1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Egypt?

The current visa policy for traveling to Egypt is as follows:

1. Visa-free entry: Citizens of Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

2. Tourist visa on arrival: Citizens of Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand and most European Union countries can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Cairo, Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh airports for stays up to 30 days.

3. Electronic Travel Authorization (e-Visa): Citizens of 46 countries can apply for an e-Visa online before their trip to Egypt. The e-Visa allows for stays up to 30 days and is valid for entry through any of Egypt’s border checkpoints.

4. Advance Visa: Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or e-Visas must obtain a visa in advance from an Egyptian embassy or consulate in their home country.

5. Visa exemption: Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries are exempt from obtaining a visa before entering Egypt. They will be granted a free residence permit for the duration of their stay.

6. Transit visas: Transit travelers who are passing through Egypt by land do not need to obtain a visa if they are staying in the transit area and have confirmed onward travel documents.


It is recommended that travelers check with their nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on the visa requirements and procedures before planning their trip.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Egypt as a tourist?

Yes, most visitors will need a visa to enter Egypt as a tourist. The type of visa required will depend on your nationality and the length of your stay in Egypt. Some nationalities are able to obtain a visa on arrival, while others will need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Egypt. It is recommended that you check with the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements.

3. How do I obtain an Egyptian tourist visa?
If you require a tourist visa before traveling, you can obtain one from the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also apply for an e-Visa online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website. In some cases, individuals may be able to obtain a visa on arrival at the airport in Egypt.

4. How much does an Egyptian tourist visa cost?
The cost of an Egyptian tourist visa will vary depending on your nationality and how you obtain it (embassy vs. e-Visa vs. on arrival). Generally, the price ranges from $25-$60 USD.

5. How long is an Egyptian tourist visa valid for?
Tourist visas for Egypt are typically valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days if necessary.

6. What documents do I need to apply for an Egyptian tourist visa?
The exact documents required may vary depending on your nationality and how you are obtaining your visa (embassy vs. e-Visa vs. on arrival), but some common requirements include:
– A completed application form
– A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
– Proof of accommodation in Egypt
– Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
– Round-trip flight itinerary or proof of onward travel
– Visa fee payment (if obtaining from embassy)
– Supporting documents such as travel insurance, invitation letter, etc.

7. Is there a way to enter Egypt without a visa?
Citizens of certain countries may be able to visit Egypt without a visa for a limited time period. For example, citizens of some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can enter Egypt for up to 90 days without a visa. It is recommended that you check with the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country to see if you are eligible for visa-free entry.

8. What happens if I overstay my tourist visa in Egypt?
If you overstay your visa in Egypt, you may face fines and other penalties. It is best to extend your stay before your initial visa expires or obtain a new visa if necessary. It is also important to note that overstaying can affect future travel plans to Egypt and may even result in legal consequences.

9. Can I work on an Egyptian tourist visa?
No, an Egyptian tourist visa does not allow visitors to engage in any type of employment or business activities while in the country.

10. Can I visit other countries from Egypt on my tourist visa?
No, an Egyptian tourist visa only allows you to enter and stay in Egypt. If you plan on visiting other countries during your trip, you will need separate visas for those destinations.

3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Egypt?

Yes, there are some exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Egypt. Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Egypt:

1. Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates: Nationals of these countries can enter Egypt without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.

2. Oman: Omani nationals can enter Egypt without a visa and stay for up to 14 days.

3. Malaysia: Malaysian nationals can obtain a free entry visa upon arrival at any of Egypt’s airports for a maximum stay of up to 30 days.

4. Hong Kong & Macao (China): Holders of Hong Kong SAR or Macao SAR passports can enter Egypt without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.

5. Tunisia, Jordan & Yemen: Nationals of these countries can obtain a free entry visa upon arrival at any of Egypt’s airports for a maximum stay of up to 30 days.

6. Lebanon: Lebanese nationals can obtain an e-visa or apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at any of Egypt’s airports for a maximum stay of up to 15 days.

7. Palestine: Palestinian passport holders can obtain an entry certificate from the Egyptian consular missions abroad or from the border ports when entering Egypt.

It is always best to check with the nearest Egyptian consulate or embassy in your country before traveling to ensure that you meet all entry requirements.

4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Egypt?

The length of time it takes to obtain a visa for Egypt varies depending on the type of visa and the processing times at the Egyptian embassy or consulate issuing the visa. On average, it can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks for a tourist visa and up to several months for a work or residency permit. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 1 month in advance of your planned travel dates.

5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Egypt?

Yes, there is an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Egypt. This can be done by submitting a request for urgent processing or by applying for an express visa at the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing.

6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Egypt?

Yes, some basic vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for travelers to Egypt. Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. It is also recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, polio vaccine, and varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Egypt on a tourist visa?

Yes, tourists are typically allowed to stay in Egypt for a maximum of 30 days on a tourist visa. However, this can vary depending on the type of visa you have and your country of citizenship. It is important to check the specific guidelines and expiration date listed on your visa before traveling. If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for a visa extension at the nearest immigration office in Egypt.

8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Egypt?

According to Egyptian immigration laws, visitors on a tourist visa are not allowed to work or engage in any business activities while in Egypt. However, volunteering for non-profit organizations may be allowed with special permission from the Ministry of Social Solidarity. It is important to always check the regulations and restrictions of your specific visa before engaging in any activities while in Egypt.

