Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced the launch of a new digital visa-on-arrival system, aimed at modernising entry procedures and improving the travel experience for international visitors.

The pilot phase will begin on August 1, 2026, at Cairo International Airport across all arrival terminals, before being gradually expanded to other airports nationwide.

The new system replaces traditional paper visa stickers with a digital Visa QR Code, allowing travellers to complete the process faster through a fully electronic system.

Visitors will be able to obtain their QR Code through Egypt’s official online portal, mobile application or self-service machines at Cairo Airport arrival halls.

The code can be generated before departure, during a flight or after arrival, either directly by travellers or through travel agencies.

 Border officers will verify the code by scanning it alongside the traveller’s passport.

The digital visa will cost $36, including the existing $30 visa fee and a $6 issuing charge.

During the pilot phase, the new system will operate alongside the current paper visa process before the QR code becomes the sole entry method.

The government plans a phased rollout to additional airports following the Cairo trial. -TradeArabia News Service