Egypt is entering a new era in its visa-on-arrival system to digitize entry procedures. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities will launch the pilot phase of the digital "Visa-on-Arrival" application at Cairo International Airport on August 1, 2026. This step aims to make entry into the country faster and more comfortable for international visitors. Following the pilot implementation, the system will be gradually extended to other international airports.

With the new system, the traditional visa sticker affixed to passports will be replaced by a digital QR code. This will simplify entry procedures and allow for a more effective response to the increasing demand for international travel.

QR Code to Replace Visa Sticker

Travelers will be able to generate the visa QR code via the official online portal, the official mobile application, or self-service kiosks at Cairo International Airport. The official online portal is planned to be accessible 48 hours before the pilot application begins.

The QR code can be generated before the journey, during the flight, or upon arrival at the airport. Travel agencies will also be able to perform this process on behalf of their clients. Upon entry into the country, the QR code will be presented digitally or as a printout along with the passport and scanned by border officials. Each QR code will be valid for 48 hours from the moment it is generated.

Existing System to Continue During Pilot Phase

During the pilot application period, the existing visa sticker application affixed to passports will also continue. After the testing process is completed, this method will be entirely abolished, and only the digital QR code will be used for the visa-on-arrival system.

The total fee for the new system has been set at 36 US dollars. Of this amount, 30 dollars covers the existing visa fee, and 6 dollars covers the processing fee.

To Be Extended to Other Airports

Following the pilot implementation in Cairo, the Egyptian government plans to gradually implement the digital visa-on-arrival system at the country's other international airports. The airports and dates for the new implementation will be announced in advance.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has requested tour operators, travel agencies, and other stakeholders in the tourism sector to inform their customers about the new system in advance.