Egypt Travel Without Visa

By Andrew Lewis on 25 Sep 2023

In modern times, the application process for a tourist visa has become faster and more streamlined, thanks to easier methods for collecting information and approvals happening within a much shorter time span. Some countries have even eliminated tourist visas for official passport holders by introducing e-visas, which makes visiting even more accessible and straightforward.

Non-Egyptian passport holders planning a trip may be wondering if they need an electronic visa, or if they can get a visa on arrival or even travel visa-free. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for about visa-exemption, visa requirements, and more.

Can I Travel to Egypt Without a Visa?

Egypt’s visa-entry requirements depend on your country of citizenship. Citizens from some countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries, are eligible for a visa on arrival at major entry points, like Cairo International Airport.

US citizens must acquire a visa to enter Egypt , but they can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at the Egyptian airport for a US$25 fee or a multiple-entry visa for US$60. Payments must be made in cash.

While a visa on arrival is possible, it’s recommended to sort your visa prior to departure to avoid possible delays or complications with Egyptian immigration officials.

Which Countries Don’t Need Visas for Egypt?

A number of countries have agreements with the Egyptian government permitting visa-free entry, or easier visa facilitation for short tourist or business visits.

Those visa-free countries are: Bahrain, Hong Kong, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon (only for arrivals at Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba airports, for trips up to 15 days), Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates.

Citizens of these countries don’t usually need a visa for short visits (typically up to 90 days), depending on the specific agreement.

Egypt Visa on Arrival

It’s not always possible to obtain a visa on arrival in Egypt, but passport holders from a number of countries and territories can apply in advance for an e-Visa. Travelers must present a passport valid for at least six months from the date they plan to leave Egypt.

The following is a partial list of visa-on-arrival eligible countries and territories, they include: Australia, Canada, European Union countries (including France, Germany and Italy, among others), Georgia, Japan, Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Serbia, South Korea, Ukraine, the UK, and the US.

Entering as an Egypt Citizen With a Foreign Passport

Even with a foreign passport, Egyptian citizens’ visa requirements are typically less involved. Egyptian citizens, including dual nationals, are expected to enter and exit Egypt using their Egyptian documentation. If you have an Egyptian national ID or valid Egyptian passport, you may be required to show it.

If you are traveling with children who are also dual nationals, you may need to provide documentation proving custody or parental permission for the child to travel into or out of Egypt.

How Do I Get an Egypt Visa?

Depending upon your nationality and reason for visiting Egypt, there are three main methods for obtaining an Egypt visa.

If you’re from a country eligible for a visa upon arrival, you can get your visa when you land at major Egypt airports, like Cairo International Airport. You usually need to fill out a form and pay a fee. Have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and prepare to show proof of onward travel if requested.

Another possibility is to apply for an online visa. An e-Visa application usually involves a scan of your passport, a photo, and sometimes additional required documents, such as a travel itinerary; a fee must also be paid with a credit or debit card. Once approved, print out your e-Visa and carry it with your passport.

You might also be able to apply for an Egypt visa at your country’s embassy or consulate. Filling out a form, providing photographs and proof for your trip, and paying a fee are all required.

Be Visa-Ready for Egypt

Obtaining a valid visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a Egypt visa. Start your visa application process.

Doing your research before traveling helps you avoid issues and be prepared in case of an emergency. For more information on other aspects of travel to Egypt, including navigating Cairo International Airport, health and safety, and banking, money, and currency, visit our Egypt content hub.