Egypt Visa Types, Requirements, and Application
Are you planning to visit Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs, the Pyramids, and the Nile? In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the Egypt visa types, requirements, and application process, so you can prepare for your trip with ease and confidence.
Who needs a visa to enter Egypt?
Visa exemption
Citizens of the following countries are eligible to enter Egypt without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days (unless otherwise stated):
You may also be exempt from an Egyptian visa if you are from one of the following countries and meet certain conditions:
- 🇦🇫 Afghanistan: 50 years or older or 16 years or younger
- 🇩🇿 Algeria: only if you are under 14 years old
- 🇨🇳 China: only if you have a return or onward flight ticket as well as a reservation at a 4 or 5 star hotel and 2000 USD (or equivalent amount in another currency).
- 🇯🇴 Jordan: if you have a 5-year regular passport that is not stamped on the back cover by the Jordanian Registration Office
- 🇱🇧 Lebanon: only if you are 50 years or older or 16 years or younger (for Alexandria and South Sinai, all ages can enter visa-free)
- 🇱🇾 Libya: only if you are a woman or a resident of Butnan District on Sundays and Mondays
- 🇲🇦 Morocco: only if you are 14 years old or younger
- 🇵🇸 Palestine: you have a travel document issued by Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan or Syria and you are over 40 years old or under 18 years old
- 🇸🇸 South Sudan: only if you are 50 years or older or 16 years or younger or you are a female citizen
- 🇸🇩 Sudan: only if you are 50 years or older or 16 years or younger or you are a female citizen
- 🇹🇳 Tunisia: only if you are 14 years old or younger
- 🇾🇪 Yemen: only if you are 50 or over or 16 or under or you are traveling for medical purposes
In addition, you are also exempt from an Egyptian visa if you travel in a tour group of at least 5 people, have round-trip tickets, pre-booked accommodation and a letter of guarantee signed by the travel company and you belong to one of the following countries:
Visa on arrival & e-Visa
Citizens of all of the following countries can apply for Egypt visa on arrival, however many visitors who are eligible for a visa on arrival still choose to apply for an Egypt visa before travelling. That’s because all citizens eligible for a visa on arrival are also eligible to apply for an Egypt visa online, and the online process offers greater security since you know that your visa is approved before you make any travel plans. List includes:
Pre-arranged visa
If your country is not on the list above, you can apply for a regular tourist visa at your nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate.
Egypt visa types
Egypt offers different types of visas to cater to the needs of various travelers. Whether you are planning a leisure trip, a business visit, or pursuing education in Egypt, there is a visa type suitable for your purpose.
Tourist visa
The Tourist visa is designed for individuals who wish to visit Egypt for leisure or tourism purposes. Whether you want to explore the historic wonders of ancient Egypt, relax on the beautiful beaches, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, the Tourist Visa allows you to do so.
Business visa
For those planning to conduct business activities in Egypt, the business visa is the ideal choice. This visa allows you to attend meetings, conferences, and negotiate contracts in the country. If you are a business traveler looking to explore opportunities or establish connections in Egypt, the business visa grants you the necessary permission.
Student visa
If you have been accepted into an educational institution in Egypt and are planning to pursue your studies in the country, the student visa is what you need. This visa allows you to reside in Egypt and engage in academic activities, ensuring that you can focus on your education and personal growth.
Each of these visa types has specific requirements and limitations, which we will discuss in detail in the following sections. Understanding the visa types available will help you determine the most appropriate visa for your travel purpose to Egypt.
Egypt visa requirements
To obtain an Egypt visa, certain requirements must be fulfilled. The specific documents, forms, and other prerequisites vary depending on the type of visa and the purpose of travel. Whether you are applying for a tourist visa, business visa, or student visa, it is essential to meet all the necessary requirements to ensure a successful application process.
