Fundamental Rights in Taiwan

As a foreigner in Taiwan, you have substantial legal protections under Taiwan law. Understanding these rights and knowing how to protect them is crucial for your safety and well-being.

Basic Legal Rights

• Equal protection under the law
• Right to legal representation
• Right to an interpreter in legal proceedings
• Right to fair treatment by law enforcement
• Protection against discrimination
• Right to emergency medical care

Common Scenarios and How to Protect Your Rights

1. Police Interactions

Your Rights:

• Right to see police identification
• Right to know why you’re being questioned
• Right to remain silent
• Right to contact your embassy/representative office
• Right to request an interpreter
• Right to contact a lawyer

Recommended Actions:

1. Always carry your ARC/passport
2. Remain calm and cooperative
3. Document the interaction (time, location, officer names)
4. Request an English-speaking officer if needed
5. Contact legal representation if detained

Real-Life Example:
Scenario: John, an English teacher in Taipei, was stopped for a routine scooter check.
Best Practice: He:

• Showed his ARC and license
• Politely requested an English-speaking officer
• Took photos of relevant documents
• Recorded the officer’s name and badge number

2. Workplace Disputes

Your Rights:

• Equal pay for equal work
• Safe working conditions
• Protection against harassment
• Right to receive contracted salary
• Labor insurance coverage

Immediate Steps:

1. Document all incidents (dates, times, witnesses)
2. Save all communications (emails, messages)
3. Keep copies of contracts and pay stubs
4. Record verbal agreements in writing
5. File a complaint with the Labor Bureau

Real-Life Example:
Scenario: Sarah’s employer withheld her salary for “training periods.”
Best Practice: She:

• Kept all pay records and contracts
• Documented verbal promises in follow-up emails
• Filed a complaint with the Labor Bureau
• Consulted a lawyer before signing any agreements

3. Housing Issues

Your Rights:

• Fair treatment in rental agreements
• Return of security deposits
• Safe living conditions
• Privacy protection

Protective Measures:

1. Photograph property condition before moving in
2. Get all agreements in writing (Chinese and English)
3. Keep receipts of all payments
4. Document maintenance requests
5. Record all communications with landlord

4. Consumer Disputes

Your Rights:

• Protection against fraud
• Right to refund for defective products
• Fair treatment in service contracts
• Protection against discriminatory pricing

Evidence Collection:

1. Keep all receipts and contracts
2. Take photos of defective products
3. Record all customer service interactions
4. Save all digital communications
5. Document verbal promises in writing

Emergency Situations: What to Do First

Medical Emergencies

1. Call 119 for ambulance
2. Show National Health Insurance card
3. Request hospital with English services
4. Contact your emergency contact
5. Document all treatments received

Crime Victims

1. Call 110 for police
2. Request an English-speaking officer
3. Document everything immediately

• Take photos
• Write down details
• Get witness information

1. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand
2. Contact your embassy if needed

Before Consulting a Lawyer

Documentation Checklist

• [ ] Chronological timeline of events
• [ ] All relevant documents (contracts, receipts, etc.)
• [ ] Photos/videos of incidents or evidence
• [ ] Names and contact information of witnesses
• [ ] Records of all related communications
• [ ] Official documents (police reports, medical records)

Communication Tips

1. Prepare a written summary in English
2. Organize documents chronologically
3. List your specific concerns and questions
4. Be ready to state your desired outcome
5. Bring any relevant government documents

How We Can Help

At Better Call Simon, we specialize in protecting foreigners’ rights in Taiwan. Our services include:

• 24/7 emergency legal consultation
• Bilingual legal representation
• Document translation and review
• Communication with authorities
• Cross-cultural legal guidance

Our Approach

1. Initial assessment of your situation
2. Immediate guidance on evidence preservation
3. Clear explanation of your rights
4. Strategic planning for resolution
5. Continuous support throughout the process

Preventive Measures

General Tips

1. Keep important documents easily accessible
2. Save emergency numbers in your phone
3. Join expat support groups
4. Maintain copies of important documents
5. Learn basic legal phrases in Chinese

Digital Protection

1. Back up all important documents
2. Keep electronic copies of contracts
3. Record important conversations
4. Save screenshots of important messages
5. Use secure cloud storage

Conclusion

Understanding and protecting your rights in Taiwan requires preparation and knowledge. While this guide provides a foundation, each situation is unique. We encourage you to seek professional legal advice for specific issues. At Better Call Simon, we’re committed to helping foreigners in Taiwan navigate legal challenges effectively and protect their rights.

Remember: The best time to understand your rights is before you need them. Contact us for a consultation to better understand how to protect your interests in Taiwan.