Starting August 1, 2026, Egypt implemented a new electronic visa-on-arrival system aimed at streamlining entry procedures and enhancing the tourist experience. This initiative is part of Egypt’s broader digital transformation strategy and is expected to support the country’s vital tourism sector by making visa processing more efficient.
Previously, visitors from over 70 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and European Union member states, could receive a single-entry sticker visa upon arrival at Egyptian airports. Foreign nationals holding valid residency permits from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries with at least six months of validity also qualify for visas on arrival.
The new system replaces the traditional paper visa sticker with a QR code, allowing visitors to bypass certain manual steps. Tourists who obtain the QR code can proceed directly to immigration counters for entry processing, reducing waiting times. During an initial pilot phase, the electronic visa system will operate alongside the existing paper-based system to ensure a smooth and secure transition.
Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, noted that this first phase is focused on testing the system’s efficiency before expanding it to other airports and entry points throughout the country.
Travelers seeking the electronic visa have three options to apply: downloading the “Visa On Arrival” mobile application, using self-service kiosks located at Cairo International Airport, or applying through the official website “visaonarrival.gov.eg.” Applicants are required to provide personal details such as passport number, nationality, arrival date, and airport of entry, then pay the associated fees. Once processed, the electronic visa QR code is sent via email and valid for seven days from issuance. Visitors can obtain the QR code before departure, en route, or upon arrival at Cairo International Airport.
The electronic visa is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days. It is designated specifically for tourism purposes and does not cover business travel. The new system also facilitates group visas, enabling accredited tour operators to issue QR codes for organized tours to expedite entry for multiple travelers.
A fee of $36 applies for the service through the mobile app, in addition to the standard visa-on-arrival charge.
This move toward digital visa issuance reflects Egypt’s efforts to modernize its immigration processes and bolster its position as a preferred destination for international tourists.