Taiwan

1. Does Taiwan allow individuals to import unregistered prescription medicines by mail?
Yes. To help patients obtain medicines that are difficult to access domestically, Taiwan law allows individuals to import unregistered prescription medicines by courier under the “personal small-quantity use” rule, according to the *Regulations on the Management of Drug Samples and Gifts*. “Personal small-quantity use” must not exceed the reasonable amount indicated on the prescription. (Legal reference)

2. Do I need to apply to the government in advance?
In principle, yes. However, even without prior application, customs may still release the package directly. If your parcel is selected for inspection and Taiwan Customs requires you to complete a “Personal-use Drug Import Application,” there is no need to worry—the process is simple and can be done entirely online by following these steps:

1. Go to the TFDA website’s registration page and create a “general public” account (requires email and National ID number).
2. Return to the TFDA homepage, locate the “Personal-use Drug Import Application” section, and select “Online Application.”
   
   
3. Upload the required documents for “personal-use medicine import” as instructed:
   • 1. Full name (applicant must be the package recipient)
   • 2. Front and back photos of National ID
   • 3. Contact phone number
   • 4. Delivery address
   • 5. Doctor’s prescription (for prescription medicines; can be issued in Taiwan or overseas)
   • 6. Medical diagnosis (optional if the prescription already includes symptom descriptions)
   • 7. Name of medical institution (for overseas prescriptions, click “Edit” to enter manually)
   • 8. Outer box and leaflet images of the medicine (downloadable from the product page)
4. After submission, sign the “Personal-use Declaration” online to complete the application. Approval is typically granted within 1–2 days.

3. What is the customs clearance process for cross-border online shopping?
Since 2022, Taiwan Customs requires all recipients of cross-border parcels to download the EZWAY APP and complete both “identity verification” and “pre-authorization for customs brokerage.” When your DHL shipment arrives in Taiwan, DHL will notify you via SMS or email to complete “pre-authorization” for the corresponding DHL airway bill in the EZWAY APP.

• Android: EZWAY download link
• Apple: EZWAY download link

Please note: The person registered in EZWAY must be the same person as the package recipient; otherwise, customs authorization cannot be completed.

4. How much tax is required for personal medicine imports? How is it paid?
Taiwan imposes a 10% tax on imported medicines (5% import duty + 5% VAT). You may pay through the EZWAY APP, or DHL can pay on your behalf and collect the amount from you at delivery.