Taiwanese travelers can use automated customs in Czech Republic for departures; arrivals pending system integration

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced today that Taiwanese travelers departing from Prague's Václav Havel Airport to non-Schengen areas can now use automated customs clearance (e-Gates). However, the use of e-Gates for "arrivals" still awaits the integration of the Czech airport gate system with the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES).

During a regular press conference, Deputy Director-General of the Department of European Affairs, Li Hsiu-yao, stated that Václav Havel Airport has allowed travelers from Taiwan, the UK, Japan, and South Korea to use e-Gates for departures to non-Schengen areas since May 15. This measure helps alleviate congestion following the full implementation of the EU's EES on April 10. The privilege granted to Taiwanese travelers is also attributed to their consistently good immigration records.

Li explained that for "arrivals" into the Czech Republic, the government will evaluate the feasibility of opening e-Gates once the airport systems are fully integrated with the EU's EES.

During this transition, MOFA advises travelers to check the latest announcements on official EU and Schengen country websites before traveling. As Europe enters the peak summer travel season, MOFA reminds travelers to allow sufficient time for transfers and customs clearance when entering or exiting Schengen countries.