News Archives - iEagle.com Travel Magazine Travel Magazine Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:23:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 USA’s New Photo-based Entry Exit System for All Non-Citizens Takes Effect This December https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/what-is-biometric-entry-exit-rule-usa-for-non-citizens/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/what-is-biometric-entry-exit-rule-usa-for-non-citizens/#respond Tue, 02 Dec 2025 18:40:05 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2482 With a series of strict immigration measures, the US government is strengthening border checks for all foreign nationals. After introducing Visa Integrity fee and increasing CBP inspection procedures at the airports, the United States came up with a new entry exit rule for all US visa holders and Green Card holders. Under this new US […]

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With a series of strict immigration measures, the US government is strengthening border checks for all foreign nationals. After introducing Visa Integrity fee and increasing CBP inspection procedures at the airports, the United States came up with a new entry exit rule for all US visa holders and Green Card holders. Under this new US entry/exit system, photo capture and biometric data collection is mandatory for every non US citizen traveling to and from America.

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What is the new US entry and exit rule

According to the final rule published in the Federal Register in October 2025, the new US entry exit regulation requires CBP officers to take photographs and collect biometrics of all foreign citizens at airports, seaports, and land borders. The biometric data recorded when you arrive in the USA will be compared with the biometric data taken when you leave the country. If the departure data does not match the arrival records, you may face additional questioning, detention, or even deportation. In the worst cases, a mismatch can make aliens inadmissible to the United States for future travel.

Who are exempted from the new US entry exit system?

The Department of Homeland Security has clearly stated that the new biometric entry exit system applies to all non US citizens. Children below 14 years of age and elderly travelers over 79 years will also be photographed. The rule will remain mandatory for all visa categories including tourists, students, workers, and transit visitors. Only US citizens and US nationals are exempt from this biometric rule. The US-born children of foreign citizens fall under the exempt category since they are American citizens by birth.

Does the new US entry-exit rule apply to Green Card holders?

A big NO. Green Card holders are lawful permanent residents but not US citizens. Therefore, they must follow the same biometric entry exit procedures as all other foreign nationals. When Green Card holders travel internationally and return to the USA, CBP officers will require their photographs and record biometric details at arrival and departure points. Only their US-born children may be exempt from the requirement.

What is new about this system for foreigners’ entry to and exit from USA?

For many years, the United States has collected biometric information from select groups of foreign nationals during arrival. What is new is that the US government will now enforce a mandatory biometric entry exit system for all visitors and Green Card holders. Every traveler entering or leaving the USA will be photographed. The new entry-exit rule of the US is designed to reduce visa overstay cases, identify travelers using fraudulent documents, track individuals who violate immigration laws, and strengthen national security.

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“Skip Pajamas for Jeans,” US DOT Secretary Sean Duffy Urges Flyers to Dress with Respect when Flying https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/usa-launches-civility-campaign-urging-travelers-to-ditch-pajamas/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/usa-launches-civility-campaign-urging-travelers-to-ditch-pajamas/#respond Thu, 27 Nov 2025 16:39:00 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2457 “Wear jeans, not pajamas,” said US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during a press conference at Newark Liberty International Airport on November 24, 2025. “Let’s try not to wear slippers and pajamas as we come to the airport,” he urged travelers, recommending instead “a pair of jeans and a decent shirt.” His words came as part […]

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“Wear jeans, not pajamas,” said US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during a press conference at Newark Liberty International Airport on November 24, 2025. “Let’s try not to wear slippers and pajamas as we come to the airport,” he urged travelers, recommending instead “a pair of jeans and a decent shirt.” His words came as part of a new push to restore courtesy and calm to crowded airports across America.

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That simple plea marked the launch of a nationwide initiative, “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You,” a civility campaign by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The aim was not fashion policing but reviving a sense of decorum in air travel. The message was clear: when travel gets hectic, especially as the Thanksgiving holiday season brings the busiest travel days of the year, maybe what you wear can help shape how you behave.

Passenger behavior at airports and on flights has been a growing concern for the authorities. The FAA recorded more than 11,000 unruly passenger reports in the last few years. A study by a US travel group noted that one in five travelers admitted losing their temper at least once during a trip. In another survey, passengers listed lack of space, long lines and fellow travelers as the top reasons for stress. So the government’s logic is that better manners can lower tension and maybe even prevent small conflicts from turning into something bigger.

