Visa to Egypt

Egypt's visa policy provides for standard entry procedures. Citizens of countries that do not have visa-free entry agreements with Egypt are required to apply for a visa in advance or receive an electronic equivalent. Holders of a Schengen visa can count on a simplified process for obtaining an Egyptian permit, since its presence serves as an additional basis for visa-free entry.

Egyptian visa holders receive a number of privileges, including the opportunity to move freely around the country, visit the main tourist, unique natural and cultural attractions.

The conditions for obtaining a visa may vary depending on the region and the purpose of the trip. It is most convenient to obtain a tourist permit in South Sinai and Sharm El-Sheikh, where a stay of 15 days is possible without a visa fee. For longer trips or visits to major cities such as Cairo, Hurghada or Alexandria, you need to apply for a standard tourist visa, which costs $25 and is available upon arrival. There is also a "Sinai stamp", which allows you to stay on the Sinai Peninsula for up to 15 days without a visa, but its use may limit access to popular tourist destinations.

Important

For many foreigners, Egypt's borders will be open for free entry in 2024. If the current citizenship allows, visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an electronic visa in advance, for example, on the eVisa portal. Upon arrival, it is enough to provide a valid passport with a validity period of at least six months from the date of visiting the country.  

Freelancer Visa

Egypt currently does not have an official visa for digital nomads or freelancers, as is implemented in some other countries. The idea of creating such a visa has been discussed, especially given the growing number of people working remotely. However, specific measures to implement this program have not yet been taken.

At the moment, freelancers or digital nomads who want to work in Egypt can use standard types of entry permits. For a long-term stay, even if there is work with remote clients, it is necessary to follow standard visa procedures.

How much does a visa cost?

One of the key issues is the price of registration. The most affordable option is a single–entry tourist visa. Its cost is $25. For those who are going to visit South Sinai, a stay of up to 15 days will be free.

A multiple–entry visa costs $80, and a one-year work visa costs $150. A resident visa costs from $30 to $50, whereas for the bride of a citizen of the country – $ 10.

Types of visas (types of visas)

Depending on the purpose of the trip, one of the following types of visas may be required:

• Tourist – for travelers who want to relax and explore the local attractions.
• Student – program is for both minors and adults who want to study at educational institutions in Egypt.
• Working – for those who are going to work legally on Egyptian territory.
• Business – for businessmen and specialists planning business trips, negotiations, contracts, etc.
• Bride's visa – is for foreign women who have signed a contract for marriage with an Egyptian citizen.
• Residential – for spouses of Egyptian citizens, as well as property owners.
• Professional – for journalists, diplomats, sailors and pilots. It is issued by the inviting party.

Student's

This type of permit is intended for foreign citizens who want to get an education in educational institutions of the country. The validity period of the document is 90 days with the possibility of extension. The visa is available for both minors and adult students.

Attention

If a visa is required for a child, one of the parents or guardian can apply for it for the period of study or until they reach the age of 18.

To apply for a student visa, you must submit documents confirming enrollment in an educational institution, as well as guarantees of your own financial stability for the duration of your studies. Students can choose from a variety of programs – from language courses to higher education, which makes Egypt an attractive destination for students and students from different countries.

Tourist

Foreigners can obtain this type of permit after they arrive in the country. The document costs $25, is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 3 months. If tourists travel only to the Sinai Peninsula (for example, to Sharm el-Sheikh) for up to 15 days, you do not need to apply for a visa - this option is called «Sinai Only».

In addition, you can also arrange an electronic analogue through special services. There is a single–entry visa worth $25 and a multiple-entry visa worth $60. To apply, you need to fill out a form and pay the visa fee. After that, you will receive an e-mail link to download the document, which you need to print out and present at passport control.

Business (for business trips)

When planning a trip to Egypt for business matters, you can apply for this type of permit. A business visa is an official document that is issued by the government through foreign representative offices. The main requirement is the presence of a specific purpose of the trip. With this document, the applicant can participate in conferences, meetings, negotiations, sign contracts and attend exhibitions.

Such visas can be single-entry and multiple-entry. A single one is valid for 3 months from the date of issue, and a multiple one is valid for six months. However, the total stay in the country should not exceed 30 days.

Working (to work legally in the country)

For legal employment, you need to have a work visa, which is issued through a consulate or special visa centers. It is issued for 1 year and costs $150.

Compared to other types of visas, obtaining a work visa is more difficult. To apply for it, you need a diploma of education certified by the Ministry of Justice. In addition, you need to issue an insurance policy and submit an invitation from an Egyptian company that will employ you.

Attention

The employer must prove that his company employs 11 Egyptian citizens for every foreign employee.

Required documents

The specific list of documents may vary depending on the type of document, so it is recommended to clarify the requirements in advance at the consulate or on the official portal.

To obtain a visa, you usually need to provide the following set of documents:

• A foreign passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country.
• A completed application form (application form) for a visa.
• Standard passport photos (usually 2-4 pieces).
• An invitation from an Egyptian company is required for a work or business visa.
• A diploma certified by the Ministry of Justice is required for a work visa.
• Confirmation of the availability of medical insurance for the entire period of stay.
• Confirmation of hotel reservation or rental accommodation.

Recent changes in the visa issue with Egypt

In mid-September 2023, a special supplement to Law No. 89 on the entry and residence of foreigners came into force. Previously, a fine was charged for exceeding the period of stay (30 days of visa + 14 more): 1655 EGP for the first three months of delay, then every three months the amount increased by 550 EGP.

With the new changes, foreigners who are in the country illegally now have 3 months to fulfill the following requirements: pay a state fee of $1,000, provide a receipt for the exchange of this money for EGP, and also provide a letter of guarantee from an Egyptian citizen.

Important

Those who apply for visas on time are not required to provide letters of guarantee and pay fines. The same applies to imperfect persons under the age of 16, pensioners and spouses of Egyptians.