Egypt Visa Guide: e-Visa, Visa on Arrival & Requirements (2026)

Most tourists need a visa to enter Egypt. There are three main options: the online e-Visa, the visa on arrival, or (for Sinai-only stays) a free entry permit. This guide covers all three, with the requirements and costs for 2026.

Egypt e-Visa (recommended)

Apply at visa2egypt.gov.eg at least 7 days before travel. The official portal rate is US$30 for a single-entry tourist visa and US$65 for multiple entries — both raised by US$5 in 2026. Fees are set by the Ministry of Interior and revised from time to time, so always confirm the amount shown on the portal before paying. You'll need a passport photo, a scan of your passport, and a credit card. Approval usually arrives by email within a few days. Print two copies to bring.

Visa on arrival

Visa-on-arrival eligibility depends on nationality and, in some cases, additional visas or residence documents. Do not assume all European or Gulf nationals qualify. Check visa2egypt.gov.eg or an Egyptian consulate for your individual requirements. The Egyptian Tourism Authority's 23 July 2026 announcement reports a US$30 standard single-entry visa fee, with an additional issuing fee for the digital option. Carry US-dollar cash as a fallback if using a bank counter; confirm the current fee and arrival-airport arrangements.

Digital visa on arrival (2026)

The Egyptian Tourism Authority's 23 July 2026 announcement describes a digital visa-on-arrival pilot at Cairo Airport arrival terminals from 1 August 2026, using an online portal, mobile app or self-service machines. It reports US$36 total: the US$30 visa fee plus a US$6 issuing fee. Each QR code is valid for 48 hours from issuance, not a requirement to obtain it 48 hours before landing. The announcement says paper stickers run alongside the pilot and other airports follow in stages; it does not confirm nationwide completion. Check participating-airport availability, nationality eligibility and current requirements at visa2egypt.gov.eg or with an Egyptian consulate before travel.

Sinai-only entry permit

Official Experience Egypt guidance describes a free entry stamp for eligible travelers arriving directly in Sharm El Sheikh, Nuweiba or Taba for stays of up to 15 days in South Sinai, including Dahab. It does not cover Hurghada or mainland trips. A visa is needed for a longer stay or travel beyond the permitted area; confirm nationality eligibility and your itinerary through the official Egyptian e-Visa portal or Egyptian consulate.

Passport requirements

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.
• At least one blank page for the entry stamp.
• Prior Israeli stamps are fine — Egypt has diplomatic relations with Israel.

Do I need a visa?

Entry requirements depend on your nationality, passport, residency and itinerary. We have not confirmed a blanket exemption for Gulf nationals or Lebanese residents. Consult the official Egyptian e-Visa portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg or an Egyptian consulate for the rules that apply to you; an e-Visa eligibility list is not the same as a visa-free list.