While Secretary Duffy focused on attire, his comments sparked a larger discussion. Many airlines, especially on long-haul business class flights, provide pajamas and slippers for inflight comfort. Premium cabins on Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Air India routinely include designer sleepwear for overnight flights. The nuance is that Duffy’s message targets boarding and airport behavior, not changing into pajamas after takeoff. The goal is to balance comfort and respect for shared spaces.

Under “The Golden Age of Travel” campaign, travelers are encouraged not only to avoid pajamas and slippers but also to show kindness and courtesy, while parents are reminded to keep an eye on their children’s behavior when flying. Duffy also urged them to help fellow passengers with overhead luggage, say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ to flight attendants, keep their shoes on, avoid putting feet on seats, and be mindful when reclining seats in economy class.

But the Internet had other plans. Netizens turned this into a complete debate show. On social media, one comment read: “I’ve got 99 problems and someone wearing pajamas on a plane ain’t one of them.” Others pointed to real frustrations. “Fix the tiny seats. Fix the delays. Don’t police our pajamas,” wrote one user on a travel forum. Another added that no matter what you wear, cramped overhead bins, long security lines, and overbooked flights make travel miserable — just a dress code won’t change that. One viral comment said the government should fix flight delays before fixing pajamas.

Many saw Duffy’s call as out-of-touch, especially during long flights to Taipei, Manila, Cebu, Beijing, Bangkok, and Singapore where comfort matters more than sophistication. Yet, some voices backed the idea. A few frequent flyers said airports often look sloppy. They believe better attire could improve overall mood. Some lifestyle experts even pointed out that clothes can influence behavior, and perhaps a neat shirt encourages a calm attitude more than bed‑time shorts.

The debate highlights a tension between comfort and civility. The campaign “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You” does not enforce rules but nudges travelers to consider how small actions and choices, including clothing, affect others in shared spaces. It also comes at a time when airlines are grappling with operational pressure, security challenges, weather-induced flight cancellations and growing passenger expectations after 43 days of the US government shutdown. However, DOT Secretary Duffy’s message is a playful reminder – air travel is also a shared social experience.

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No More Wheelchair-First Boarding in 2026: Southwest Airlines to Curb Wheelchair Misuse at US Airports https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/southwest-airlines-ends-wheelchair-first-boarding/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/southwest-airlines-ends-wheelchair-first-boarding/#respond Tue, 25 Nov 2025 19:47:31 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2443 Wheelchair misuse at US airports has now peaked to the point where Southwest Airlines can no longer ignore it. Beginning 26 January 2026, the airline will officially end wheelchair-first boarding, a policy that became increasingly vulnerable to abuse as more passengers in the US used it for early access rather than genuine mobility assistance. This […]

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Wheelchair misuse at US airports has now peaked to the point where Southwest Airlines can no longer ignore it. Beginning 26 January 2026, the airline will officially end wheelchair-first boarding, a policy that became increasingly vulnerable to abuse as more passengers in the US used it for early access rather than genuine mobility assistance. This change impacts Southwest flights across the US and the arriving international passengers of Philippine Airlines, EVA Air, and China Airlines who have interline partnership with Southwest Airlines.

This year, Southwest began rolling out a series of changes that continue to challenge its long-standing image as ‘America’s most budget-friendly carrier’. The airline ended its iconic ‘Bags Fly Free’ policy with new checked bag fees effective from May 2025. It has also announced elimination of its five-decade-old open seating program from January 27, 2026.

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What is Southwest Airlines’ Wheelchair-First Boarding Service?

Southwest Airlines’ wheelchair-first boarding service allows passengers who requested wheelchair assistance to board the aircraft before all other travellers, providing early access to seats and overhead bins. Designed to help passengers with limited mobility, the policy also became a boarding advantage for many who don’t  require wheelchair support at all, leading to operational challenges, delays, and misuse across US airports.

Why is Southwest Airlines Ending Wheelchair-First Boarding?

Southwest’s internal data of recent years revealed the scale of wheelchair misuse. On one recent flight with only 85 passengers, 28 people requested wheelchairs during boarding. Yet only 2 or 3 needed assistance while deplaning. Some Southwest flights have even reported more than 100 wheelchair requests.

