Egypt to launch new e-visa system in August to hit 30 million tourism target

Egypt is set to introduce a new electronic visa system in August as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and meet its ambitious goal of welcoming 30 million visitors annually by 2030. Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy revealed the plan during a televised address, confirming that the system will replace traditional visa stamps with dynamic QR code-based entries. This upgrade aims to streamline the visitor experience while enhancing operational efficiency at border checkpoints. The new e-visa system will enable travelers from 118 countries to apply for digital entry permits up to 48 hours prior to departure. These applications can be submitted through the official website, authorized travel agencies, or local hospitality providers within Egypt. Upon arrival, visitors will be able to complete their check-in process using mobile payments or self-service kiosks at major airports, according to reports from RT Arabic. This shift is designed to reduce wait times and improve the overall traveler experience. Fathy emphasized that the updated framework will differentiate between visa-on-arrival privileges and pre-approved e-visas, allowing most administrative tasks to be completed before departure. This change is expected to ease congestion at entry points and enhance the convenience of international travel to Egypt. The minister also outlined that expanding access to additional nationalities requires thorough assessments involving security protocols, tourism data, and diplomatic agreements. Currently, between 170 and 180 nations enjoy varying levels of visa flexibility when visiting the country. In parallel, Egypt is actively increasing its accommodation infrastructure to support the projected rise in tourist numbers. As of now, the country has around 235,000 hotel rooms available, with several thousand under construction. Industry experts estimate that reaching 500,000 rooms will be essential to accommodate the 30 million annual visitors envisioned by 2030. This expansion reflects the government's commitment to strengthening its position as a global tourism destination. The initiative aligns with broader governmental efforts to rejuvenate the tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in generating foreign exchange and driving economic activity. With the introduction of the e-visa system, Egypt seeks to modernize its approach to international travel, making it more accessible and efficient for a wider range of visitors. This transformation underscores the country’s determination to remain competitive in the global tourism landscape. The rollout of the e-visa system marks another step in Egypt’s ongoing campaign to attract more international tourists. By leveraging technology and streamlining bureaucratic processes, the government hopes to create a more seamless and appealing environment for travelers. As preparations for the system’s launch progress, officials continue to emphasize the importance of balancing accessibility with security, ensuring that the reforms contribute positively to both the economy and public safety.