Egypt Embraces Digital Transformation: Launching QR Code Visa-on-Arrival on August 1
Egypt is on the brink of revolutionizing the arrival experience for millions of international travelers. The Digital Visa-on-Arrival System is set to launch at Cairo International Airport on August 1, 2026. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced a shift from traditional paper visa stickers to scannable QR codes. This new system will be available to approximately 46 eligible nationalities.
With the new system, travelers have the flexibility to generate their Visa QR Code at their convenience. This could be before departure, during their flight, or after landing. The QR code can be generated via an official government portal, a dedicated mobile app, or self-service kiosks located in Cairo Airport’s arrival halls. The total cost for this service is $36 USD. This includes the existing $30 visa fee and a new $6 digital processing charge. It’s important to note that each QR code is only valid for 48 hours from issuance. Therefore, travelers are advised to generate theirs close to their arrival date.
The pilot program will be available at all arrival terminals at Cairo International Airport. This marks the first phase of a nationwide rollout planned for other Egyptian airports. During the testing phase, the paper sticker system will still be available as a backup. This initiative is a testament to Egypt’s thriving tourism sector, which continues to break records. In the first four months of 2026 alone, the country welcomed 6.1 million international tourists. This represents a 7% increase over the same period in 2025.
Source: Travelers Today – Egypt Visa on Arrival Goes Digital at Cairo Airport