Taiwan’s iPASS Corp. has officially introduced a QR code-based payment system for public transportation, allowing passengers to pay for metro, bus, ferry, and rail services directly from their banking apps. The iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code aims to simplify fare payments and eliminate the need for physical cash, tickets, or smartcards.
The service went live on March 24, 2025, with support from nine financial institutions, including the Bank of Taiwan, Land Bank of Taiwan, and Chunghwa Post. To encourage adoption, users will enjoy a 100% fare rebate from April 15 to December 31, 2025, when using the QR code payment method.
iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code: A Revolutionary Step for Public Transport
The introduction of the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code marks a significant shift in Taiwan’s transportation system, integrating financial and transport networks into a single digital payment platform.
How It Works
- Passengers can access the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code through their bank’s mobile payment app.
- Upon reaching a ticket barrier, users simply scan the QR code at the reader to pay directly from their iPASS-linked account.
- The system eliminates the need for cash, physical tickets, or smartcards, offering a seamless and digital-first commuting experience.
Where Can It Be Used?
The iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code is initially available on the following transportation systems:
- Kaohsiung Metro
- Kaohsiung Light Rail
- Taichung Metro
- New Taipei Metro (Danhai LRT)
- Various bus, ferry, and railway services across Taiwan
iPASS Corp. has confirmed that more transport networks will be integrated in the coming months as part of a nationwide expansion plan.
Key Features of the iPASS QR Code Payment System
- Developed by Financial Information Service Co. in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
- Integrates the QR Code Common Payment Standard and the Transportation Ticket Two-Dimensional Barcode Data Format Standard.
- Connects banking systems and electronic payment institutions through a shared financial platform.
- Supports direct fare payments via major Taiwanese financial institutions.
Launch Event & Industry Support
The official launch event took place at Formosa Boulevard Station in Kaohsiung, attended by:
- Chen Yen-Liang (陳彥良), Vice Chairperson of Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission
- Wang Hong-rong (王宏榮), Deputy Secretary-General of the Kaohsiung City Government
- Other key industry leaders and transport officials.
The event was broadcast online, reflecting the project’s national significance and commitment to digital transformation in public transport.
Financial Institutions Supporting the Service
At launch, nine major financial institutions support the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code, including:
- Bank of Taiwan
- Land Bank of Taiwan
- Taiwan Cooperative Bank
- First Bank
- Hua Nan Bank
- Chang Hwa Bank
- Mega Bank
- Taiwan Business Bank
- Chunghwa Post
iPASS Corp. has plans to add more banks and financial service providers, making the payment system even more accessible.
Exclusive Promotional Offer: 100% Fare Rebate
To encourage public adoption, iPASS Corp. and the nine participating financial institutions are offering a 100% rebate on fares paid via the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code between April 15 and December 31, 2025.
This means passengers can ride public transport for free during the promotional period, as long as they use the QR code payment system.
FAQs
What is the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code?
The iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code is a QR code-based payment system that allows passengers to pay for public transportation directly via their bank’s mobile app, without needing cash or smartcards.
Which transport systems support the QR code payment?
It is currently accepted on Kaohsiung Metro, Taichung Metro, New Taipei Metro (Danhai LRT), and various bus, ferry, and railway services.
How do I use the QR code for payment?
Open your bank’s mobile payment app.
Select the iPASS “TWQR” Travel Code.
Scan the code at the ticket barrier’s QR code reader.
The fare will be deducted directly from your linked iPASS account.
Which banks support this service?
At launch, nine financial institutions support the system, including Bank of Taiwan, Land Bank of Taiwan, and Chunghwa Post. More banks will be added in the future.
What if I encounter issues with the QR code payment?
Passengers should contact their bank’s customer service or iPASS Corp. for assistance with any technical issues.
