Egypt modernises its visa
Egypt is one of our travellers' great classics, and it has just taken an important step to speed up entry into the country. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has launched a new digital system for the Visa on Arrival. Here is what you need to know, with information verified as of August 2026.
What has changed
Since 1 August 2026, a QR code replaces the physical visa sticker in the passport. In this first phase the system applies exclusively at Cairo International Airport (across all arrival terminals), as a pilot. Other airports continue, for now, with the traditional paper visa.
Coexistence with the paper visa
During this initial phase, the digital visa coexists with the traditional paper visa, to ensure a gradual, trouble-free transition. The Egyptian authorities will announce later how long this adaptation period will last. In practice, if you travel now you may use either system.
How much it costs
The official fee for the Visa on Arrival is now USD 36, broken down as follows:
- USD 30 for the visa itself.
- USD 6 for the issuance and management of the new digital system.
This is a USD 6 increase on the previous system. The amount covers the official fees only and does not include any handling charges if the visa is processed through an agency on the traveller's behalf.
How to obtain the QR code
The QR code can be obtained before travelling through several channels: your travel agency, the official app, the dedicated website or the self-service kiosks at the airport. You then simply present it — on your phone or printed — alongside your passport at immigration.
Luxor and Aswan: the visa is still free
Good news if your route enters from the south, as many Nile cruises do. The new measure does not affect the existing visa exemption for travellers entering Egypt through Luxor or Aswan airports on flights operated by Egyptian airlines. This exemption remains in place until 31 October 2026, so those passengers continue to enjoy a free visa.
What about the e-Visa?
Alongside the visa on arrival, the electronic visa is still available and can be arranged conveniently before travelling on the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg. There are two options: single entry (USD 30, valid 3 months, stay of up to 30 days) and multiple entry (USD 65, valid 6 months). You upload a copy of your passport, pay by card and it is best to carry the approval printed.
Requirements for travellers
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. It is advisable to carry the visa — QR or e-visa — in printed form as well. As always, the final admission decision rests with the border authorities.
What this means for your journey with Luxury Atelier
On a tailor-made journey the visa is just one more detail we take care of for you: we arrange the QR code in advance so you land and skip the visa desk queue, which in high season could exceed an hour. And if your itinerary enters through Luxor or Aswan, we make the most of the current exemption. You only need to enjoy the Nile, the pyramids and the temples.
Information verified in August 2026 from the official notice issued by our ground operators in Egypt. Some operational details are still being finalised during the pilot phase; always confirm the conditions with your specialist before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
When does Egypt's new digital visa start?
On 1 August 2026, for now only at Cairo International Airport, as a pilot phase.
How much is the visa on arrival in 2026?
USD 36 in total: USD 30 for the visa plus USD 6 for the new digital system's management.
Do I need a visa if I enter through Luxor or Aswan?
No. Until 31 October 2026 the visa exemption remains for those arriving via Luxor or Aswan on flights operated by Egyptian airlines.
Can I still use the paper visa?
Yes. During the pilot phase, the digital and paper visas coexist.
About the author
Elena González Teruel
Director of Luxury Atelier by Presstour. Decades of quietly opening doors others can't — Asia, boutique cruises, ultra-luxury hotels.
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