Egypt Ditches Paper Visas, Goes Fully Digital with QR Codes

Egypt is officially moving to a fully digital visa system, scrapping the traditional paper sticker in favor of QR codes. Starting August 1, the new system will be tested at Cairo International Airport, according to a letter from Egypt’s Chamber of Tourism Companies and Agencies reported by the Russian Association of Tour Operators.

Once the trial period wraps up, the QR-based entry process will roll out to all airports nationwide, including popular Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Instead of the old paper stamp glued into passports upon arrival, travelers will receive a QR code that can be obtained through the official website, a mobile app, or self-service kiosks in arrival halls. The visa fee, including all taxes and charges, is set at $36 (roughly 2,800 rubles).

Tour operators can also pre-arrange the QR code for their clients up to 48 hours before arrival, streamlining the process for group travelers. The shift comes as Russian tourists topped the visitor rankings for Sharm el-Sheikh, highlighting the importance of a smooth entry system for one of Egypt’s key tourism markets.