Egypt Eliminates Paper Immigration Forms for Travelers

Egypt has officially phased out the traditional paper arrival and departure cards at all international airports. The Ministry of Civil Aviation completed the nationwide rollout in early February 2026, replacing the manual system with a fully digital process. Immigration officers now verify traveler information using electronic passport data and Advance Passenger Information (API) submitted by airlines before takeoff.

This transition streamlines border control at major hubs like Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm El-Sheikh. By removing the need for physical landing cards, the government aims to reduce congestion and human error. Travelers can expect passport control processing times to be 20% to 40% faster than under the previous system.

Who is affected

The change applies to every international traveler entering or exiting the country. This includes:

• Digital nomads and expats on long-term residency visas.
• Short-term tourists and business visitors.
• Egyptian residents returning from abroad.

For remote workers, the digital shift makes frequent border crossings more efficient, supporting a lifestyle of regional travel without the repetitive paperwork of the past.

Practical steps for travelers

To ensure a smooth entry, travelers must hold a valid passport with a scannable chip. Since the system relies on airline data, ensure your booking information matches your passport exactly.

While the paper cards are gone, the visa requirements remain the same. You should still apply for an e-visa at least seven days before your trip through the official portal. At the airport, simply present your passport at the desk or use the expanding network of e-gates if you are a frequent flyer or eligible user.

Stay updated on the latest nomad news to see how these digital upgrades impact your next stay. Read our full Egypt guide for the complete picture.