Taiwan Embraces Digital Transformation: Say Goodbye to Paper Forms with the New Digital Arrival Card Starting October 1

Published on July 22, 2025

Taiwan undergoing a huge change in transportation at immigration, providing a more efficient digital experience for international travellers. Beginning on October 1, the nation will oblige every visitor to fill the Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC) via internet, a step that is touted to facilitate immigration and make traveling better.

This transition from the traditional paper-based system to a fully digital format represents a key milestone in Taiwan’s modernization efforts. Designed with user convenience in mind, the new digital arrival card aims to reduce waiting times at immigration checkpoints, providing visitors with a smoother and faster entry process. The TWAC system has been developed by the Taiwan National Immigration Agency (NIA) and is part of the broader efforts to streamline the country’s border management.

A Seamless Transition: From Paper to Digital

Until September 30, travelers can still complete the arrival card on paper or submit it digitally through Taiwan’s official immigration portal. However, from October 1 onward, the digital format will become mandatory for all international travelers without resident status. This includes tourists, business visitors, and short-term entrants from all corners of the world.

The online form is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing travelers to submit the required details easily. These include passport information, flight or ship details, expected arrival date, contact information, and the purpose of their visit. What makes this system even more user-friendly is the ability to pre-fill details by scanning the traveler’s passport, ensuring both accuracy and speed.

The implementation of the digital TWAC aligns Taiwan with other Southeast Asian destinations that have already adopted similar systems, such as Malaysia’s MDAC and Thailand’s TDAC. These systems have proven effective in reducing manual paperwork, thereby speeding up the immigration process and enhancing traveler satisfaction.

How the Taiwan Arrival Card Works

For most international visitors, the process will be straightforward. Travelers are required to submit their TWAC application online within three days of their arrival in Taiwan. After submitting the online form, travelers will receive a confirmation email, which will include a unique QR code. This QR code, along with passport scanning at immigration checkpoints, will allow officers to quickly retrieve the necessary information, accelerating the arrival process.

As part of the country’s push toward digitalization, Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency has ensured that the process is easy to navigate for all travelers. Email verification during registration helps ensure that only accurate data is provided, and travelers will find the system offers pre-filled information, making their entry even more seamless.

The system is also designed with accessibility in mind, as travelers who forget to complete the online form in advance can easily find assistance at kiosks available at the airport. This added support ensures that no one will be delayed or have difficulty using the system, even if they miss the online submission deadline.

What This Means for Travelers and Taiwan’s Global Standing

This digital initiative comes at a time when Taiwan seeks to position itself as a more attractive destination in the competitive global tourism market. The country’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history already draw millions of tourists each year. By improving its immigration processes, Taiwan is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the travel experience for visitors from around the world.

The TWAC will not only benefit travelers but also enhance Taiwan’s position as a forward-thinking destination in Asia. The initiative will make it easier for business and leisure travelers alike to navigate Taiwan’s borders, supporting the growth of tourism and business exchanges in the region.

As the world continues to embrace digital innovation in travel, Taiwan’s decision to implement the TWAC underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of the evolving global tourism landscape. The shift towards a fully digital immigration process will undoubtedly reduce the stress and inefficiency that often comes with traditional paper-based systems, marking a new era in Taiwan’s approach to international travel.

Conclusion: A Step Toward the Future of Travel

In summary, Taiwan’s transition toward digitalization of its immigration system via the Taiwan Arrival Card is a great progress. The implementation of this new program from October 1 will enhance the efficiency of document application and help ease the waiting period for international travelers to Taiwan as the country becomes an even more attractive to global visitors. User-friendly bells and whistles, like a digital interface that matches the ease of booking a concert ticket, are what you’d expect from a destination forward-thinking as Taiwan as a go-to travel destination.

For a new crop of travelers who are bound for Taiwan in the coming days, the stage is set for an even more convenient and timelier admission into the country, particularly with the adoption of an all-digital immigration process, and the prospect of a more enjoyable experience once they touch down. By welcoming tech, Taiwan is making travel even easier and positioning themselves as a modern and accessible hub in the middle of Asia.