Egypt to Introduce Digital Visa on Arrival System With QR Codes

Starting August 1st, 2026, eligible travellers landing at Cairo International Airport will be able to obtain a visa-on-arrival digitally, replacing the familiar paper sticker with a secure QR code that can be scanned alongside their passport at immigration.

The new system, launching as a pilot across all arrival terminals in Cairo before expanding nationwide, allows visitors to generate their visa through an official online portal, mobile app or self-service kiosks up to 48 hours before departure, during their flight or upon arrival. The digital visa will cost USD 36.

For now, travellers can still choose the existing paper visa-on-arrival while the new system is rolled out, with the sticker expected to be phased out following the pilot.

Designed to reduce queues and streamline the arrival process, the platform also allows accredited travel agencies to generate QR codes for organised tour groups. The digital visa is currently available only to travellers from countries already eligible for Egypt's visa-on-arrival programme, marking another step in the country's broader efforts to make visiting Egypt a smoother experience.