A new process has been introduced at popular tourist destinations to enhance travel efficiency and security for incoming visitors.
The National Immigration Agency of the Republic of China indicates that anyone traveling to Taiwan will need to apply for a “Digital Arrival” card (TWAC) at least three days prior to their arrival.
This card is free of charge but requires essential information like a valid passport, email, occupation, phone number, and details about travel accommodations.
Government figures show that over 7.5 million tourists came to Taiwan in 2024, with data from the Taiwan Tourism Bureau ranking the U.S. as the fourth largest group of visitors.
Travelers from mainland China will also be required to complete this new form.
This change is part of a larger global movement towards modernizing travel systems, characterized by heightened surveillance and stricter security protocols.
Countries such as France, Italy, Portugal, the UK, and 25 others are set to implement a new entry/exit system (EES) starting October 12, as previously reported by Fox News Digital.
The European Union’s website explains that these nations will gradually roll out various components of the EES, including the collection of biometric data like facial images and fingerprints.
It is worth noting that, for the time being, biometric data collection may not take place at all border points, and personal information may not be recorded in the system.
This new approach aims to modernize border control measures throughout Europe, enhancing security measures to address issues like fraud and terrorism.
This system will also help monitor whether visitors are allowed to remain in the Schengen area, which consists of more than two dozen European nations that permit free travel for visitors.
For travelers with biometric passports—those equipped with “chips” containing individual biometric data—self-service systems will be made available.
