Egypt has launched a new QR code-based tourist visa system at Cairo International Airport to modernise border procedures and help attract 30 million tourists annually by 2030.
The system took effect on August 1 and allows visitors to obtain tourist visas digitally before travel or on arrival. Travellers can buy visas online, through an official mobile application or from self-service kiosks in airport arrival halls.
Authorities said the new process will reduce waiting times, simplify entry procedures and improve the arrival experience by replacing traditional visa stickers with digitally issued QR codes.
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy said the system is part of a broader plan to strengthen Egypt’s tourism sector through digital services and faster immigration processing.
Under the new framework, eligible visitors can generate digital entry permits up to 48 hours before departure through the official platform, accredited international travel agencies or Egyptian tour operators.
Travellers can also complete the process on arrival through electronic payment methods or self-service kiosks at Egyptian airports.
Fathy said the system separates visas issued on arrival from pre-approved electronic visas, allowing visitors to complete most formalities before boarding and cutting processing time at entry points.
He said nationals of 118 countries are currently eligible for visas on arrival, while 170 to 180 nationalities benefit from different visa facilitation measures.
He added that any further expansion of eligibility will depend on security reviews, tourism needs and reciprocal arrangements with relevant authorities.
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