Staff reports suggest that over 80 percent of these requests come from passengers who do not require mobility assistance. The incentive is clear. Early boarding means guaranteed overhead bin space, less waiting time in line, and a more comfortable boarding experience.

Rules for International Travelers Connecting to Southwest Flights 

Southwest Airlines acts as a leading interline partner of several international carriers operating flights from the USA to Philippines, Taiwan, and other countries. Their international passengers connect on Southwest flights for domestic travel from major entry points in the US. are fully entitled to wheelchair assistance in the United States under DOT guidelines. While wheelchair assistance continues, passengers will no longer receive priority boarding solely due to wheelchair use.

How are Other Airlines Addressing Wheelchair Misuse?

Several non-US airlines around the world are also experiencing misuse of free wheelchair service. Air India, a major international carrier, has also experienced unusual demand for wheelchair assistance at airports. On some India–US flights, up to 90–120 passengers request wheelchairs, often to bypass long airport queues. Recently, the Government of India allowed airlines to charge able-bodied passengers for wheelchair use. This differs from the United States, where there is yet no such rule. 

Southwest Airlines’ decision to end wheelchair-first boarding will close one of the biggest loopholes in US aviation. Though the culture of ‘Airport VIP for free’ in the United States will continue, as most US airlines do not ask for medical certificates or documents to fulfil wheelchair requests.

Travelers React to Southwest Ending Wheelchair-First Boarding

The news of Southwest Airlines ending wheelchair-first boarding has drawn mixed reactions from travellers. Many welcome it as a much-needed step to reduce abuse and make boarding fairer, while others worry that passengers with genuine needs may face longer lines and difficulty securing preferred seats. Several travellers shared personal observations of passengers requesting wheelchairs just to board early and then leaving the plane faster than them, echoing the popular US airport joke about “Jetway Jesus.”

Subscribe to Fly High for significant travel updates, domestic and international. Fly High is a leading air travel news portal by iEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Americans and immigrants in the US. Look no further than iEagle for airlines’ Black Friday flight deals from USA to Manila, Shanghai, Cebu, Beijing, Bangkok, Addis Ababa, Taipei and other South Asian destinations.

Will Southwest Airlines continue to provide wheelchair assistance after ending wheelchair-first boarding?

Yes. Passengers will continue to get wheelchair support from entry to boarding through security, regardless of the fact whether they genuinely need it. The only change is that requesting a wheelchair will no longer give them the privilege of early boarding.

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China Launches Digital Arrival Card; Know Who Needs It to Enter China and How to Apply for It https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/all-about-china-digital-arrival-card-for-foreigners/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/all-about-china-digital-arrival-card-for-foreigners/#respond Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:09:33 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2429 Effective 20 November 2025, China is jumping on the international bandwagon – Digital Arrival Card. Like other Asian countries such as Taiwan, Philippines, Thailand, India, and Indonesia, China has replaced the traditional paper arrival form with an e-arrival form for inbound foreign nationals, aiming to expedite their arrival and immigration clearance at all entry airports. […]

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Effective 20 November 2025, China is jumping on the international bandwagon – Digital Arrival Card. Like other Asian countries such as Taiwan, Philippines, Thailand, India, and Indonesia, China has replaced the traditional paper arrival form with an e-arrival form for inbound foreign nationals, aiming to expedite their arrival and immigration clearance at all entry airports. This upgrade for entry to China doubles convenience for foreign arrivals and aligns with modern travel standards.

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What is China’s Digital Arrival Card? 

The new e-arrival card to China is sort of electronic travel authorization (ETA). It is an online form that US nationals, citizens and other foreigners are required to fill out with their details for smooth entry to China. Digital Arrival Card must not be mistaken for an alternative to any Chinese Visa. Precisely, filling out this online within 72 hours prior to arrival is now part of China’s entry requirements for foreign travellers.

Who needs Digital e-Arrival Card to enter China? Who are exempted?

