Visa requirements for Egypt

As of 2025, citizens of the following countries can enter Egypt without a visa for specified durations:​

• 6 months: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
• 3 months: Hong Kong, Jordan (with specific passport conditions), Macao
• Indefinite stay: Palestinian Authority (with certain conditions)

The Visa on Arrival is a convenient option for travelers and can be obtained at the airport upon arrival in Egypt. This type of visa lasts 30 days and costs approximately $25 USD (cash only). However, it should not be forgotten that the lines may be long, especially during the busy season, and this may delay entry into the country.

This includes travelers from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most EU countries, Brazil,  Argentina, China, India, and Thailand. Travelers should have a passport valid for at least six months and proof of onward travel.

However, visa policies can change, so it’s recommended to confirm the latest entry requirements with the Egyptian embassy or official sources before planning your trip.
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You can obtain a visa on arrival at several international airports and border crossings in Egypt, like Cairo International Airport, Hurghada International Airport, Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, Luxor International Airport, Aswan International Airport and Port Said.

E-Visa is the best option for those who want to do everything before travelling. You can apply online through the official website of the Egyptian government. This method is convenient and will help you avoid long queues at the airport.

The e-Visa is also valid for 30 days and costs approximately $25. To apply, you need to fill out an online form, submit your digital photo and a scanned copy of your passport, and pay by credit card. Approval usually takes between 3-7 business days; so make sure you apply in advance of your trip. This one the method I use (I did it myself) and everything went smoothly.

Application Process:

• Visit the official portal: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg
• Complete the online application
• Pay the fee using a credit or debit card
• Receive the e-visa via email

If you plan to stay in Egypt for an extended period (more than 30 days), you will need a Residency Visa or a Tourist Visa Extension.

The Residency visa is designed for long-term stays and is suitable for various purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification. You should apply for this visa through the Egyptian consulate or embassy in your home country or, in some cases, directly in Egypt. Be sure to check the latest requirements and procedures with the nearest Egyptian diplomatic mission. This also applies for people seeking a Re-entry visa.

For the Tourist Visa Extension, initially, you can enter Egypt with a tourist visa valid for up to 30 days. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension of your tourist visa. This can typically be done through the Egyptian Immigration Authority or at the local Passport and Immigration office in Egypt. Extensions are usually granted for an additional 30 days, but policies can vary.

Before examining the specific requirements, it is important to understand that the visa process for Egypt is relatively simple compared to other destinations. It is good news for travelers that the Egyptian government has paved the way to promote tourism in recent years. But even if the procedure exists, it is necessary to comply with all the requirements of the letter.

A small mistake or omission can cause your visa to be delayed or rejected, which can disrupt your plans. So make sure everything is in order before you start applying, and contact the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your country if you have any questions about specific requirements depending on your nationality.
Regardless of the type of visa you choose, you will need:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to Egypt
• A passport-type photo, for the visa on arrival
• Payment of visa fee, which is currently around 25 USD
• Proof of accommodation in Egypt
• Travel itinerary

As of 2025, travelers arriving directly to Luxor and Aswan airports during the summer months (May to October) can benefit from a visa-free entry initiative aimed at boosting tourism during the hot season.

Obtaining your Egypt visa is the first step to enjoying everything this fascinating country has to offer. To make your experience as smooth as possible, it’s important to keep in mind some additional tips that can make your visit as hassle-free as possible. Remember that planning and preparation is important and although the visa process is simple, it is always better to proceed step by step.

• Apply for your visa 7 days before your travel.
• Please ensure that all information in your application is correct.
• Make sure you have a copy of your e-visa with you when you arrive in Egypt.
• Tourist visa is usually valid for 30 days.
• If you plan to stay longer, you can extend your visa in Egypt.

• Sinai Peninsula: Travelers entering via the Taba border can obtain a free 14-day visa, valid only for the Sinai region. To explore beyond Sinai, a standard visa is required.
• Transit Passengers: Egypt offers a 96-hour free transit visa for travelers with layovers, allowing short visits without a full tourist visa.