9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Egypt?

It is possible to extend a tourist visa in Egypt, but it must be done before the original visa expires. The extension process can be started at any immigration office in Egypt or through a travel agency. The traveler will need to provide a valid reason for the extension and pay a fee. However, extensions are not guaranteed and it is recommended to plan your trip accordingly to avoid any issues with overstaying your visa.

10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Egypt?

The necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Egypt will vary depending on your nationality and purpose of travel. Generally, the following documents are required:

1. A completed visa application form (online or in-person)
2. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
3. Two recent passport-size photos
4. Proof of financial means (such as bank statements or pay stubs)
5. Flight itinerary or proof of transportation out of Egypt
6. Hotel reservations or letter of invitation from a host in Egypt (if applicable)
7. Visa application fee

Additional documents may be required, such as a letter from your employer, proof of medical insurance, or a vaccination certificate.

The visa application fee will also depend on your nationality and type of visa requested. It is best to check with the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your country for specific fees.

11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Egypt?

Yes, business travelers entering Egypt must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining before the expiration date. They also need to obtain a visa before arrival, unless they are from one of the visa-exempt countries.

Certain industries or professions may require additional permits or authorizations in order to conduct business in Egypt. For example, journalists, filmmakers, and researchers may need special visas or press passes. It is advisable to consult with the nearest embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Additionally, individuals traveling for business purposes are not permitted to engage in any type of employment while in Egypt without a valid work permit.

12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Egypt?

Minors under the age of 18 who are traveling with their parents or legal guardians do not require a separate visa to enter Egypt. However, they must have their own passport and be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians at all times during the trip. If a minor is traveling with only one parent, a copy of the other parent’s signed consent for travel should be submitted along with the minor’s visa application.

13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Egypt?

The duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Egypt varies depending on the type of visa issued. A single-entry tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days from the date of entry, while a multiple-entry tourist visa can be valid for up to six months. It is important to check the specific validity period stated on your visa before travel.

14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Egypt?

No, a single-entry tourist visa only allows you to enter Egypt one time. If you need to enter and exit multiple times, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa or a residence permit.

15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Egypt?

No, you cannot apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Egypt. All foreign nationals, except for nationals of visa-exempt countries, are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival through an Egyptian embassy or consulate. You will not be allowed to board your flight to Egypt without a valid visa.

16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Egypt?

Yes, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Egypt in order to apply for a visa.

17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Egypt?

If you have a criminal record, it may affect your eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Egypt. The Egyptian government has the right to deny entry to anyone with a criminal record, and they may also require you to provide additional documents or information about your character and background before granting a visa.

It is important to note that each visa application is considered on a case-by-case basis. If you do have a criminal record, it is recommended that you provide as much information and documentation as possible in your visa application. This can include court documents, character references, and any evidence of rehabilitation or changed behavior.

Ultimately, the decision to grant or deny a visa rests with the immigration officer reviewing your application. It is best to be honest and transparent about any past convictions and demonstrate that you are not a threat to national security or public safety.

18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Egypt?

Overstaying your tourist visa period in Egypt can result in several consequences, including:

1. Monetary fine: If you overstay your visa for less than 30 days, you will be fined 350 EGP. For overstays longer than 30 days, the fine increases to 15 EGP per day.

2. Possible deportation: Overstaying your visa for an extended period of time or repeatedly could result in deportation from Egypt.

3. Difficulty in obtaining future visas: If you overstay your visa in Egypt, it could make it more difficult for you to obtain a visa in the future.

4. Criminal charges: In some cases, overstaying a tourist visa may be considered a criminal offense and could lead to legal consequences.

5. Banned from re-entering Egypt: If you have overstayed your visa and left Egypt before paying the fine or resolving the issue with immigration authorities, you may be banned from re-entering the country.

It is important to adhere to all immigration laws and regulations while visiting Egypt to avoid these consequences. If you need to extend your stay in Egypt for any reason, it is best to do so before your original visa expires and follow the proper procedures outlined by Egyptian immigration authorities.

19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Egypt?

No, it is not possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit to another while remaining within country limits in Egypt. Each type of residency permit has its own requirements and application process, and you would need to leave the country and apply for a new permit from outside Egypt if you wanted to change your status.

20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Egypt?

The mandatory requirements for passport photos and sizes for visa application in Egypt are as follows:

1. Size: The photo size should be 4 cm x 6 cm (approximately 1.5 inches x 2 inches).

2. Format: The photo should be in color, printed on high-quality paper and taken against a plain white or light background.

3. Appearance: The photo should be recent (taken within the last six months) and clearly depict your full face, without any sunglasses or hats.

4. Expression: The photo should show a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and your mouth closed.

5. Head position: The head should be directly facing the camera, with your entire forehead and chin visible.

6. Dimensions of the face: Your face should cover around 70-80% of the photo from top to bottom and be centered in the frame.

7. Lighting: The lighting should be even with no shadows on your face.

8. Headgear: If you wear headgear for religious beliefs, it must not cover any part of your face.

9. Glasses: If you normally wear glasses, you can keep them on, but make sure there is no glare or reflection obscuring your eyes.

10. Other requirements: Photos must not have any staple marks, creases or other damage.

It is recommended to have at least two copies of the same photograph submitted along with the application form to avoid any issues.