All foreign passengers of flights to China from USA and other countries must apply for China’s new e-Arrival Card, starting 20 November. The following are exempted to this requirement:

  • Holders of a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card in China
  • Non-Chinese citizens with a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao
  • Group travellers entering with collective visas or under visa-free arrangements
  • Transit passengers staying within the designated port area
  • Cruise passengers arriving and departing on the same vessel
  • Travellers using fast-track entry lanes
  • Foreign employees of exit-entry transport vehicles

How to apply for China’s Digital Arrival Card: Step-by-step guide 

China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) website makes it easy to fill out the e-Arrival Card form. It takes only a few minutes. The paper form will be gradually phased out from airports in China. If you are not able to apply for the new digital card in advance, you can do it at self-service airport kiosks on arrival or fill out and submit a paper form at the entry airport.

  1. Open the NIA website, the NIA 12367 app, or the WeChat/Alipay mini-program
  2. Enter your passport information, travel itinerary, address in China, and other details
  3. Submit the form within 72 hours before your scheduled arrival in China
  4. Save the QR code or confirmation screenshot for faster immigration clearance

Benefits of Digital Arrival Card to China

  • Faster immigration clearance at high-traffic airports like Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, and Shenzhen Bao’an
  • Fewer chances for errors in the online form compared to paper forms
  • Greater convenience for frequent foreign travellers to China
  • Reduced wait time on arrival and quick exit or transfer to domestic flights
  • No stress to fill out the form during a flight
  • Verifiable data of foreign visitors makes it more efficient for the Chinese government to track their arrival, departure, and visa overstay.

I am a US national. Do I still need a visa along with the Digital Arrival Card and flight tickets to Beijing?

Yes, being a foreign national, you need a visa to China depending on your purpose of visit. Please note the new Digital Arrival Card does not replace China’s visa requirements for you.

I will travel onward to a third country after a 10-day transit-visa free stopover in China. Is the new Digital Arrival Card mandatory for me? 

Yes, it is. Whether you plan a 72-hour or a 240-hour stopover in China after 20 November 2025, you must have China’s new Digital Arrival Card for hassle-free entry and seamless immigration clearance.

Does China mandate Digital Arrival Card for US citizens of China origin? 

Yes, US citizens of China origin (precisely, Chinese Americans) do also need to apply for Digital Arrival Card whenever they travel to any province in China.

Subscribe to Fly High for more such travel updates and guides to China, Taiwan, Philippines, and other destinations. Fly High is a leading air travel news portal by iEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner for Americans and immigrants in the US. Look no further than iEagle for cheap flight tickets to Shanghai, Manila, Vietnam, Bangkok, Cebu, Chiang Mai, and other South Asian destinations.   

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Phoenix to Taipei Flights: Two Airlines Entering Arizona-Taiwan Sector with Connection to Manila and Other Cities https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/airlines-starting-phoenix-to-taipei-flights/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/airlines-starting-phoenix-to-taipei-flights/#respond Sat, 02 Aug 2025 18:14:30 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2415 The US to Taiwan travel corridor is expanding with airlines launching new routes and destinations this winter 2025. While EVA Air flights from Dallas to Taipei are nearing the scheduled take-off in October, two other airlines from Taiwan announced Phoenix as their new destination in the United States. Precisely, direct service between Phoenix and Taipei […]

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The US to Taiwan travel corridor is expanding with airlines launching new routes and destinations this winter 2025. While EVA Air flights from Dallas to Taipei are nearing the scheduled take-off in October, two other airlines from Taiwan announced Phoenix as their new destination in the United States. Precisely, direct service between Phoenix and Taipei is not just happening, it’s doubling up with China Airlines and Starlux Airlines.

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This development in the US-Taiwan corridor opens further connections to Southeast Asian countries via Taipei for Filipinos, Vietnamese, and Thai immigrants in and around Arizona. Starlux Airlines and China Airlines would transform Sky Harbor International Airport, Phoenix into a significant US-Asia hub with flights to Taipei and beyond for Southeast Asians concentrated in the south coast of USA.

