Compulsory Military Service in Taiwan

Taiwan law provides for compulsory military service. Men between the ages of 18 and 36 who were born in Taiwan or who have ever held a Taiwan passport should be aware that they may be subject to compulsory military service in Taiwan, even if they are also U.S. citizens, and even if they have entered Taiwan on U.S. passports.

Potentially affected individuals are urged to consult with the nearest office of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States before visiting Taiwan to determine whether they are subject to the military service requirement. Please click here for more information.

Dual nationals currently in Taiwan can contact the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission at 02-2327-2600 ext 2929 or visit the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission website for more information.

Possession of U.S. citizenship does not prevent Taiwan citizens from being subject to this law. If an individual is considered a Taiwan citizen at birth, he retains that status even after acquiring U.S. citizenship. Under Taiwan law, he may not abandon his Taiwan citizenship until after age 36.

The United States Government cannot protect dual nationals from compulsory military service.