Pilot programme begins at Cairo International Airport; QR code-based visa to replace paper stickers in phased rollout
Egypt has taken a major leap in digitising its border entry procedures with the launch of a Digital Visa-on-Arrival System, aimed at making the arrival process faster, more efficient, and hassle-free for international travellers.
Introduced by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities, the pilot phase of the new system officially commenced on August 1, 2026, across all arrival terminals at Cairo International Airport. The initiative marks the beginning of a nationwide rollout, with additional Egyptian airports expected to adopt the system in phases.
The new digital platform replaces the traditional paper visa sticker with a Visa QR Code, enabling travellers to secure their visa quickly and complete immigration formalities with minimal waiting time.
Travellers can obtain the Visa QR Code through the official online portal, a dedicated mobile application, or self-service kiosks installed in the arrival halls at Cairo International Airport. The online portal is expected to become operational 48 hours before the pilot launch.
The QR code can be generated before departure, during the flight, or immediately upon arrival by either the traveller or an authorised travel agency. At immigration, officers will simply scan the QR code alongside the traveller’s passport to complete the entry process. The QR code can be presented digitally via email or as a printed copy and will remain valid for 48 hours from the time of issuance.
The digital visa will cost USD 36, comprising the existing USD 30 visa fee and a USD 6 issuance fee.
During the pilot phase, travellers will continue to have the option of obtaining the traditional paper visa-on-arrival. However, once the trial period concludes successfully, the paper visa sticker will be phased out entirely, with the QR code becoming the standard visa-on-arrival format for eligible international visitors.
Following the successful implementation at Cairo International Airport, the Egyptian government plans to extend the Digital Visa-on-Arrival System to airports across the country, with rollout schedules to be announced in due course.
The Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities has also urged airlines, travel agencies, tour operators, and other travel industry stakeholders to educate travellers about the new digital visa process ahead of its wider implementation.
The launch of the Digital Visa-on-Arrival System underscores Egypt’s commitment to embracing digital innovation, strengthening border management, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. The initiative is expected to simplify arrivals, reduce processing times, and support the country’s growing tourism sector by offering a seamless gateway for international travellers.
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