Egypt flag

Travel to Egypt

Egypt Visa & Tourist Entry Requirements

Egypt is a major Middle Eastern destination with rich history and ancient sites. Entry is straightforward for most nationalities. Egypt offers opportunities for work and extended stays, though bureaucracy can be challenging.

Visa Information

Visa on Arrival

  • Available at: Cairo airport and other major entry points
  • Duration: 30 days
  • Fee: 25-30 USD (approximately 500-600 Egyptian Pounds)
  • Processing: Immediate at airport
  • Requirements: Valid passport, passport photo, return ticket
  • No advance application required
  • Most common entry method

Tourist Visa (Pre-Applied)

  • Purpose: Tourism (30 days)
  • Applied from: Egyptian embassy in your country
  • Fee: 15-25 USD depending on country
  • Processing time: 3-5 business days
  • Multiple entries: Available at higher fee
  • Advantage: Faster entry than visa on arrival

Business Visa

  • Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade
  • Duration: 30-90 days
  • Fee: 25-50 USD depending on validity
  • Processing time: 3-5 business days
  • Applied from: Egyptian embassy
  • Multiple entries: Available
  • Requirements: Business letter, invitation letter from Egypt

Temporary Residence Permit

  • Purpose: Extended stay (work, study, family)
  • Duration: 1 year, renewable
  • Applied: At Egypt Immigration Authority
  • Requirements: Sponsor (employer, school, family), proof of funds
  • Processing time: 2-4 weeks
  • Very bureaucratic process

Work Permit

  • Purpose: Employment in Egypt
  • Duration: 1 year, renewable
  • Requirements: Job offer, employer sponsorship
  • Processing: Through Ministry of Manpower
  • Very difficult: Limited work permits issued
  • Expensive: Significant fees involved

Required Documents

🛂Valid passport (6+ months)
📸Passport photograph (4x6 cm)
💳Visa application form (if applying at embassy)
📋Proof of funds (bank statements)
🛂Return ticket or flight confirmation
📸Accommodation details
💳Employment letter (work visa)
📋School enrollment (student visa)

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1

Visa on arrival is easiest; buy at airport upon landing

2

Cost of living is very low: $300-500/month possible

3

Extended stays require bureaucratic process; plan ahead

4

Work permits are difficult and expensive to obtain

5

Arabic language knowledge helpful but not required for tourism

6

Permits for extended stay may require government approval

7

Healthcare varies; private healthcare recommended for expats

8

Security situation varies by region; check current conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

This guide provides general visa information for travel planning purposes. It is not legal advice. Always consult official embassy websites and government immigration portals for the most current requirements. Visa policies change frequently and may vary by individual circumstances.