To enhance the living experience for foreign residents, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen their sense of community, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-Yen has unveiled a thoughtful New Year benefit. Foreign nationals holding an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate with a registered Taichung address can now qualify for the city’s exclusive Double Ten Bus Discount. This program has garnered positive feedback from the expat community. Transportation Bureau Director Yeh Chao-fu noted that starting from January 20, eligible applicants can submit their requests online via the bureau’s Citizens Exclusive website or at designated locations for card linking. Applicants need to bring their Alien Permanent Resident Certificate and an e-voucher to one of the 107 service centers across the city. After completing the linking process, they can enjoy the city bus benefits.
Transportation Bureau Director Yeh noted that Mayor Lu values the convenience of public bus travel and has introduced practical measures to promote its use. Since 2021, the city has rolled out an exclusive bus discount program for Taichung citizens, their new immigrant spouses, and students from other counties/cities studying in Taichung. Passengers using a linked Citizens Exclusive Transportation Card can enjoy free rides within 10 kilometers and a maximum charge of NT$10 for longer distances. Statistics show that since the program began in 2021, 1.83 million people have registered, driving a notable shift toward public transportation. This program has proven effective in reducing environmental pollution and addressing parking issues.
“We welcome foreign nationals to live in Taichung!” said Transportation Bureau Director Yeh, saying that the city’s Double Ten Discount, once only exclusive for Taichung citizens, is now available to foreign nationals with an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate. After careful evaluation, the bureau has expanded eligibility to include foreigners with an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate and a registered Taichung address. Starting January 20, qualified applicants can either fill out an online application form or submit a paper application in person. With their e-voucher, they can enjoy unlimited public bus travel at a maximum fare of only NT$10 per trip. Don’t miss out on this benefit!
The Transportation Bureau noted that eligible foreign nationals could apply for the Double Ten Bus Discount by bringing their Alien Permanent Resident Certificate and an e-voucher (EasyCard, iPASS, or cash) to one of 107 designated locations in Taichung. These include the New Taichung City Hall, the Transportation Bureau, district offices, household registration offices, MRT Green Line stations, and public libraries. At these sites, they can link their transportation card to activate the discount. For more information on application sites, FAQs, discount details, form downloads, card status, or application tracking, visit the Citizens Exclusive website at https://idoor.taichung.gov.tw/.