1-segment fare: NT$15
- 2-segment fare: NT$30
If your EasyCard doesn’t have enough balance to cover both segments, it will only deduct NT$15 for the first segment. You’ll then be required to pay the second segment in cash (another NT$15) when getting off.
Drivers do not provide change. Be sure to carry coins and insert coins or bills into the farebox.
Can I Top Up My EasyCard on the Bus?
No, you cannot top up your EasyCard on the bus. Buses in Taiwan do not have recharge machines, so it’s important to check your balance in advance before boarding.
If your EasyCard balance is too low to cover the fare, you can still ride the bus by paying in cash directly to the driver. However, you must prepare the exact amount, as drivers do not give change. Simply insert your coins or bills into the farebox when you board (or when you exit, depending on the route).
Tip: Always keep some NT$15 or NT$30 coins on hand in case your card runs out during travel.
EasyCard Taiwan App: Easy Wallet
The EasyCard app is called Easy Wallet (悠遊付), and it allows users in Taiwan to manage their EasyCard directly from their smartphones. However, there are some limitations for international visitors to be aware of.
Who Can Use It?
- The Easy Wallet app is only available in Mandarin.
- Only Taiwanese citizens or legal residents with a Taiwanese mobile number and bank account can register.
- Tourists and short-term visitors are not eligible to use the app for top-ups or linking bank accounts.
Tip for Travelers: If you’re visiting Taiwan short-term, you won’t be able to use the Easy Wallet app. Instead, top up your EasyCard at MRT stations or convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart.
EasyCard has an app called Easy Wallet, but the app is only available in Mandarin and only Taiwanese or residents can sign up. Users can connect their Taiwanese bank accounts to their EasyWallet app to automatically top up funds when they run out.
What Should I Do If My EasyCard Is Locked?
If you forget to swipe your EasyCard when exiting a bus, MRT, or train, the system may automatically lock your card to prevent further use. This is a safety and tracking feature that ensures fares are properly deducted.
How to Unlock Your EasyCard:
If your last ride was a bus:
- The bus driver can unlock your EasyCard on the spot. Simply let them know when you board again.
If your last ride was the MRT or train (TRA):
- You will need to visit the service counter at the MRT station or train station where the issue occurred. Staff will check your last trip, calculate any unpaid fare, and unlock your card after resolving it.
Tips to Avoid a Locked Card:
- Always tap your card when entering and exiting stations or buses.
- Listen for the confirmation beep and look for the green light when swiping.
- If you’re unsure whether you tapped properly, ask station staff for help immediately.
A locked card cannot be used again until it’s unlocked, so be sure to resolve the issue before your next trip.
Using My EasyCard Next Time?
Your EasyCard is valid for 20 years. If you’ve been away from Taiwan for a while, you don’t need to buy a new one. Just bring your old EasyCard back on your next visit.
To reactivate or update your card:
- Visit any Taipei MRT station.
- Go to a ticket booth or use an add-value machine.
- Ask the station staff to update the card for you.
Your card balance will remain intact, and there is no service fee for reactivation or extension.
Tip: It’s a great idea to keep your EasyCard in a safe place between trips. It saves you money and time the next time you visit Taiwan
Will My EasyCard Balance Disappear After It Expires?
No, your EasyCard balance will not disappear even if the card expires. However, once expired, you won’t be able to use it for public transportation or purchases until it’s renewed.
If your card has expired:
- You’ll need to visit a designated location, such as an MRT service counter, to renew the card.
- The balance remains safe and can still be used after renewal.
- There is no service fee for updating or renewing your EasyCard.
Tip for Tourists:
If you’re only in Taiwan for a short visit, avoid loading too much money onto your EasyCard. On your last day, simply use the remaining balance at a convenience store like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Carrefour, or PX Mart to bring your balance close to zero.
EasyCard Validity Check
Step1: Enter the EasyCard number
Step2: Click “Card Validity Period” to check the service
Step3: Enter the verification code and click Next
How to Refund Your EasyCard?
If you’re leaving Taiwan and don’t plan to return soon, you can get a refund for the remaining balance on your EasyCard. This process is simple, but there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Where to Refund:
- You can only refund your EasyCard at a Taipei MRT service counter (not at convenience stores or vending machines). Just go to any station with a staffed booth and ask to terminate the card.
What Happens During Refund:
- The remaining stored value on the card will be refunded to you in cash.
- The card will then be locked and deactivated, meaning it cannot be used again.
- The card deposit (NT$100) is non-refundable, as it’s considered a one-time purchase.
Tip: If you think you’ll return to Taiwan within a few years, consider keeping the card instead. EasyCards are valid for 20 years, and your balance will stay intact until your next trip.