Taiwan Conscription: Mandatory Service Rules
Taiwan maintains mandatory military service. Here are the official rules, exemptions, and what conscripts can expect.
- ▸Conscription active: Yes
- ▸Length: 12 months
- ▸Applies to: Male citizens
Yes — Taiwan has active conscription
Taiwan requires mandatory military service of approximately 12 months for male citizens. Men born on or after 1 January 2005 serve 12 months (extended from 4 months effective 1 January 2024). Men born before 2005 serve 4 months under prior rules. Trans/intersex individuals subject to alternative service under December 2025 regulations.
Exemptions and alternative service
Most conscription systems include medical exemptions, conscientious objector provisions, and alternative civilian service paths. Specific exemption criteria are published by the relevant national defense or manpower authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military service mandatory in Taiwan?
Yes, for approximately 12 months for male citizens.
How long is mandatory service in Taiwan?
Approximately 12 months for standard service. Some branches and specialties differ.
- mnd.gov.tw; Department of Compulsory Military Service announcement Dec 2022