Egypt Visa
Travel Requirements

Egypt travel requirements

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, it’s important to know the travel requirements before you go. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey:

  1. COVID-19 Requirements
  2. Visa Requirements
  3. Health Insurance
  4. Currency
  5. Culture and Etiquette

COVID-19 Requirements

You do not need to show a COVID vaccination certificate or negative COVID test to enter Egypt.

Health officials may screen you for COVID symptoms on arrival. They may also randomly select travellers for rapid antigen testing

Visa requirements

Passport validity

If you are visiting Egypt, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

If you are a resident in Egypt, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Visas

Most foreign passport holders need a tourist or business visa to enter Egypt. Egypt has introduced an ‘e-visas’ system through which applications can be submitted and approved online in advance of travel.

E-Visa Elegible Countries:

All EU citizens  

 Albania

 Andorra

 Antigua and Barbuda

 Argentina

 Armenia

 Australia

 Azerbaijan

 Bahamas

 Barbados

 Belize

 Benin

 Bhutan

 Bolivia

 Brazil

 Brunei

 Cambodia

 Chile

 China

 Colombia

 Costa Rica

 Cuba

 Dominica

 Dominican Republic

 Ecuador

 El Salvador

 Fiji

 Georgia

 Grenada

 Guatemala

 Guinea

 Guyana

 Haiti

 Honduras

 Iceland

 Jamaica

 Japan

 Jordan

 Kazakhstan

 Kiribati

 Laos

 Liechtenstein

 Maldives

 Marshall Islands

 Mexico

 Micronesia

 Monaco

 Mongolia

 Nauru

   Nepal

 New Zealand

 Nicaragua

 North Korea

 North Macedonia

 Norway

 Palau

 Panama

 Papua New Guinea

 Paraguay

 Peru

 Russia

 Saint Lucia

 Saint Vincent & Grenadines

 Samoa

 San Marino

 São Tomé and Príncipe

 Saudi Arabia

 Serbia

 Seychelles

 Singapore

 Solomon Islands

 South Africa

 South Korea

 South Sudan

 Suriname

 Taiwan

 Timor-Leste

 Tonga

 Trinidad and Tobago

 Turkey

 Tuvalu

 Ukraine

 United Kingdom

 United States

 Uruguay

 Vanuatu

 Vatican City

 Venezuela

Health insurance

When traveling to Egypt, it is essential to have comprehensive health insurance that will cover any medical expenses incurred while abroad. Egyptian healthcare facilities can be of varying standards, and private hospitals tend to be expensive, especially for foreign nationals. In the event of an emergency, it’s crucial to have reliable health insurance to avoid being stuck with a hefty medical bill or being denied treatment due to lack of funds.

Moreover, the risk of contracting an illness or experiencing an accident while traveling is always present, and being prepared with a valid health insurance policy is the best way to ensure that you receive adequate medical care. Travelling without health insurance is simply not worth the risk, as it can lead to unforeseen financial hardship during an already stressful situation.

In Egypt, medical treatment for serious conditions can require medical evacuation to neighboring countries and this can be incredibly expensive. With reliable health insurance in place, visitors can be assured that they can access the necessary medical treatment that they need without any significant financial strain. Thus, the peace of mind that comes with having comprehensive health insurance during your travels to Egypt is essential to enjoy your holiday, remain safe, and avoid any disruptions caused by unexpected medical expenses.

Currency

Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). It’s relatively easy to exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and authorized Forex dealers in tourist areas, major towns, and cities. US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country. 

If you prefer to use your credit card while traveling in Egypt, then it’s best to carry one that has a Visa or Mastercard logo. Most of Egypt’s high-end hotels, tour companies, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, but smaller establishments in rural areas may not. Bear in mind that many Egyptian businesses will add a 35% surcharge for credit card transactions, so it can be a good idea to carry cash as a backup.

Overall, it’s advisable to carry both Egyptian Pounds and US dollars in cash when traveling to Egypt. You can exchange your foreign currency for Egyptian Punds at banks and Forex bureaus or withdraw money from ATMs. Nevertheless, be sure to notify your bank that you will be traveling to Egypt before your trip to ensure uninterrupted access to your funds while  abroad.

Culture and Etiquette

Egypt is a culturally diverse country with a rich history and tradition, and it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Egyptians are generally warm and friendly people who value hospitality and appreciate visitors who show an interest in their culture. When interacting with locals, it’s important to greet them appropriately. Handshakes are the most common form of greeting in Egypt, and it’s customary to use the right hand when shaking hands or passing something to someone. It’s also advised to use appropriate titles like Mr., Mrs., or Doctor when addressing someone.

In Egypt, modest clothing is the norm, particularly in rural areas or when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, particularly shorts or revealing tops, to show respect for local customs and avoid unwanted attention. Additionally, public displays of affection between couples are frowned upon, so consider being discreet about physical affection while in public.

When visiting someone’s home or a local community, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. You may also be offered food and drink during visits, and it’s customary to accept these offers to show appreciation and respect for local hospitality.

When eating, use your right hand to eat or pass food and avoid allowing your feet to point towards anyone, as this is considered disrespectful.

Overall, being respectful of local customs and practicing a few basic cultural norms will go a long way towards fostering good relationships between travelers and Egyptians. By being mindful of local traditions and etiquette, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Egyptian culture and have a more fulfilling experience while exploring this fascinating country.

eVisa details

  • Maximum visit: 7 / 90 days; up to 1 year
  • Multiple entries: optional
  • Processing: in 72 hours
  • Requires: Passport, Return flight ticket