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Egypt is a popular tourist destination, and many travellers opt to obtain their visas on arrival at Egyptian airports. This option is available to citizens of most nationalities, although there are some exceptions, and the rules may change from time to time. The visa on arrival costs $25 USD in cash and allows tourists to stay in Egypt for up to 30 days. The process is relatively straightforward, with kiosks in the arrival hall before reaching immigration counters. However, travellers should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak tourist seasons. An alternative option is to obtain an e-visa before departure, which can be done online and also allows for a stay of up to 30 days.
Visa at Egypt Airport
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa Availability | Yes, at approved airports, including Cairo International Airport |
| Visa Type | Single-entry tourist visa, valid for up to 30 days |
| Visa Fee | Approximately $25 in cash, in US dollars. A multiple-entry visa costs approximately $60 |
| Payment Options | Cash only. Egyptian officials prefer US dollars, but may accept British pounds or euros |
| Processing Time | A few minutes to complete the application form |
| Requirements | A passport valid for at least 6 months |
| Other Benefits | No need to queue at airport visa counters; can exchange currency at the same time |
| Alternatives | eVisa, obtained online in advance |
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What You'll Learn
The visa fee is $25 in cash, in US dollars
The visa fee for a single-entry 30-day tourist visa at Egyptian airports is $25 in cash. US dollars are preferred, but you may be able to pay in other currencies, such as British pounds or euros. It is important to have the exact change in US dollars to avoid delays and complications at the airport. The bank teller who sells you the visa can also exchange foreign currency for Egyptian pounds, allowing you to complete two tasks at once.
It is recommended to have crisp, new bills with no folds, tears, creases, or markings of any kind. The bank teller may reject bills that have any flaws. The visa on arrival is a convenient option for last-minute travellers, as it does not require advance planning and offers immediate processing. However, it is important to note that not every nationality can buy their visa upon arrival, and the eligibility criteria may change over time. Therefore, it is advisable to check with your embassy to ensure that your country is eligible for a visa on arrival in Egypt.
The visa on arrival is available at approved kiosks in the arrival hall of approved airports before reaching the immigration counters. At Cairo International Airport, the banks are located on the right side after descending the escalator. The process is relatively straightforward, and there are YouTube videos available that outline the steps. After purchasing the visa, you will receive a sticker that you must take to passport control. Do not put the sticker in your passport, as the passport control officer will stamp the visa with your date of arrival.
While the visa on arrival offers convenience and flexibility, it may result in longer wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons. In contrast, obtaining an e-visa in advance can help prevent delays and provide peace of mind before travelling. The e-visa allows you to complete and submit the application from the comfort of your home, avoiding the need to queue at airport visa counters. Additionally, the e-visa is accepted at air, land, and sea borders, making it a more versatile option.
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You can also get an e-visa online in advance
While it is possible to obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports, you can also get an e-visa online in advance. This option offers several benefits. Firstly, it saves you time at the airport, as you can proceed directly to passport control or immigration without having to queue at the visa counter. Obtaining an e-visa in advance can also help to prevent delays, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To apply for an e-visa, you need to visit the correct website and complete the application form, which only takes a few minutes. After your application has been processed, the visa will be sent to you via email. It is recommended that you print out a paper copy of the e-visa to present at Egyptian border control. You may also need to present a copy of your hotel booking confirmation or travel itinerary showing your accommodations in Egypt.
Another advantage of the e-visa is that it allows you to pay securely online by card, whereas the visa on arrival must be paid for in cash. Additionally, with an e-visa, you can complete and submit the application from the comfort of your home, rather than having to fill out paperwork at the airport.
It is important to note that the eligibility criteria and application processes differ significantly for the e-visa and visa on arrival. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the latest requirements and stay up-to-date with any changes.
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You must submit a support letter from a travel agency
To enter Egypt, the requirements vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. For example, British passport holders can stay for up to 15 days at certain resorts without a visa and will get a free entry permission stamp on arrival. However, if you plan to stay longer or travel outside the resorts, you must obtain a visa.
For a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa, most travelers can simply purchase one on arrival at Egyptian airports for approximately $25 in cash (US dollars are preferred, but some ports may accept British pounds or euros). This can be done at a kiosk in the arrival hall before reaching the immigration counters.
However, to obtain this 30-day visa, travelers of certain nationalities must submit a support letter from a travel agency. This includes Indian, Chinese, Bosnian, and Kosovan citizens. This letter can be obtained from travel agents at the border, but fees may vary. It is important to note that not all nationalities can buy their visa upon arrival, so it is recommended to check with your embassy for the current requirements for your country.
