Opening a Bank Account in Hualien

This guide is provided as a summary to assist Tzu Chi University students. Bank account application rules, required documents, service availability, and English support can vary by branch and may change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with your chosen bank . Consult the Office of Global Affairs (OGA) if you need help.

How to Apply for a Bank Account?

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Introduction

Bank Options

Step-by-Step: Bank Application​

Helpful Tips for TCU Students​

Introduction

International students in Taiwan are strongly encouraged to open a local bank account. Having a bank account makes it easier to:

  • Pay tuition and other fees

  • Receive scholarship payments or part-time job income

  • Manage day-to-day expenses safely

Most banks in Taiwan accept applications from foreign students who hold an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). Without an ARC, opening a full-function bank account is usually not possible.

    • Legally reside in Taiwan for the duration of your studies

    • Open a bank account, sign rental contracts, and apply for mobile phone plans

    • Register for National Health Insurance (NHI) once eligible

All Tzu Chi University international students enrolled in degree programs must apply for an ARC within 30 days of entering Taiwan on a Resident Visa. Students who initially entered on a Visitor Visa must first change to a Resident Visa, then apply for an ARC.

Bank Options

Students at Tzu Chi University often open accounts with these local banks and institutions in Hualien:

    • Chunghwa Post (中華郵政 / 郵局)
      In addition to mailing services, post offices in Taiwan function like banks. They provide savings accounts, remittances, and ATM cards. The post office is widely accessible, especially in smaller towns.

    • Cathay United Bank (國泰世華銀行)
      One of Taiwan’s largest private banks, known for English-friendly services, online/mobile banking, and convenient credit card options.

    • Hualien Second Credit Cooperative (花蓮第二信用合作社 / 二信)
      A local financial cooperative with strong ties to the Hualien community. It’s student-friendly and convenient for those living near campus, with straightforward account services.

Step-by-Step: Bank Application

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

  • Passport

  • ARC (Alien Resident Certificate)

  • TCU student ID or enrollment certificate

  • Taiwan mobile number (for SMS/online banking)

  • Local address (dorm/lease; bring proof if you have it)

  • Initial deposit (bring at least NT$500 –1,000, depending on the bank)

  • (Optional) Personal seal (chop) — confirm with the bank

Step 2: Visit the Bank/Post Office

  1. Go to the branch you selected (Bank of Taiwan, Chunghwa Post, Cathay United Bank, or Hualien Second Credit Cooperative).

  2. Tell the staff you want to open a personal savings account.

  3. Fill out the forms with your personal information (staff can help if you don’t read Chinese).

  4. Provide your signature (or chop) as your official specimen.

  5. Deposit your initial funds into the account.

Step 3: Receive Your Bank Materials

  • Account number for tuition, scholarships, and payments

  • Passbook (存摺) (many banks still provide this)

  • ATM/debit card (usually issued the same day)

Step 4: Set Up Online Banking

  1. Register your Taiwan mobile number with the bank for SMS verification.

  2. Download the bank’s mobile app (some have English versions, such as Cathay).

  3. Activate online and mobile banking for easy transfers and payments.

Helpful Tips for TCU Students

  • Most banks require an ARC to open a full-function account. Without it, your options will be limited.

  • If you move or change your phone number, update your bank records within 30 days.

  • Keep your ATM card, PIN, and passbook safe. Do not share your PIN.

  • English service varies: Cathay branches often have better English; Bank of Taiwan and Chunghwa Post may have limited English support.

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