Egypt Abolishes “Passport Card” Completely at Airports; Decision Takes Effect End of January

Cairo – Sudanhorizon – Agencies

Egyptian Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hanafi, announced the complete abolition of the paper “passport card” designated for arriving and departing passengers at airports, with the decision set to come into full effect by the end of the current January. This step comes as part of a move toward comprehensive digitalization of the aviation sector.

The minister explained, during a televised interview aired last night (Sunday), that this measure is part of the state’s plan to facilitate travel and arrival procedures at Egyptian airports and reduce waiting times at passport control gates.

El-Hanafi confirmed that the alternative digital system is now fully ready for operation, as reliance will be placed entirely on electronically recorded passport data, ending dependence on traditional paper forms that travelers were previously required to fill out manually.

The minister added that this development comes within the framework of comprehensive efforts to improve services provided to travelers and tourists, noting that the Cabinet, during its meeting (Sunday) chaired by Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, discussed updates on the pilot implementation of the integrated system for issuing electronic visas.

This decision follows a series of recent updates witnessed at Egyptian airports, including the expansion of electronic passage gates and the development of security systems and connectivity systems with the Passport Authority.

February is expected to see the full implementation of the new system across all Egyptian international airports, starting from Cairo International Airport and extending to tourist airports in Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.

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