Egypt has rolled out a new QR code-based tourist visa system at Cairo International Airport, allowing international visitors to complete the visa process digitally before travelling or upon arrival.
The move is part of Egypt’s ongoing efforts to modernise border procedures, reduce processing times, and improve the overall experience for tourists. Officials said the digital initiative supports the country’s broader strategy to boost tourism and attract millions more visitors in the coming years.
According to the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, nationals from 118 countries are currently eligible for visas on arrival, while citizens of around 170 to 180 countries benefit from different visa facilitation measures. He said any further expansion of eligibility would depend on security evaluations, tourism priorities and reciprocal arrangements with relevant government bodies.
The new system, launched on August 1, allows eligible travellers to obtain tourist visas through an official online platform, a government mobile application, or self-service kiosks available in airport arrival areas.
The upgraded process replaces traditional visa stickers with digitally issued QR codes, helping reduce processing times, ease congestion at airports, and provide a smoother arrival experience for visitors.
Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, said the initiative is part of a wider plan to strengthen the country’s tourism sector by expanding digital services and improving immigration procedures.
Under the new framework, eligible tourists can secure their digital entry permits up to 48 hours before departure through the official platform, authorised international travel agencies or Egyptian tour operators. Visitors arriving in Egypt can then complete the process using electronic payment options or airport self-service kiosks.
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