Egypt to Launch Digital Visa on Arrival With QR Code at Cairo Airport in August 2026
Egypt is replacing paper visa-on-arrival stickers with QR codes at Cairo International Airport from August 2026. Travellers will be able to apply online, through kiosks, or via a mobile app before entering the country.
Egypt is getting ready to alter the airport visa application process for visitors. Eligible travelers will soon receive a digital visa with a QR code instead of a physical visa sticker in their passport.
On May 13, 2026, the Egyptian government announced that the new system will formally debut in August 2026 at all Cairo International Airport terminals.
The action is a component of Egypt's larger strategy to streamline airport operations and shorten wait times for travelers.
Egypt's Arrival Visa Will Be Digital
Egypt's visa-on-arrival program is not eliminated under the new system. Rather, it modifies how travelers perceive it.
Currently, eligible travelers entering Egypt typically purchase a visa sticker at the airport and insert it into their passport. After completing the process electronically, travelers will obtain a QR code under the new digital system. At passport check, immigration agents will scan the QR code to confirm the visa.
According to Egypt, this should expedite airport arrivals and simplify the process for travelers.
The Operation of the New QR Code Visa System
Before or after landing, travelers who are qualified for an Egyptian visa upon arrival can apply through several digital methods. The government states that applications can be finished by:
Airport self-service kiosks
The official website for visas
A mobile application
Travel companies with approval
After entering their information and online paying the visa fee, travelers will obtain a QR code that is associated with their visa.
Additionally, travelers may be able to obtain the digital visa up to 48 hours prior to arrival, according to authorities.
First, Cairo Airport; Later, Other Airports
In August 2026, the system will launch at all Cairo International Airport terminals before progressively spreading to other airports throughout Egypt.
In late 2025, Egypt tested a portion of the project at Terminal 2. The nation is now headed toward a complete public launch, according to the most recent declaration.
Crucially, this is not the e-Visa for Egypt.
The proposed digital visa-on-arrival system should not be confused with Egypt's current e-Visa system.Through the official government webpage, qualified travelers can apply online for Egypt's e-Visa prior to departure. For travelers who are already qualified to obtain a visa after arriving in Egypt, the new QR code method just modifies the visa-on-arrival procedure.
Things Travelers Need to Know
The following are important things that travelers should keep in mind:
In August 2026, Egypt will introduce a new digital visa-on-arrival system.
Cairo International Airport will host the initial rollout.
Instead of a traditional visa sticker, eligible travelers will receive a QR code.
Applications can be submitted using a mobile app, kiosks, or the internet.
The system does not alter the requirements for obtaining a visa.
Later forward, more airports in Egypt are anticipated to join the system.
This might speed up and significantly reduce the stress of airport arrivals for frequent visitors to Egypt, particularly during peak travel seasons.
