Does my Covid-19 rapid antigen or PCR test need a QR code to enter Egypt at Cairo International Airport?
My Covid-19 rapid antigen test from February, 2022, the last time I entered Egypt. Note that this test does not include a QR code, and I was never told I needed one, even though it is technically required.
I have been asked this question by so many travelers, that I figured it was time to dedicate a blog post to the topic. So, let’s chat QR codes, and if you need one on your Covid-19 PCR or Rapid Antigen test in order to enter Egypt.
But, before we start, did you know that I make customized itineraries (recommending all your sightseeing activities, the best hotels for your budget, all the restaurants to eat at each day, and more), connect travelers with vetted and trusted local guides and companies, and even lead private tours myself? Send me an email today at egyptadventurestravel@gmail.com and let’s chat about your Egypt adventure!
The Requirements
First, the official requirements, as stated by the Egyptian government, taken from the Egypt Tourism Authority.
Before travelling to Egypt, you must also be prepared with one of the following:
• A vaccination certificate that has a valid QR code or is certified from the Egyptian embassy/consulate at the country of departure. The vaccine received must be approved by the WHO and the Egyptian Drug Authority, and you must have received the second dose for vaccinations requiring two doses (Moderna, AstraZeneca, Sputnik V, Sinovac, and Sinopharm) or the first dose for vaccinations requiring only one dose (Johnson & Johnson and Sputnik light) at least 14 days prior to entering Egypt.
• If a vaccination certificate is unavailable, you must submit a certified negative PCR, Antigen Rapid Test, or ID NOW test result that was performed at your country of departure a maximum of 72 hours prior to the departure of your direct flight to Egypt.
Now, the requirements, as stated by the U.S. Embassy in Egypt:
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes.
All passengers travelling to Egypt (including Egyptians) must be in possession of negative PCR test certificate for COVID-19 with Quick Response (QR) code, taken at a maximum of 72 hours before their flight departure time.
It is reported that the Government of Egypt will also allow travelers to enter with proof of a WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccination. The vaccination certificate must comply with the rules of the issuing country and contain a QR code. Note: most U.S. vaccination cards, including those issued by the Centers for Disease Control, do not include a QR code required by the Government of Egypt, and, as a result most U.S. vaccination cards are not accepted by Egyptian authorities.
From the UK Government website:
If you’re not fully vaccinated, you’ll need to show proof of a negative PCR test, or either a COVID-19 ID NOW or rapid antigen test (taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in Egypt). Proof of COVID-19 recovery will not be accepted. See information on getting a test before entry.
All variations of COVID-19 test certificates must be issued by an accredited laboratory in the country of issue, must have the date and time of sample withdrawal, and must be stamped or have a QR code.
As you can see, all of these sources state that a QR code is needed on the Covid-19 test, but…
Anecdotal Evidence
I have personally entered Egypt three times with Covid-19 tests (PCR and antigen), and none of them have had QR codes on them. I even tried using a test result without a QR code and purposefully did not show my CDC vaccination card or QR code with VaxYes, just to see if I got in, and I did.
I always fly Delta/KLM/AirFrance when going from the USA to Egypt.
However, I have heard from clients traveling on EgyptAir, Qatar, and Emirates that they were turned away at check-in at their US-based airport because their Covid-19 test did not have a QR code, or that they had to get a costly Covid-19 test at the airport, in order to get one with a QR code
Having some street food in Cairo! This trip, I entered Egypt using just a rapid antigen test, with no QR code. But I flew Delta/KLM/AirFrance, and they seem less strict.
The Bottom Line
Having a QR code on your Covid-19 test (or using a proof of vaccination with a QR code you get for free through VaxYes) is an absolute requirement to get into Egypt, but that does not mean that they always enforce this rule. It seems to depend most on the airline you are flying, and the official you get at the departure airport and upon arrival in Cairo.
Have you traveled to Egypt recently? What Covid-19 paperwork did you use to enter the country?