Tourist visa
To apply for a tourist visa for Egypt, you will need to provide the following:
- Six-month valid passport at the time of application
- A completed visa application form
- Documentation of travel plans, such as flight tickets
- Evidence of accommodation arrangements in Egypt
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Evidence of your ability to pay for the costs you may incur while visiting
- Travel insurance
Business visa
If you are planning to visit Egypt for business purposes, you will need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Six-month valid passport at the time of application
- A completed business visa application form
- A letter of invitation from a business associate in Egypt
- A note from your company outlining the reason for your travel and how long you plan to stay
- Evidence that you have the funds necessary to pay for your stay
- A recent passport-sized photograph
Student visa
If you plan to study in Egypt, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Six-month valid passport at the time of application
- A completed student visa application form
- A letter of acceptance from an educational establishment in Egypt
- Evidence of financial capability to cover your tuition fees and living expenses
- A recent passport-sized photograph
How to apply for Egypt visa?
At the embassy
Before you start the application, make sure you have the required documents and information readily available. Here are the steps to apply for Egypt visa:
- Step#1: Visit the official website of the Egyptian Consulate or Embassy in your country to obtain the visa application form.
- Step#2: Fill out the application form accurately and completely. Verify all the information given to prevent any mistakes or inconsistencies.
- Step#3: Gather the supporting documents required for your visa type, such as a valid passport, passport-size photographs, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and an invitation letter if applicable. Make sure you have all the required documentation by checking the particular criteria for your type of visa.
- Step#4: Pay the visa application fee. Your nationality and the kind of visa you want may affect the fee you have to pay. Refer to the official website or contact the Egyptian Consulate or Embassy in your country for the updated fee information and payment methods.
- Step#5: Submit your completed application form, supporting documents, and payment receipt to the Egyptian Consulate or Embassy either in person or by mail. Ensure that your application is complete and meets all the requirements to avoid any delays or rejections.
- Step#6: Wait for the visa processing time to receive your Egypt visa. The processing time may vary depending on various factors, so it is advisable to submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Step#7: Once you receive your approved visa, make sure to review the visa details and validity dates. If there are any discrepancies or issues, contact the Egyptian Consulate or Embassy for clarification or assistance.
e-Visa
Here are the processes for applying for an Egypt e-Visa:
- Step#1. Check your eligibility: You can visit the Egypt e-Visa Portal to see the list of eligible countries and the visa requirements.
- Step#2. Register for an account: You need to create an account on the Egypt e-Visa Portal with your email address and some personal information.
- Step#3. Fill out the application form: You need to provide your passport details, travel information, and accommodation details in Egypt. You also need to upload a copy of your passport photo page.
- Step#4. Pay the e-Visa fee: You need to pay the e-Visa fee using a Visa card, MasterCard, or other debit cards. The charge varies according to the kind and term of your visa.
- Step#5. Receive your e-Visa by email: After you submit your application and payment, your e-Visa will be processed within 3 days. You will receive an email with your e-Visa as a PDF document. You need to print it and present it to the immigration officials when you arrive in Egypt.
You should apply for your e-Visa at least 7 days before your departure date.
On arrival
- Step#1: Fill out the application form. When you arrive at the airport, you need to find and queue in front of the visa on arrival. You will be given a visa application form that you need to fill out with your personal and travel information. You also need to submit your passport and passport photo to the officer, who will then place a visa sticker on a blank page of your passport.
- Step#2: Receive your visa on arrival. After you pay the visa fee, you will get back your passport with the visa sticker attached. You need to present it to the immigration officials when you enter Egypt. The visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and can be extended once.
Processing time for Egypt visa
The processing time for a visa to Egypt depends on the type of visa you apply for and the method you choose. There are three main ways to get a visa to Egypt: online, on arrival, or at the embassy.
- Online: The average processing time for an e-Visa is 5 working days.
- On arrival: The processing time for a visa on arrival may vary depending on the airport and the number of travelers. It may involve long queues and delays.
- At the embassy: The processing time for a visa at the embassy can take 15-30 working days.
Egypt visa fees
Obtaining an Egypt visa requires payment of a specific fee during the application process. The cost of the visa can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality.
For a tourist bisa, the fee is typically around $25 for a single entry and $60 for a multiple entry visa. Business visa fees range from $35 to $120, depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. If you are applying for a student visa, the fee is approximately $35.
To make the payment for your Egypt visa, you can usually use a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards or online payment platforms. It’s important to note that the fees mentioned here are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official website of the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.