China Airlines

Among the best airlines operating between USA and Asia, China Airlines is the first Asian carrier to connect Taipei to Arizona, starting December 3, 2025. China Airlines will be operating Phoenix to Taipei flights for weekly three round trips scheduled as below:

Nonstop CI036 flights from Taipei (TPE) to Phoenix (PHX):

  • Departure from Taipei Taoyuan at 10:55 AM local time.
  • Arrival at Phoenix Sky Harbor at 8 AM local time

CI035 flights from Phoenix to Taipei via Los Angeles

  • Departure from Phoenix at 11:55 AM local time
  • Arrival at Taipei Taoyuan at 9:30 PM local time the next day

The upcoming service to Phoenix, Arizona will solidify China Airlines’ presence in the southwest coast of USA. In the next phase, China Airlines may expand to Texas, a key market for EVA Air.

Starlux Airlines

Among the youngest airlines in the world, Starlux Airlines is close on the heels of China Airlines, with its plans in progress for nonstop Arizona to Taiwan flights. Starlux, renowned for its distinctive boutique flying experience since 2020, will lunch Phoenix Taipei nonstop service on 15 January 2026 with weekly three flights – Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Outbound flight (JX026) from Taipei to Phoenix:   

  • Departure from Taipei Taoyuan at 8:45 PM local time
  • Arrival in Phoenix Sky Harbor at 5:40 PM local time

Return flight (JX025) from Phoenix to Taipei:  

  • Departure from Phoenix at 10:45 PM local time
  • Arrival in Taipei Taoyuan at 4:55 AM local time (+2 days)

Both the Taiwanese carriers – China Airlines and Starlux Airlines – will be deploying the most advanced A350-900s with Premium Economy experience for nonstop PHX to TPE service with connecting flights to Manila, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Thailand.

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Philippines to Get New Manila International Airport in Bulacan for $15bn: All about NMIA Project https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/new-manila-international-airport-bulacan-nmia/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/new-manila-international-airport-bulacan-nmia/#respond Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:31:22 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2402 With airlines opening new routes to Manila, like EVA Air’s Dallas to Manila, and Qatar Airways’ Doha to Manila, a second international airport in the Philippine capital is a pressing need of the coming days. The Philippines being one of the visa-free countries for US visa holders and Green Cardholders, airlines are increasing weekly numbers […]

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With airlines opening new routes to Manila, like EVA Air’s Dallas to Manila, and Qatar Airways’ Doha to Manila, a second international airport in the Philippine capital is a pressing need of the coming days. The Philippines being one of the visa-free countries for US visa holders and Green Cardholders, airlines are increasing weekly numbers of flights to Manila from USA and other countries. The New Manila International Airport (NMIA) in Bulacan is a right investment given the future projection of tourist inflows into the Philippines.          

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Manila’s second international airport in Bulacan province 

Significantly larger than Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Manila’s second airport NMIA project would cost US $15 billion. The construction of the first terminal building is scheduled to begin in January 2026, with the first phase being anticipated to be operational in late 2028. Given the NMIA project details, the upcoming airport in Bulacan, 30 minutes north of Manila, is expected to the Philippines’ main gateway to the world in the future. 

Manila Bulacan International Airport Infrastructure   

The new Manila International Airport will be more advanced than Ninoy Aquino Airport in terms of area, runways, passenger capacity, and accessibility. NMIA would spread over 2500 hectares (6200 acres) along the Manila Bay, as part of the 12,000-hectare airport city project in Bulacan province. The second Manila airport project details include 4 parallel runways with the capacity to expand to six in the future.

Second Manila Airport NMIA Project Timeline

Bulacan International Airport, Manila will be constructed in a phased way starting January 2026. As per the NMIA project timeline, the first phase is expected to open with one terminal and two runways by late 2028 aiming to serve 35 million passengers a year, if things go as planned. On completion of all phases, the airport would have the capacity to handle 100 million passenger traffic in a year.

Philippines New Manila Airport Connectivity

Philippines’ New Manila International Airport will not only cater to Metro Manila but also neighboring areas like Central Luzon and CALABARZON. A comprehensive accessibility network comprising a 6-lane Expressway will facilitate commute between Metro Manila and the upcoming airport in Bulacan. There are plans to extend Manila Metro’s 7 Line to the airport for a great deal of convenience.

For decades, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has been the primary gateway for flights to Philippines from the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asian countries. In 2024 itself, NAIA served 50.1 million passengers; the overcapacity burdens the airport infrastructure. Manila’s second international airport will not only share the passenger traffic but also open more international routes to/from Manila. With two international airports – NAIA and NMIA, the Philippine capital would become a premier destination for travel and trade.

