Can I get a visa on arrival in Egypt if I have a valid US tourist visa?

Who can get a visa on arrival in Egypt?

Egypt is a destination that provides visa on arrival (VoA) to the citizens of a few countries. For example, US citizens can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for a fee of around 25 USD, allowing a 30-day stay. This permits a 30 day stay.

However, having a US visa alone does not make you eligible for an Egyptian visa on arrival. For instance, Indian nationals and most other passport holders cannot get VOA in Egypt simply because they hold a US visa. Most countries are not granted theVisa on arrival policy in case of the US visa. Rather, nationality on your passport is the determinant factor.

Does holding a US visa help at all?

There is no legitimacy in being able to get entry with a valid US visa in some countries (e.g. Mexico, UAE or Turkey), but Egypt is not one such country. Egyptian authorities grant visas on arrival based on nationality, not on possession of a US visa. While US citizens can get VOA, other nationalities cannot obtain it merely because they hold a US tourist visa.

While not officially stated, holding a valid US visa may reflect a positive travel history, which could support your credibility during the e-visa application process. However, it does not guarantee faster approval or eligibility for visa on arrival.

Recommended option: Apply for an e-visa in advance

Even if you’re from a country that technically qualifies for a visa on arrival, Egyptian authorities recommend applying for an e-visa online in advance. Here's why:

• Faster processing at the airport
• Avoid risk of being denied entry on arrival
• Better for airline check-in (some airlines may ask to see a valid visa before boarding)

You can apply for the e-visa through the official Egyptian government website.The e-visa is typically processed within 2–5 business days and allows a 30-day stay in Egypt for tourism purposes.

Cost: Around $25 USD (approx. ₹2,000 INR)

Alternative: Apply at the Egyptian embassy or consulate

You can either visit the nearest embassy or consulate of Egypt, or a non-online application, (unless you are ineligible for the online application that will come in the form of the e-visa). This is normally a time consuming process (can take up to 5-10 working days) and requires more paper work with the following:

• Validity of 6 months passport
• Passport-sized photos
• Application of visa form
• Hotels & flights reservations
• Evidence of funds sufficient

In conclusion

A valid US tourist visa does not grant you visa-on-arrival in Egypt unless your nationality itself is among those eligible for VOA. In order to prevent inconveniences at the airport or at the check-in, it is highly advisable that one decides to seek an e-visa before travel or consults the Egyptian embassy in one of the countries on the most recent visa requirements.

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