Egypt Launches QR Code Visa on Arrival from August 2026
Egypt is replacing its paper sticker visa with a digital QR code alternative, with the new system set to roll out at Cairo International Airport from 1 August 2026, before expanding to other airports following an initial testing phase. Travellers will be able to obtain the QR code visa through an official online portal, a dedicated mobile application, or self-service kiosks in airport arrival halls - with requests accepted up to 48 hours before departure, during a flight, or upon arrival. The digital visa is priced at $36, comprising the standard $30 visa fee plus a $6 service charge.
To ease the transition, both paper and digital visas will remain available during an initial parallel period, giving travellers the option to choose between the two systems. Authorities have indicated their intention to phase out the sticker visa entirely in favour of a fully paperless entry process. The move forms part of Egypt's broader tourism digitisation strategy, aimed at reducing border waiting times and strengthening the country's appeal as an international destination.
Source: Tourism Review