Egypt will phase out the traditional paper "passport card" used by travelers at airports, officials confirmed, in a move aimed at speeding up passenger processing and modernizing airport operations.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that the paper travel document, which passengers have been required to fill out manually upon entry and exit, will be fully eliminated by Feb. 1, 2026. During a transitional period, travelers may still encounter the old system at some checkpoints.
Minister Sameh El-Hefny described the decision as part of a broader plan to improve airport efficiency and align Egypt’s travel procedures with international standards. “This step addresses long-standing concerns about delays at immigration and enhances the overall experience for travelers,” he said.
Under the new system, immigration authorities will rely on electronic passport data stored in secure government databases, eliminating the need for handwritten forms. Officials said this will reduce queues and accelerate processing at busy terminals, including Cairo International Airport.
Airport and travel experts have welcomed the change, noting that many countries have already transitioned to digital systems linking passports directly to immigration controls. Analysts say this modernization could also improve security while making travel to Egypt smoother for international tourists.
The move is part of a wider package of airport upgrades, including expanded electronic visa services and improved baggage handling, aimed at boosting Egypt’s appeal as a global travel destination.
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