When planning your journey to Egypt, it’s important to be aware of the official guidelines and entry requirements that ensure a smooth arrival, safeguard your comfort, and show respect for local laws and heritage. Every country has specific rules to protect visitors and its own cultural values — and Egypt is no exception.
Passport Requirement for Egypt
All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months from their date of arrival. This applies to every nationality, regardless of visa status. A passport serves as an official identification document allowing international travel and is issued by your country of citizenship.
Key Notes:
Minimum validity: 6 months from the arrival date.
Egyptian passports are valid for seven years from the date of issuance.
To obtain an Egyptian passport, nationals need an Egyptian National ID card or, for those under 16, a birth certificate.
The Egyptian passport ranking is relatively low for visa-free access compared to many other nations, so pre-checking destination requirements is crucial.
Visa Requirement for Egypt
A visa is an official permit that allows you to enter, leave, or stay in Egypt for a set period. While some travelers enjoy visa-free access, most require a visa, which can be obtained in several ways depending on nationality.
1. Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens from a limited number of countries can enter Egypt without a visa. Examples include:
Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia.
2. Visa on Arrival
All European countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, South Korea, Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine, United States, and others (availability may vary depending on the airport).
3. E-Visas
Egypt offers an official online portal for eligible travelers to apply for an e-visa in advance. Examples of eligible nationalities include:
European countries, Albania, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Russia, Serbia, Switzerland, Ukraine, United States, Vatican City.
4. Standard Visa Requirements
For most other nationalities, a visa must be obtained before arrival through an Egyptian embassy or consulate.
5. Special Security Approval
Citizens of certain countries require security clearance before visiting Egypt, including:
Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mauritania, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Yemen.
Special Notes and Exceptions
Work visas, transit visas, official, or diplomatic passports may have different rules.
Traveling to Sinai: If you already hold an Egyptian visa, you do not need an extra permit or payment for visiting Sinai.
Egypt issues single-entry and multiple-entry visas, depending on your travel needs.
Traveler’s Tip:
Always check the latest Egypt entry requirements before traveling, as rules can change without notice. Applying for an e-visa in advance is often the fastest and most convenient option.
