Phase 0: Planning
Phone Plans
Last updated: 2026-03-07 | For: Engineers, Spouses
In Phoenix, almost nothing works without a US phone number: rental applications, bank accounts, school contacts, medical appointments. If possible, get a US number before you leave Taiwan.
Pre-Departure Options
eSIM is the most convenient option — activate a US number while still in Taiwan and use it immediately upon landing.
- Google Fi — ideal for Taiwan-US dual use. Works in Taiwan and switches seamlessly to US coverage. $20-65/month.
- T-Mobile eSIM — can be activated online. Best international roaming of the three major carriers (for trips back to Taiwan).
- Airalo / eSIM.me — short-term travel eSIMs, good for the transition period.
US Major Carriers
| Carrier | N. Phoenix Coverage | Taiwan Roaming | Family Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | Good | Best | $25-50/line |
| AT&T | Good | Fair | $30-55/line |
| Verizon | Strongest | Expensive | $35-65/line |
Budget Alternatives
- Mint Mobile — $15-30/month. Uses T-Mobile's network. Prepaid.
- Google Fi — $20-65/month. Most convenient for Taiwan-US dual use.
- US Mobile — $15-45/month. Choose T-Mobile or Verizon network.
Keep Your Taiwan Number
Do not cancel your Taiwan phone number. Your Taiwan bank accounts, government services, and existing contacts are tied to it.
- Chunghwa Telecom / Taiwan Mobile / FarEasTone all offer low-cost number retention plans
- Approximately NT$100-300/month to keep the number active
- You can set up call forwarding to your US number
Family Plans
Open a primary account under one person's name, then add lines for your spouse and children. Family plans typically save $10-20 per additional line compared to separate accounts.