Being investigated or arrested in a foreign country is an overwhelming experience. For foreigners living in or visiting Taiwan, the stress is multiplied by language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliar legal procedures.
Criminal charges here can affect your visa, employment, residency status, and long-term future.
If you are a foreign national facing criminal allegations in Taiwan, having a skilled, English-speaking criminal defense lawyer is essential—not optional.
At Chiensheng Law Firm（謙聖國際法律事務所）, we specialize in defending foreigners in Taiwan’s criminal justice system. Our team has extensive experience handling cases involving expatriates, international students, migrant workers, and business travelers.
This guide summarizes the key information every foreigner should understand if facing criminal charges in Taiwan.
Common Criminal Cases Involving Foreigners in Taiwan
Although Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, foreigners can still be involved in criminal investigations—often unintentionally.
Taiwan’s laws are strict, and penalties can be far more severe than in many Western countries. Based on our professional experience, here are the most common scenarios:
1. Drug Offenses
Foreigners are frequently investigated for possession, use, or trafficking of narcotics.
Under Taiwan’s Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act, penalties are among the harshest in Asia.
Category 1 drugs（e.g., heroin）may lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty for trafficking.
Category 2 drugs（e.g., amphetamines, MDMA, ketamine）may result in at least 2 years imprisonment even for possession.
Reference: Ministry of Justice (2025)
2. DUI – Driving Under the Influence
Driving a car, scooter, or even e-bike over the alcohol limit can result in:
Heavy fines
License suspension
Criminal charges
Deportation or visa cancellation
Taiwan treats DUI as a serious criminal offense.
3. Fraud and White-Collar Crime
Foreign nationals may face investigations related to:
Embezzlement
Contract fraud
Business or employment-related fraud
Cryptocurrency-related allegations
Penalties often include long prison terms, major financial penalties, and permanent bans on re-entry.
4. Immigration Violations
Overstaying a visa is extremely common among foreigners unfamiliar with the rules.
However, consequences can be severe:
Fines up to NT$10,000
Entry bans up to 10 years
Possible criminal liability for repeated or intentional violations
Reference: Taiwan News (2023)
Your Rights After Arrest in Taiwan
What Every Foreigner MUST Do Immediately
The first few hours after police detention are the most critical. Foreign government advisories—including the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT)—emphasize that foreigners must follow local law and procedures. Here is what you must do:
1. Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
You are not required to answer police questions without a lawyer.
Do not sign documents you do not understand.
This is a fundamental right under Taiwanese law.
2. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate
You may request that the police notify your country’s representative office.
Consular officers can:
Visit you
Provide a list of attorneys
Assist with communication
—but they cannot act as your lawyer nor secure your release.
Reference: AIT “Arrest of a U.S. Citizen”
3. Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer
This is the most important step.
Taiwan’s criminal procedures are complex, and misunderstandings caused by language gaps can lead to wrongful convictions.
While the Legal Aid Foundation does offer assistance, criminal cases involving foreigners require specialized, strategic defense by a full-service criminal law team.
Why Foreigners Choose Chiensheng Law Firm
Your Strongest Ally in Taiwan’s Criminal System
Foreign nationals need a law firm that understands both criminal law and cross-cultural communication. Chiensheng Law Firm is one of the few in Taiwan with proven expertise in both.
1. We Specialize in Criminal Defense
We are not general practitioners—
we are a criminal-defense-focused law firm handling:
Drug cases
Fraud / cybercrime
Money laundering
Assault
Immigration-related crimes
We have extensive experience defending foreigners.
2. Fluent English Communication
Our attorneys communicate with clients directly in English—not through translators.
We ensure you understand:
The investigation process
Your rights
Court proceedings
Possible outcomes
Defense strategy
Clear communication means fewer risks and better results.
3. Deep Knowledge of Taiwan’s Criminal System
We know how local:
Police stations
Prosecutors
Courts
operate.
This insight allows us to develop strong, realistic, and strategic defense plans.
Do Not Face Taiwan’s Legal System Alone
If you or someone you know is a foreigner under investigation in Taiwan, the situation demands immediate professional help.
A conviction can lead to imprisonment, fines, deportation, and a permanent criminal record affecting your entire future.
Act now. Protect your freedom. Protect your immigration status. Protect your life.
Contact Chiensheng Law Firm（謙聖國際法律事務所）
We provide urgent, confidential, English-speaking criminal defense support for foreigners across Taiwan.
📞 Taipei Office｜02-2388-8962
📞 Taoyuan Office｜03-3150-034