Subscribe to Fly High for news stories of the Philippines, the US, and other destinations. Fly High is a leading travel community portal by iEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner for Filipinos and other immigrants in the US. Look no farther than iEagle for phone-only budget flight deals (+1-855-359-3245) and cheap airline tickets to Manila from New York, San Francisco, and other US cities.

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Taiwan Arrival Card Becomes Digital from OCT 2025: Know How to Apply for TWAC Online https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/taiwan-online-arrival-card-for-foreign-travelers/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/taiwan-online-arrival-card-for-foreign-travelers/#respond Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:16:42 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2356 The new Taiwan Arrival Card mandated for foreign travelers to Taiwan starting 1 October 2025 is digitizing the international arrival procedure. The launch of the TWAC online form is a strategic move by Taiwan to position itself among the Asian countries including Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia – which have introduced similar digital arrival cards for […]

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The new Taiwan Arrival Card mandated for foreign travelers to Taiwan starting 1 October 2025 is digitizing the international arrival procedure. The launch of the TWAC online form is a strategic move by Taiwan to position itself among the Asian countries including Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia – which have introduced similar digital arrival cards for foreign tourists. With the new online arrival card, Taiwan is eying to expedite immigration clearance and champion environmental sustainability by reducing paper consumption.

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What is the new Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC)?

The new online arrival card for Taiwan is an end-to-end digital entry requirement for most foreign nationals. International visitors to Taiwan will be required to apply for the arrival card online before boarding their flights to Taipei. This digital declaration will replace the current paper-based system, making entry into the country smoother and more efficient.

Who needs digital Arrival Card for Taiwan?

From October 2025, all foreign visitors including US citizens and Filipinos, who do not hold permanent or temporary resident status in Taiwan, will need to apply for the digital arrival card. Whether you are a holiday tourist or a business traveler, you must have completed online application for the Taiwan Arrival Card before departure of your Dallas to Taipei flight or before immigration clearance on arrival at Taoyuan International Airport.

How to apply for Taiwan Arrival Card online: A quick guide

You can apply for TWAC online via the official portal: twac.immigration.gov.tw.

It is recommended to make the online application within three days prior to your scheduled departure. However, if you are unable to do so in advance, you can fill out the online form at the departure airport or upon arrival in Taiwan. Furthermore, kiosks and staff assistance will be available at Taiwan airports to help travelers complete the digital TWAC application.

Upon successful completion and validation of the Taiwan Arrival Card online form, you will receive a confirmation email containing a QR code. While this QR code can be presented at immigration, in most scenarios, the immigration officers will simply scan your passport.

The system will then instantly retrieve your pre-submitted digital declaration in the TWAC form, significantly streamlining the immigration clearance process. This efficient system is designed to make entry into Taiwan swift and seamless for international visitors, especially after long-haul flights from New York to Taipei.

What information required for TWAC form online

The new Taiwan digital arrival card requires information similar to what is currently requested on the paper form, but with the added convenience of digital input. To complete the TWAC application online, you typically need to provide:

  • Passport details
  • Flight or ship details
  • Details of your stay in Taiwan
  • Your reachable contact number in Taiwan
  • Reason for travel
  • Occupation

I am traveling to Taipei in a group. Do I need to apply for a Taiwan Arrival Card for each traveler in the group?

For family holidays or group travel, Taiwan’s digital arrival card offers a significant advantage. You can register up to 16 people through a single form online. This would save you a lot of time before or after Newark to Taipei flights, so you could focus more on planning your trip.

Can I update my information in the TWAC form post submission? 

The ease of updating or modifying your information online is one of the benefits of digital Taiwan Arrival Card. If your travel itinerary or accommodation changes after you have submitted the TWAC application form online, you can use the “Update” section to modify your details before you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport.

Who don’t need to apply for Taiwan Arrival Card? Who are exempted?

Exemption from the Taiwan Arrival Card online effective starting October 2025 is given to Taiwanese nationals with household registration, and foreign nationals holding a Republic of China (Taiwan) Resident Certificate, a Resident Visa, or a diplomatic ID card. They don’t need to submit any TWAC form online or offline for their travel to Taiwan.

