Egypt to replace visa stickers with QR codes at Cairo airport from August 1; here's what Indian travellers should know

Egypt is set to digitise its visa-on-arrival process with the launch of a new QR code-based system at Cairo International Airport from August 1, 2026, as part of a broader plan to modernise entry procedures for international travellers.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities said the pilot will cover all arrival terminals at Cairo International Airport before expanding to other airports across the country in phases.

The new system replaces the traditional paper visa sticker with a digital Visa QR Code that border officers will scan along with a traveler's passport. Officials said the move is aimed at speeding up immigration clearance and reducing paperwork.


During the pilot period, both the existing paper visa and the new digital system will operate simultaneously. Once the pilot concludes, the QR code will become the only visa-on-arrival format.

How the new QR code system works

Travellers can obtain the Visa QR Code through:

• Egypt's official online visa portal
• The official mobile application
• Self-service kiosks in Cairo Airport's arrival halls

The QR code can be generated before departure, during the flight, after landing or by a travel agency on behalf of the traveller. It remains valid for 48 hours from the time it is issued.

The total cost is $36, comprising the existing $30 visa fee and a $6 digital issuance fee.

Are Indians eligible? Here's what changes—and what doesn't

The announcement does not expand visa-on-arrival eligibility. It only changes how eligible travellers receive their visa.

Indian passport holders are not automatically eligible for Egypt's visa-on-arrival facility.

Under Egypt's current rules, Indian citizens may qualify for a visa on arrival if they meet specific eligibility conditions, including holding a valid and previously used visa from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom or a Schengen member state. Some travellers holding valid GCC residence permits may also qualify under existing rules.

Indian travellers who do not meet these conditions are generally required to obtain an Egyptian visa before travelling, typically through Egypt's e-Visa system or an Egyptian diplomatic mission.

Nationwide rollout planned

Following the Cairo pilot, Egypt plans to extend the QR code-based visa-on-arrival system to additional international airports in phases. The ministry said rollout dates for other airports will be announced in advance and urged airlines and travel agencies to inform passengers about the new process.

Source: Egyptian Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities. Eligibility information based on Egypt's existing visa policy for Indian nationals.