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. Costs $30 USD for single-entry or $60 USD for multi-entry. 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

Most European, US, Canadian, Australian and Gulf nationals can buy a visa on arrival at any Egyptian international airport for $30 USD (single-entry). Bring cash — the bank counter is before immigration. Lines can be long during peak season.

Sinai-only entry permit

Free permit issued at Sharm El Sheikh and Taba airports for stays up to 15 days in South Sinai (Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba, but NOT St Catherine's or the mainland). Excellent option for Red Sea holidays; not suitable if you want to visit Cairo.

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?

Citizens of GCC countries generally don't need a visa. A short list of nationalities (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Lebanese with residency, etc.) enter visa-free. Everyone else should assume yes.