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United Doubles Frequency to Manila and Adds Adelaide, Bangkok, Vietnam to Its Asia Pacific Network https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/upcoming-united-airlines-flights-to-asia/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/upcoming-united-airlines-flights-to-asia/#respond Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:00:15 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2304 “At United, we’re changing the way people think about where they travel by offering the greatest access to see and explore the world, whether it’s for relaxation, adventure, or business,” said Patrick Quayle, United Airlines’ Senior Vice President for Global Network Planning and Alliances, as United announced plans to significantly expand its Asia-Pacific network. While […]

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“At United, we’re changing the way people think about where they travel by offering the greatest access to see and explore the world, whether it’s for relaxation, adventure, or business,” said Patrick Quayle, United Airlines’ Senior Vice President for Global Network Planning and Alliances, as United announced plans to significantly expand its Asia-Pacific network. While Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Adelaide are the upcoming destinations in United Airlines’ network, Manila will get more United flights starting in October 2025.

United Airlines news, United flights to Philippines, United Airlines Asian destinations

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Doubling San Francisco to Manila frequency 

Starting October 2025, United Airlines will operate a second daily flight from San Francisco to Manila. Good for Filipinos in California, this significant addition to the US-Philippines nonstop flight routes will provide both daytime and evening flight options from Manila and SFO Airport. And, cheap flight tickets to Manila are easily available on iEagle.com, the most reliable travel-booking partner for Filipinos and Americans.  

Furthermore, the two daily SFO to Manila flights solidify United’s position as the only American carrier serving the Philippines at both Manila and Cebu. For Filipinos in the US, it provides a direct and reliable link to home. Zeroing in on the frequency underscores United’s commitment to fulfilling the growing demand for travel between the two countries, whether for business, leisure, or family trips. 

Direct flights to Adelaide, Australia 

United Airlines is also bolstering its presence in Australia with the introduction of weekly three seasonal flights from San Francisco to Adelaide. This new route is particularly noteworthy because it makes United the only airline to offer direct, nonstop service from the US to four major Australian cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. Adelaide is one of the few emerging summer destinations for Americans to escape winter. Besides, travelers from Adelaide will get access to United Airlines’ vast domestic network through San Francisco, a major hub in the West Coast.

Fifth Freedom Flights: Bangkok & Ho Chi Minh City 

In October 2026, United is launching services to Bangkok, Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, via Hong Kong. Termed “fifth freedom” flights (intra-East Asian services) between Hong Kong to Bangkok and Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City, the upcoming routes will largely be operated as extensions to the existing United flights to Hong Kong from Los Angeles and San Francisco.

This means United becomes an end-to-end airline, offering not just trans-Pacific USA to Hong Kong flights, but also further connections in East Asia. So, you can seamlessly continue your journey to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City on United flights to Hong Kong from San Francisco and Los Angeles. Look no further than iEagle.com for budget flight deals to Bangkok and best airline deals to Vietnam from any US city.  

“For East Asian communities in the US, these new routes mean fewer layovers, shorter travel times, and more direct access to their home cities across East Asia, fostering stronger connections and cultural exchanges.”

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STARLUX Airlines Adds Taipei to Ontario Nonstop Flights to Its US-Taiwan Network https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/starlux-airlines-taipei-california-nonstop-flights/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/starlux-airlines-taipei-california-nonstop-flights/#respond Fri, 06 Jun 2025 19:57:41 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2293 The growing ties between the United States and East Asia are steadily weaving a rich and diverse tapestry, opening new avenues for both tourism and economic investment. This dynamic expansion has seen an increasing demand for seamless travel connections. In this context, STARLUX Airlines has launched a daily nonstop flight from Taipei to Ontario, California. […]

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The growing ties between the United States and East Asia are steadily weaving a rich and diverse tapestry, opening new avenues for both tourism and economic investment. This dynamic expansion has seen an increasing demand for seamless travel connections. In this context, STARLUX Airlines has launched a daily nonstop flight from Taipei to Ontario, California. Starting from 2 June 2025, Ontario is STARLUX Airlines’ third destination in California and sixth gateway in the US.

