Egypt offers a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for travelers from many countries, allowing easy access for tourism or business. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a VOA in Egypt, including eligibility, requirements, and detailed tips to make your arrival smooth.
What is an Egypt Visa on Arrival?
The Visa on Arrival lets eligible travelers obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival in Egypt, saving time on advance applications. This type of visa is ideal for short-term stays, including vacations and business trips.
Benefits of an Egypt Visa on Arrival
- Convenient: No embassy or consulate visits are necessary.
- Fast: Ideal for last-minute travelers.
- Simple Documentation: Only a few basic documents are needed, making it accessible to many visitors.
Countries Eligible for Egypt’s Visa on Arrival
Travelers from over 100 countries can obtain an Egypt Visa on Arrival. Here’s a list of the eligible countries:
List of Eligible Countries
- 🇦🇱 Albania
- 🇦🇩 Andorra
- 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda
- 🇦🇷 Argentina
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇦🇹 Austria
- 🇧🇸 Bahamas
- 🇧🇪 Belgium
- 🇧🇹 Bhutan
- 🇧🇴 Bolivia
- 🇧🇷 Brazil
- 🇧🇳 Brunei
- 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
- 🇰🇭 Cambodia
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇨🇱 Chile
- 🇨🇴 Colombia
- 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
- 🇭🇷 Croatia
- 🇨🇺 Cuba
- 🇨🇾 Cyprus
- 🇨🇿 Czech Republic
- 🇩🇰 Denmark
- 🇩🇲 Dominica
- 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic
- 🇪🇨 Ecuador
- 🇪🇪 Estonia
- 🇫🇯 Fiji
- 🇫🇮 Finland
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇬🇪 Georgia
- 🇩🇪 Germany
- 🇬🇷 Greece
- 🇬🇩 Grenada
- 🇬🇳 Guinea
- 🇬🇾 Guyana
- 🇭🇹 Haiti
- 🇭🇺 Hungary
- 🇮🇸 Iceland
- 🇮🇪 Ireland
- 🇮🇹 Italy
- 🇯🇲 Jamaica
- 🇯🇵 Japan
- 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan
- 🇰🇮 Kiribati
- 🇱🇦 Laos
- 🇱🇻 Latvia
- 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein
- 🇱🇹 Lithuania
- 🇱🇺 Luxembourg
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
- 🇲🇻 Maldives
- 🇲🇹 Malta
- 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands
- 🇲🇽 Mexico
- 🇫🇲 Micronesia
- 🇲🇨 Monaco
- 🇲🇪 Montenegro
- 🇳🇷 Nauru
- 🇳🇵 Nepal
- 🇳🇱 Netherlands
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
- 🇳🇮 Nicaragua
- 🇲🇰 North Macedonia
- 🇳🇴 Norway
- 🇵🇼 Palau
- 🇵🇦 Panama
- 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea
- 🇵🇾 Paraguay
- 🇵🇪 Peru
- 🇵🇱 Poland
- 🇵🇹 Portugal
- 🇷🇴 Romania
- 🇷🇺 Russia
- 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis
- 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia
- 🇼🇸 Samoa
- 🇸🇲 San Marino
- 🇸🇹 Sao Tome and Principe
- 🇷🇸 Serbia
- 🇸🇨 Seychelles
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- 🇸🇰 Slovakia
- 🇸🇮 Slovenia
- 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands
- 🇰🇷 South Korea
- 🇸🇸 South Sudan
- 🇪🇸 Spain
- 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- 🇸🇷 Suriname
- 🇸🇪 Sweden
- 🇨🇭 Switzerland
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan
- 🇹🇱 East Timor
- 🇹🇴 Tonga
- 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago
- 🇹🇻 Tuvalu
- 🇺🇦 Ukraine
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇺🇾 Uruguay
- 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
- 🇻🇦 Vatican City
- 🇻🇪 Venezuela
Travelers from other countries may need an e-Visa or a visa obtained in advance from an Egyptian embassy.
Requirements for Egypt’s Visa on Arrival
To get an Egypt Visa on Arrival, make sure you have:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
- Visa Fee: The cost is approximately $25 USD, payable in cash.
- Completed Application Form: Available at the airport.
- Return Ticket: Proof of onward travel may be requested.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Egypt Visa on Arrival
Here’s what to expect when you apply for a VOA at an Egyptian airport:
- Arrive at the Airport: After landing, follow signs directing you to the visa-on-arrival counter.
- Prepare Your Documents: Have your passport, cash for the fee, and any additional information (like your return ticket) ready.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form provided at the counter.
- Submit and Pay: Hand in your passport, completed form, and cash payment to the immigration officer.
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, the officer will stamp your passport, granting entry for up to 30 days.
This straightforward process usually takes a few minutes, though wait times may vary based on airport traffic.
How Long Can You Stay with an Egypt Visa on Arrival?
The Egypt VOA allows a stay of up to 30 days. If you need to extend your stay, visit the Egyptian Immigration Office in Cairo for an extension, as overstaying can result in fines.
Egypt’s e-Visa Option
If you prefer to arrange your visa before arriving, Egypt’s e-Visa is available to travelers from the same eligible countries. Here’s how the e-Visa process works:
- Apply Online: Visit Egypt’s official e-Visa website and complete the application.
- Pay the Fee: The e-Visa costs about $25 USD.
- Processing Time: Expect the e-Visa to be issued in 3-5 business days.
The e-Visa offers the same 30-day stay as the VOA, making it a great option for travelers who want everything arranged in advance.
Document Checklist for Egypt’s Visa on Arrival
Use this checklist to make sure you’re prepared:
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
- Visa fee ($25 USD in cash)
- Completed application form (available at the airport)
- Return or onward ticket
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Bringing Cash for the Visa Fee: Credit cards may not be accepted, so carry cash.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond your entry date.
- Incomplete Application: Fill out all fields on the form to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I extend my visa on arrival in Egypt?
- Yes, you can extend your VOA at the Egyptian Immigration Office in Cairo, though fees and requirements vary. Extensions may allow an additional 30 days.
- What happens if I overstay my VOA?
- Overstaying your visa can result in fines. Visit the Egyptian Immigration Office to request an extension if you need more time.
- Is an e-Visa better than a VOA?
- An e-Visa can save time at the airport and allows you to complete the process before departure, making it a convenient choice if you prefer a more streamlined arrival.
- What’s the best currency to bring for the visa fee?
- The visa fee is best paid in USD, which is widely accepted. Some counters may accept other currencies, but USD is recommended for ease.
- Are there specific activities allowed with a VOA?
- A VOA typically covers tourism and limited business activities. For work or study, a different visa type may be required.
Travel Tips for Visiting Egypt
- Bring USD for Convenience: The US dollar is widely accepted and can simplify paying fees and purchases.
- Respect Local Customs: Egypt has a rich cultural heritage, so it’s respectful to be mindful of local customs, especially in religious areas.
- Stay Informed on Health Guidelines: Consult health authorities about recommended vaccinations for travel in Egypt.