🛬 Arriving in Taiwan: What to Expect at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

  

Traveling to Taiwan for the first time? Let me walk you through our arrival experience at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) — the busiest airport in Taiwan and the main gateway for most international travelers. With two terminals, it’s important to know where your airline is assigned, especially if you’re traveling with friends arriving on a different flight like we did!

Our flight with Philippine Airlines arrived at a different terminal than my friends who flew in via EVA Air, but thankfully, signage was clear and the process wasn’t too stressful. Here’s everything you need to know, from filling out arrival forms to customs checks and airport tips — all based on my personal experience.

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✈️ Airlines by Terminal at Taoyuan Airport

Taoyuan Airport has two terminals — and each one services specific airlines. Make sure to check your arrival terminal before you fly so you can plan accordingly if you're meeting someone.

We arrived separately, but the clear signage and organized layout made it easy to find each other at the arrival area.

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📝 Filling Up Arrival & Customs Declaration Cards

During your flight, non-citizens are handed two forms:

1. Arrival (Disembarkation) Card
2. Customs Declaration Form

If you happened to be asleep during distribution (like I was 😂), don't worry. You can still grab the forms near the passport control area. Look for airport personnel in uniform — they’re very helpful.

Pro Tip:
You can also fill out the arrival card online ahead of time to save time upon landing:
👉 Online Arrival Card for Taiwan Visitors

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🧑‍⚕️ Health & Quarantine Screening

 

As you make your way to immigration, you’ll pass through the human quarantine inspection area. If you're wearing a hat or hoodie, you may be asked to remove it for infrared fever screening. I didn’t even notice this process during our trip — probably because I wasn’t sick and the line just kept moving.

But if you're feeling unwell, expect further health checks in line with Taiwan’s strict public health safety.

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🛂 Passport Control / Immigration

At the immigration counter, be ready to present the following:

• Passport
• Taiwan Visa (if required for your nationality)
• Arrival Card
• Onward/Return Ticket (not always asked, but better to have it ready)

 

Here’s where I miscalculated. I only allotted 15 minutes for immigration in our itinerary, thinking it would be like Hong Kong. Nope! Due to a long line and a minor system error, it took me almost 30 minutes to get through. 😅 I honestly got nervous for a moment, wondering if I did something wrong!

So give yourself at least 20–30 minutes, especially during peak arrival hours.

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🧳 Baggage Claim

After immigration, head to the baggage carousel area to collect your luggage.

🎒 Bonded Baggage Option:
If for any reason you don’t want to carry your baggage through customs right away, Taiwan offers a Bonded Baggage service — you can leave your bag for up to 24 hours and collect it later at departure.

📣 Tip: Listen carefully for the baggage carousel number! I almost missed mine because I was too excited. Thankfully, my friend snapped me out of daydreaming just in time.

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🍊 Animal & Plant Quarantine Check

A quick reminder: fresh fruits and plants are not allowed into Taiwan. If you’re carrying any animal or plant products, you must declare them at customs.

We met a fellow Filipina traveler who brought fruits from the Philippines. She was asked to throw them away — no ifs or buts. And the same rule applies when you leave Taiwan. If you're flying back home with fruits, expect the same inspection.

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🧾 Customs Inspection

Now comes the final step before exiting:

• If you have nothing to declare, walk through the green lane marked “Nothing to Declare.”
• If you’re carrying items that exceed the duty-free limits or items with import restrictions, go to the red lane for “Goods to Declare.”

Here are some things to keep in mind:

✅ Personal items worth up to US$20,000 are generally allowed
❌ Restricted items (like controlled meds or certain electronics) must have the proper import license

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🧭 How to Exit the Airport

After clearing customs, you're officially in Taiwan! If you’re not sure how to get to Taipei City or other destinations, I recommend checking out my detailed guide:
👉 How to Get Out of Taoyuan Airport

You’ll find bus, train, taxi, and SIM card options explained there. (Let me know if you'd like me to polish that next.)

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✍️ Arriving at Taoyuan Airport was generally smooth — but there were a few surprises, especially during immigration. What I appreciate most is how organized and sign-posted everything is. Even with the long lines, things kept moving.

✅ Best Tips:

• Fill out your arrival card online
• Don’t bring fresh fruits (in or out!)
• Allot extra time at immigration
• Follow the green lane if you have nothing to declare
• Don’t forget to grab your luggage (and double-check the carousel number!)

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🛬 Just landed in Taiwan? 

Don’t get overwhelmed—bookmark this arrival guide to breeze through immigration, luggage claim, SIM card setup, and transport options like a pro.

🎒 Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, knowing what to expect at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) can save you time, stress, and money.

📌 Read the full guide, take notes, and start your Taiwan adventure with confidence and ease.