What is the tourist visa policy of Egypt?
Egypt follows a straightforward tourist visa policy that welcomes millions of visitors each year, while prioritizing national security with the aim of helping some people travel without compromising on their own security. Knowing the tourist visa requirements in Egypt can assist you in organizing your trip without any hitches and getting into problems with entry.
Visa-free entry and visa on arrival
Egypt offers a visa on arrival to citizens of many Western countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several EU member states. It is a convenient choice as it enables the travelers to get their visa at the Egyptian airports when they land.
The visa on arrival costs around 25 USD and allows a single stay of up to 30 days. Payment is usually made in US dollars, though some airports may also accept euros or British pounds. Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh and Luxor have major international airports, which offer visa on arrival services.
Only a few nationalities enjoy full visa-free access for limited purposes or durations, and this list is subject to change.
Egypt e-Visa system
Egypt provides an electronic visa (e-Visa) system where the traveler applies online in advance before traveling. The Egypt e-Visa has considerable benefits:
- Anywhere you have access to the internet you can apply.
- Avoid queuing at the airport and delays at processing.
- Approval is typically granted within 3 to 7 business days
- Print your visa approval and present it upon arrival.
The e-Visa costs 25 USD for a single-entry visa (30-day stay) or 60 USD for a multiple-entry visa valid for six months, allowing stays of up to 30 days per visit. There are processing fees as well. Use the official visa portal of Egypt to escape internet fraud sites that charge high fees.
Sinai Peninsula special permit
A 15-day Sinai-only entry stamp can be given out to travelers that enter through Sharm El-Sheikh, and only stay in the South Sinai areas. This is a travel permit to the regions of Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba.
In case you wish to go beyond the South Sinai- visiting Cairo, Luxor or any other destinations within Egypt, then you need to buy a complete Egyptian tourist visa instead.
Standard visa requirements
To obtain an Egyptian tourist visa, you need:
- Valid passport of at least six months of validity.
- Print your visa approval and present it upon arrival on the passport.
- Return or onward ticket (probably not enforced but can be requested)
- Evidence of place of stay (hotel reservations)
- Sufficient funds for your stay
Visa extensions
Tourist visas may be extended once, usually for up to 30 days, at the Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration office in Nasr City (Cairo) or other regional immigration offices. Fees and duration may vary. Extension fees vary and are set by the local immigration offices at the time of application. You should apply prior to your existing visa.
Overstaying your visa incurs a fine, which must be paid at the airport upon departure. The amount depends on the duration of the overstay.
Restricted nationalities
Nationals of certain countries — including most African and some Asian and Middle Eastern nations — must apply for a visa in advance through an Egyptian embassy or consulate. The citizens of some African, Asian, and Middle East countries have some extra conditions or are not able to acquire a visa on arrival.
Current entry requirements
Beyond visa requirements, Egypt may require:
- Travel insurance (recommended but not mandatory)
- Health documentation (varies based on global health situations)
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from endemic countries
Egypt's tourist visa policy balances accessibility with security, making it easy for most international visitors to explore this historic destination.
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