If you are a US citizen, you may also need to obtain a visa before traveling to Egypt if you have a diplomatic or official passport for work-related travel. Additionally, work or study visas for US citizens must be obtained in advance. Military personnel arriving on commercial flights must meet the regular passport and visa requirements.
To apply for an Egyptian tourist visa through an agency, you may be required to provide the following documents:
- A covering letter on company letterhead addressed to the Visa Officer at the Embassy/Consulate of The Arab Republic of Egypt
- A six-month bank statement with a bank seal, an authorized signature, and a balance of at least 50,000 (currency unspecified)
- A return ticket with a travel date at least three working days after submission
- A duly filled and signed visa application form
- Two photographs with a white background (35x45mm, 80% face)
- A personal covering letter from the father with relevant details
- A new invitation letter with an Egypt address and contact details
- A father's bank statement (if applicable)
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US citizens with visa issues may apply at an Egyptian embassy before travelling
US citizens can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for approximately $25 in cash. A multiple-entry visa costs approximately $60. However, US citizens with visa issues or concerns about obtaining a visa on arrival may prefer to apply for a visa at an Egyptian embassy or consulate before travelling. Work or study visas must be obtained before travelling, and US citizens with a diplomatic or official passport must obtain an official visa in advance for work-related travel. The Egyptian Embassy in Washington, D.C. currently requires at least 3 weeks to process official and diplomatic visa requests, even with a Department of State expedite letter. All official travellers must submit their visa requests and passports to the Egyptian Embassy well before their trip.
US citizens who wish to work in Egypt must obtain work permits and business visas before arrival. These permits must be obtained through the employer and allow the holder to live in the country. US citizens on tourist visas are not permitted to work.
US citizens with visa issues may also consider the following:
- The purpose of the intended travel will determine what type of visa is required.
- US citizens do not need a US visa for travel to the United States. For short-term visits to the US, citizens can go directly to the online application (form DS-160).
- The American Center Cairo (ACC) is the US Embassy's primary cultural and educational centre in Egypt.
It is important to note that having a visa does not guarantee entry into Egypt. Egyptian immigration officials have occasionally denied entry to travellers without explanation. Additionally, travellers should be aware of security concerns in Egypt, including the threat of terrorism and potential targeting of diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, and transportation hubs. US citizens have been detained for participating in protests and posting content on social media that is perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies.
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Israeli citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for South Sinai
There are several ways for Israeli citizens to travel to South Sinai, Egypt. The most common way is to first travel to the southern Israeli city of Eilat and then cross the border into Egypt at the Taba border crossing. It is important to note that travel visas are not issued at the Taba border, and travelers must have Egyptian tourist visas before crossing the border. These visas can be obtained on arrival at Egyptian airports, such as Cairo International Airport, for approximately $25 in cash (US dollars). The kiosks at the airport also serve as currency exchange centers, so travelers can exchange money and purchase their visas at the same time. The visa process typically takes around 15-30 minutes.
It is recommended to have crisp, new bills with no folds, tears, or markings when purchasing a visa at the airport. Additionally, travelers should be aware that not all nationalities can buy their visas upon arrival, so it is essential to check with the relevant embassy beforehand. For example, Canadians could previously obtain visas on arrival in Egypt but are no longer able to.
Israeli citizens can also fly directly from Tel Aviv to Eilat and then arrange a transfer to the Taba border. The Ramon Airport in Eilat allows flights from Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport. Once in Eilat, travelers can take a private taxi or shuttle to the Taba border. It is important to note that the Taba-Eilat border is the only crossing between Israel and Egypt.
In conclusion, Israeli citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for South Sinai, Egypt, by purchasing it at an Egyptian airport before crossing the Taba border. The process is relatively straightforward and convenient, allowing travelers to exchange currency and obtain their visas at the same time. However, it is essential to stay updated on the latest visa requirements as they may change over time.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports. This includes Cairo International Airport.
A single-entry 30-day tourist visa costs around USD 25 in cash, in US dollars. A multiple-entry visa costs approximately $60.
The visa on arrival offers more flexibility for last-minute travellers. It also saves time on arrival at the airport by avoiding the need to queue at airport visa counters.
The process is straightforward. You can purchase the visa at a bank counter or kiosk in the arrival hall before reaching the immigration counters. The bank teller will then give you a sticker, which you will take to passport control.
Yes, you can obtain an e-visa online in advance. However, the visa on arrival is generally recommended due to its convenience and similar price.
