Pilot visa-on-arrival system at Cairo airport starts in June

Ahram Online , Friday 16 May 2025

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy announced Thursday that the pilot phase of a new visa-on-arrival system will begin at Cairo International Airport in mid-June.

File Photo: Cairo International Airport. Photo courtesy of Cairo Airport company website.
File Photo: Cairo International Airport. Photo courtesy of Cairo Airport company website.

 

The announcement was made during a meeting with representatives from all relevant ministries and the company implementing the project, according to the Egyptian cabinet,

The new visa system will offer multiple options for travellers to obtain emergency visas upon arrival through a QR code.

Minister Fathy said the visa payment will be made electronically through self-service kiosks at airport terminals or via a dedicated mobile application.

The new system, which will help reduce congestion at airport arrival areas, is part of the country’s broader strategy to improve the tourism experience and streamline entry procedures for international visitors.

It aligns with Egypt’s national efforts to enhance the quality of tourism services and accommodate the growing influx of international tourists.

The tourism ministry will coordinate closely with all concerned authorities during the coming period to monitor the efficacy of the pilot phase in preparation for expanding the system to all Egyptian airports.

In April, the government extended its free 96-hour transit visa programme for another year, with the new expiration date set for April 2026.

The government has launched a national strategy to develop the sector and attract 30 million visitors by 2028.

In 2024, Egypt received 15.7 million tourists, generating $14.1 billion in revenue, exceeding the previous record of 14.9 million visitors set in 2023.

Short link: