Your Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining an Egypt Visa

As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Egypt is synonymous with ancient dynasties and temples, the Nile River, and the Pyramids of Giza. A North African country linked to the Middle East, it remains vibrant today, with a population of over 100 million and a diverse topography extending to its coastline regions, vast deserts, and mountainous ranges.

Cairo is Egypt’s buzzing capital, known for Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum, the Cairo Tower, and Citadel of Saladin. Neighboring Giza is the location of the Great Sphinx and the long-anticipated Grand Museum of Egypt. Luxor is famous for having the most ancient Egyptian sites, including the Valley of the Kings. Alexandria, the country’s second-largest city, was once Egypt’s capital, and its Library of Alexandria is a modern cultural complex that honors its ancient predecessor.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to Egypt, from passport and visa requirements to the process of getting an Egypt visa for US citizens.

Essential Travel Information

  • Official language

    Arabic, with several vernacular dialects

  • Time Zone

    Eastern European Time (UTC+2)

  • Climate

    Essentially an arid desert climate, though the northern coastline is more Mediterranean.

  • Calling Code

    +20

  • Electricity

    220V/50Hz; type C and F plugs

  • Capital City and US Embassy

    Cairo

  • Currency

    Egyptian pound (E£; EGP); current exchange rate, 1 US dollar = 30.91 Egyptian pounds (exchange rate subject to change).

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Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Travel to Egypt?

Yes, US citizens must have a visa to enter Egypt. US citizens can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for US$25. A multiple-entry visa is also obtainable for US$60.

Egypt Visa Requirements for US Citizens

For a visa upon arrival, American passport holders must meet the following requirements

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  • Carry a valid US passport, valid at least six months from your date of entry into Egypt and containing at least one blank page.
  • Be prepared to pay the on-arrival visa fee in cash upon arrival. US dollars are accepted. The current cost is US$25, but the amount may be subject to change.
  • Egyptian immigration officials occasionally request proof of a return or onward ticket to show your intention to leave the country within the permitted duration of your stay.
  • You may need to provide information about your accommodations in Egypt, such as a hotel reservation.

While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival in Egypt , consider applying for an e-Visa, which can be done in advance of your trip. US citizens are eligible for an e-Visa, as are citizens from other countries, including most countries within the European Union, Canada and the United Kingdom.

The e-Visa allows for a single entry and is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. The Egypt e-Visa application can be completed online through the official Egyptian e-visa portal.

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Egypt Tourist Visa

For Egypt, there are two types of tourist visas. A single-entry visa allows a person to stay in Egypt for a maximum of 30 days, and the visa is valid for six months. A multiple-entry visa allows travelers to enter Egypt multiple times within a six-month period.

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Egypt Business Visa

An Egypt Business Visa typically permits a maximum stay of up to 30 days. Along with other required documents, this type of visa can also require an official invitation letter from an Egyptian company or organization and a letter from your employer indicating the purpose and duration of your visit.

General Travel Requirements to Enter Egypt

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The following documentation is needed to apply for an e-Visa:

  • A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry and at least one blank page.
  • A scanned copy of your passport details
  • A valid email address for information on your application and, upon approval, receiving your e-Visa
  • Travel itinerary and accommodation details

Payment is by credit card or debit card; there is a processing fee for the e-Visa application form.

Egypt Travel Restrictions

It’s important to stay alert to any travel restrictions relating to Egypt .

There are no COVID-19 restrictions for US citizens traveling to Egypt. While being vaccinated is recommended, you don’t need to provide proof of vaccination or negative COVID tests, and there are no health screenings at ports of entry.

Contact Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population for the latest COVID-19 travel advisories and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the most recent recommendations regarding travel to Egypt.

As of July 12, 2023, the US State Department has set a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for travelers to Egypt. Americans are instructed not to travel to the Sinai Peninsula (unless you’re going to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) and the Western Desert due to terrorism, or to Egyptian border areas due to military zones. And overall, American citizens should exercise increased caution in Egypt due to ”the Embassy’s limited ability to assist dual national US-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.”

US travelers can register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to find you in an emergency. The US Embassy’s website also has updates.

For more up-to-date information about travel restrictions to Egypt, check Entriva’s travel map , or with the US State Department and the US embassy and consulates in Egypt.

Health and Safety in Egypt

The CDC currently has a Level 1: Practice Usual Precautions advisory for Egypt, due to the risk of dengue in Africa and the Middle East. The agency also advises on staying up-to-date on routine vaccinations and keeping an eye on the latest COVID-19 vaccine requirements for travel to Egypt.

Here are some general health and safety tips  to follow while in Egypt:

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  • To avoid gastrointestinal issues, it’s generally recommended to drink bottled water and avoid ice because it’s often made from tap water.
  • Before eating or preparing food, wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Traveler’s diarrhea can be common in Egypt, so consider bringing over the counter anti-diarrhea medications and rehydration salts to help manage symptoms. Staying hydrated is also important; drink plenty of fluids and be sure to rest.
  • Stay alert to potential civil unrest during your travels by monitoring local media and other valid news sources. If strikes or riots do take place in the area you’re traveling, stay away from the affected areas and stay indoors. It’s best to avoid demonstrations or protests, as Egyptian authorities and military personnel could misinterpret your presence as participation, potentially leading to arrest and legal issues.
  • It is advised to purchase travel insurance beforehand to cover any sudden emergency related expenses, such as medical care or evacuation.

Local Laws for Travelers to Egypt

It’s essential to learn about Egyptian laws that are relevant to you as a traveler to ensure a trouble-free visit—you’re subject to them even though you’re a citizen of another country. If you break the law, you may face consequences, ranging from fines to imprisonment or deportation.

Here are some local rules and regulations travelers should know:

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  • In Egypt, it is illegal to remove or attempt to remove any ancient artifacts or archaeological treasures from the country without proper authorization. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs or artifacts and ensure they are legally obtained.
  • Avoid taking photographs or videos of sensitive sites, such as military installations, airports, or police stations. It’s best to ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or markets.
  • Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is not allowed and can lead to arrest. Possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offense and even for small amounts could lead to severe penalties.
  • Certain social norms can also be subject to law. As Egypt is predominantly an Islamic country, it’s important to dress conservatively. Cover your shoulders and at least up to your knees, and avoid revealing or loud clothing. This is especially important within religious or sacred places. You may also have to remove your shoes when entering mosques or other religious establishments.

If you’re arrested and imprisoned in Egypt, you should alert your country’s embassy or consulate  right away. They can provide assistance and guidance on what you should do next.

Money, Banking, and Currency in Egypt

The official currency of Egypt  is the Egyptian pound (E£; EGP). Banknotes are available in denominations of E£5, E£10, E£20, E£50, E£100, E£200, and E£500 Egyptian, while coins are available in denominations of 25 and 50 piastres.

ATMs are greatly available in major cities and tourist areas in Egypt, but it’s best to use ones located in reputable establishments, such as banks or shopping centers. Credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments. Carry some cash too, as it’s more accepted by smaller businesses and street merchants.

Tipping is customary for various hospitality services, such as hotel staff, restaurant servers, tour guides, and drivers. Small denominations are best for tipping.

Be Visa-Ready for Egypt

Obtaining a 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. 

Essential Travel Information

  • Official language

    Arabic, with several vernacular dialects

  • Time Zone

    Eastern European Time (UTC+2)

  • Climate

    Essentially an arid desert climate, though the northern coastline is more Mediterranean.

  • Calling Code

    +20

  • Electricity

    220V/50Hz; type C and F plugs

  • Capital City and US Embassy

    Cairo

  • Currency

    Egyptian pound (E£; EGP); current exchange rate, 1 US dollar = 30.91 Egyptian pounds (exchange rate subject to change).

Unlocking the World: Adventures Await on Your Traveler's Path

Get Travel Visa learn more