ROC ranks 8th in global expat experience survey

2014-11-03

Taiwan was rated eighth in the latest Expat Explorer Report published by HSBC, with respondents nominating it as one of the most popular destinations to live and work overseas.

Although Taiwan’s ranking remains unchanged from last year, it made significant progress in several key areas impacting expat life. These include integration, up from eighth to first, and household income, up from 34th to fifth.

In the survey’s four key areas of economics, experience, expenses and raising children abroad, Taiwan finished ninth, seventh, third and 18th, respectively.

According to the report, Taiwan’s world-class National Health Insurance, affordable lifestyle and vibrant local culture make it a stand-out option for expats. The country also performs well in the experience and economics league tables.

The NHI is viewed by respondents as one of the best systems in the world in terms of affordability and quality, the survey said, citing the finding that 69 percent believe that sorting out their health insurance and other medical provisions was relatively easy, as compared with a global average of 55 percent.

Affordability is another major plus for Taiwan. Nearly 67 percent of respondents indicated they spend less on medical bills in Taiwan than at home, significantly higher than the global average of 27 percent. They also describe the accessibility and quality of Taiwan’s health care as vastly superior.

Respondents also identified friendly locals, food, lower costs of living and a strong expat community as major benefits making Taiwan a popular destination for expats.

The survey was carried out between April and May, with 9,288 expats from over 100 countries and territories taking part. It is one of the largest and longest-running reports of its kind in the world.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=223513&CtNode=413)