STARLUX Airlines news, Taiwan to USA nonstop flights, Taipei to California travel, Taiwanese airlines
PC: STARLUX Airlines

International aviation analysts have concerns about the profitability of adding Ontario International Airport to STARLUX’s US network. Nonstop flights to Ontario in the Greater Los Angeles Area provide travelers a convenient alternative to the often-congested Los Angeles International Airport. Furthermore, Ontario International Airport (ONT) carries considerable strategic weight, particularly given California is home to one of the largest and most diverse Asian-American community in the Greater Los Angeles area.

More than just an 11.5-hour long-haul flight, STARLUX Airlines’ Taipei-Ontario service acts as a vital link to the airline’s extensive network of over 27 destinations on 32 routes across Asia through its hub, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Passengers can now fly between ONT and TPE on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with STARLUX’s next-gen Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

This is somewhat good for Filipinos in Southern California, and Americans traveling to Hong Kong, Thailand, and Singapore via Taipei. They can now travel on one-stop flights from Ontario to Manila, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Singapore via Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, with cheap flight tickets from iEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Americans and Asian immigrant communities in the US.

Taipei-Ontario is the only route where STARLUX Airlines has no competition from other Taiwanese airlines – EVA Air and China Airlines – which also operate to Los Angeles and San Francisco. STARLUX Airlines’ new service combined with its existing daily flights to Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) significantly enhances travel flexibility and convenience for passengers flying into and out of California.

This expansion significantly underscores STARLUX Airlines’ ambition to elevate trans-Pacific connectivity with its signature premium service. With expansive future plans already in motion, including additional U.S. destinations like Phoenix, Arizona slated for early 2026, STARLUX is rapidly growing as a leading international luxury carrier for US-bound travelers from Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

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Southwest Partners with China Airlines to Offer Seamless Travel beyond West Coast; Good for Flyers from Taiwan, China, Philippines https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/china-airlines-southwest-airlines-partnership/ https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/china-airlines-southwest-airlines-partnership/#respond Fri, 06 Jun 2025 14:34:44 +0000 https://www.ieagle.com/flyhigh/?p=2278 Good news for US-bound travelers from Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines! China Airlines, the flag carrier of Taiwan, has teamed up with Southwest Airlines as an interline partner to expand within the United States. To take effect in early 2026, the Southwest-China Airlines partnership will facilitate your travel to 30 US cities, including Las […]

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Good news for US-bound travelers from Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines! China Airlines, the flag carrier of Taiwan, has teamed up with Southwest Airlines as an interline partner to expand within the United States. To take effect in early 2026, the Southwest-China Airlines partnership will facilitate your travel to 30 US cities, including Las Vegas, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Denver, Atlanta, Chicago, and Florida from the West Coast gateways of China Airlines on single flight tickets.

China Airlines news, Southwest Airlines news, China Airlines destinations, Southwest-China Airlines partnership

Currently, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Ontario, and Seattle are the only direct destinations of China Airlines flights to USA from Taiwan. But the newly announced partnership excludes New York JFK Airport. Southwest Airlines, one of the four largest domestic airlines in the US, will be providing seamless connections to and from the West Coast for China Airlines’ passengers from China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia.

Having good strategic presence at Los Angles International Airport, Southwest Airlines is expected to fill up China Airlines flights from LAX to Taipei with passengers for Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Just like Alaska Airlines, as an interline partner, feeds China Airlines’ outbound flights from Seattle and San Francisco.

While EVA Air, another Taiwanese airline, operates direct flights to Chicago, Dallas, and Houston from Taipei, China Airlines’ passengers will connect on Southwest flights to these major US cities. Only cheap flight deals for USA to China travel, and USA and Hong Kong travel can make the Southwest-China Airlines partnership effective in winning EVA Air passengers from Chicago, Dallas, and Houston.

It is anticipated that China Airlines’ interline agreement with Southwest Airlines may lead to codeshare partnership in the future. Come 2026, Southwest Airlines passengers will get seamless connectivity to Taipei, Beijing, Wuhan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chengdu, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila, and Cebu among China Airlines’ destinations.

Whether you prefer China Airlines or EVA Air flights, look no further than iEagle.com for US to China best flight deals, and cheap airline tickets to Philippines. Americans and immigrants in the US equally trust iEagle Travel as the most reliable air-ticketing partner for their budget international travel.

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