QR Codes for Travel: What You Need to Know in 2026
For many people, traveling in the post-pandemic era remains stressful: different countries have their own entry rules, document requirements, and control procedures. To simplify this process, more and more governments and tourism organizations are implementing QR codes for travel.
Today, a single scan is enough to access all key information in one place — from boarding passes and visas to medical certificates, tourist routes, and attraction tickets. QR codes have become a convenient tool for both travelers and government authorities, helping optimize processes and improve security, which is especially important for protecting personal data and ensuring the comfortable use of digital card.
From digital health certificates to electronic visas, QR codes are transforming the traditional travel experience. However, as with any digital technology, data security and the use of reliable solutions play a crucial role.
New Rules for Using QR Codes as Travel Passes
In 2026, governments and tourism authorities worldwide are increasingly using QR codes as digital travel passes. Many countries are introducing their own standards, and major airports are already using QR codes for registration, control, and passenger information.
The main goal of these new rules is to create a unified, convenient, and secure travel format while maintaining a high level of personal data protection.
Universal Standards
The use of QR codes in travel is regulated by international requirements aimed at standardizing formats and data.
These standards ensure that QR codes:
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are correctly scanned on different devices and platforms;
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contain key information such as the traveler’s name, flight details, and health status;
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are used in a unified format across different countries.
Security Measures
QR codes used as travel documents must be protected against forgery and fraud. This is achieved through:
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data encryption;
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unique digital signatures;
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authentication and verification mechanisms.
Data Privacy
One of the key requirements is the protection of personal information. Data related to a traveler’s identity and health status may be used solely for travel control purposes and must not be shared with third parties without consent.
Accessibility
QR codes must be accessible to all categories of travelers, including people with disabilities and those without smartphones. Many airports provide computers and printers that allow travelers to print QR codes on site.
In a number of international airports, special areas are equipped for online registration and printing of travel QR codes.
System Compatibility
Travel QR codes must work correctly with the systems used by airlines, airports, and border control authorities. This ensures fast scanning and seamless data processing across different countries and checkpoints.
Which Countries Use QR Codes for Travel and Tourism in 2026
In 2026, QR codes are actively used in tourism initiatives around the world. They make it possible to store and access important information in a convenient and secure format.
Brazil
In major tourist cities, QR codes are placed on streets, beaches, and historical sites. Scanning a code directs travelers to a page with information about the location, including historical facts, photos, videos, and other multimedia content.
Thailand
Tourism projects use QR codes to provide access to digital content that showcases the country’s cultural and historical heritage. Travelers receive unique digital materials that become part of a personalized travel experience.
Indonesia
The country uses a system in which QR codes confirm vaccination and health status. Travelers upload medical data and receive a QR code that is checked during domestic and international travel.
Spain
Despite the cancellation of mandatory entry QR codes, tourist sites continue to actively use them to improve service quality. QR codes are widely used in museums and historical complexes to provide reference information as well as audio and video content.
Hawaii
QR codes are widely used for ticket sales and to enhance the tourist experience. In museums and cultural spaces, they allow visitors to access additional information about exhibits and their history.
Philippines
A digital travel card with a QR code is being introduced to simplify immigration control. The document contains personal traveler data and is used to speed up entry procedures. The card is valid for several years and supports multiple entries.
QR Codes and Other Forms of Travel Passes: A Comparison
Physical Tickets
Paper tickets are easy to lose or damage, and their production and distribution require additional costs. QR codes eliminate the need for physical media and significantly speed up the boarding process.
Smart Cards
Transport cards are convenient but require physical contact with terminals, which can cause queues. QR codes are scanned faster and reduce service time.
Mobile Applications
Mobile apps are convenient but depend on internet connectivity. QR codes can be saved to a phone’s gallery or as a PDF and used even without an active internet connection.
Biometric Identification
Biometric technologies offer a high level of security but require expensive infrastructure and raise privacy concerns. QR codes remain a more accessible and cost-effective solution that does not require specialized equipment.