Planning a bucket-list trip to the land of the pharaohs starts with one practical question: do you need a visa to travel to Egypt? In most cases, yes—you’ll need either an Egypt e-Visa, a visa on arrival, or a consular visa arranged in advance. The good news? For many nationalities, the process is straightforward, fast, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re eyeing a sunrise at the Giza Pyramids, temple-hopping in Luxor, or a sunset felucca ride on the Nile, this guide demystifies Egypt’s visa rules so you can focus on the fun parts: packing your camera and planning that perfect itinerary.
Why this matters now: Visa rules evolve, entry categories vary by passport, and small details—like passport validity and entry points—can make or break a trip. Below, you’ll find clear explanations of who needs a visa, which visa to choose, how to apply, what it costs, and the exceptions (including the Sinai “resort permission” stamp). You’ll also get pro tips to avoid common mistakes, a quick-check pre-departure list, and answers to the internet’s most-searched FAQs about Egypt visas.
Egypt Visa Requirements at a Glance (Quick Answer)
Most travelers need a visa to enter Egypt. You generally have three routes:
- Egypt e-Visa (online): Apply through the official portal before you fly. Many nationalities are eligible for single- or multiple-entry e-visas. Processing is typically a few days, and approval is emailed to you for printing and presentation on arrival.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Eligible travelers can purchase a 30-day single-entry visa for USD $25 at major airports (look for the bank kiosks before passport control). Bring cash.
- Consular visa: If you’re not VOA/e-Visa eligible—or you need a different stay category—apply at an Egyptian embassy/consulate.
Passport validity: Your passport should have at least 6 months’ validity beyond your planned entry date.
Sinai exception: Many travelers arriving only to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba can get a free 15-day “Sinai resort permission” stamp—but it doesn’t permit travel to mainland Egypt (e.g., Cairo or Luxor). If you want to leave Sinai or stay longer, you need a regular visa.
Choosing the Right Entry Option: e-Visa vs. Visa on Arrival vs. Consular Visa
Egypt e-Visa: Apply Online Before You Fly
Best for: Travelers who want peace of mind before departure, multiple entries, or smoother airport arrival.
Steps to apply:
- Check eligibility on the official e-Visa portal.
- Select single- or multiple-entry.
- Prepare documents: passport scan, itinerary, hotel booking.
- Submit and pay online; approval arrives via email. Print it.
Cost: $25 single-entry or $60 multiple-entry (confirm current fees).
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Buy It at the Airport
Best for: Eligible travelers who didn’t apply online or booked last-minute.
How it works:
- Purchase the VOA sticker (USD $25, single-entry, 30 days) at airport bank kiosks.
- Place the sticker in your passport, then proceed to immigration.
Tip: Carry cash in USD; cards aren’t always accepted.
Consular Visa: Apply Through the Embassy
Best for: Travelers not eligible for e-Visa/VOA, or those seeking longer stays, work, or study visas.
Submit your passport, photos, itinerary, and required forms to an Egyptian embassy/consulate. Processing takes longer, so apply several weeks in advance.
Passport & Entry Essentials You Shouldn’t Miss
- Passport valid at least 6 months on arrival.
- Two blank pages minimum.
- Return/forward tickets and hotel confirmations may be checked.
Special Case: Sinai-Only Entry
If you arrive directly into Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba, you may receive a free 15-day Sinai resort stamp.
This stamp does not allow visits to Cairo, Luxor, or mainland Egypt. To explore beyond Sinai, you need a regular visa (VOA or e-Visa).
Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry: Which Should You Choose?
- Single-entry: Perfect for most vacations (valid for 30 days).
- Multiple-entry: Best if you’ll visit Jordan or another country during your trip and then re-enter Egypt.
How Long Can You Stay in Egypt on a Tourist Visa?
A standard tourist visa allows 30 days per entry. If you need more time, you can request an extension at immigration offices inside Egypt (bring passport copies, photos, and patience).
Transit, Cruise Calls & Overland Entries
- Airport transit: No visa if you remain airside. To exit the airport, you’ll need a VOA or e-Visa.
- Cruise passengers: Many cruises arrange group permits. Independent travelers may need individual visas.
- Overland from Israel/Jordan: Some border crossings issue only the Sinai stamp. If your plan includes Cairo or Luxor, get a visa in advance.
Costs, Documents & Timing
- Visa on arrival: USD $25 (single-entry, 30 days).
- e-Visa: $25 (single-entry), $60 (multiple-entry).
- Documents needed: Passport (6+ months), bio-page scan (for e-Visa), flights, hotels, travel insurance, cash for VOA.
- When to apply: 1–4 weeks before travel for e-Visa.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering with a Sinai-only stamp but planning to see Cairo or Luxor.
- Forgetting cash for visa on arrival.
- Not printing the e-Visa approval.
- Overlooking multiple-entry needs if leaving Egypt mid-trip.
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Printed e-Visa (or VOA cash ready)
- Flight & hotel confirmations
- Travel insurance
- Spare cash for airport fees
FAQs: Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Egypt?
- Do U.S., U.K., and EU citizens need a visa to travel to Egypt?
Yes. Most are eligible for e-Visa or VOA, making entry simple. - How much is the Egypt visa on arrival?
USD $25 for a single-entry tourist visa (30 days). - What’s the difference between e-Visa and VOA?
e-Visa is obtained online in advance; VOA is purchased at the airport. - Can I visit Cairo and Luxor with the Sinai resort stamp?
No. The Sinai stamp only covers Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba, and Taba. - How long can I stay in Egypt on a tourist visa?
Usually 30 days per entry. Extensions are available in Egypt. - Do I need a visa if I’m only transiting Cairo airport?
Not if you stay airside. To leave the airport, you’ll need VOA or e-Visa. - What if I leave and return during my trip?
Get a multiple-entry e-Visa or buy a new visa when you re-enter (if eligible).