The Egypt eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that lets eligible travelers apply online for entry into Egypt without visiting an embassy. Single-entry eVisas cost $25 and multiple-entry eVisas cost $60, with a 30-day stay limit and 90-day validity from the date of issue. This guide covers everything you need to know – from eligibility and fees to the step-by-step application process, required documents, and common mistakes to avoid.
Egypt introduced its eVisa system in 2017 to simplify the visa process for tourists and business visitors. Instead of queuing at Egyptian embassies or waiting at airport visa counters, eligible nationals can complete the entire process online through the official portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg. The system processes most applications within 5-7 business days, though some approvals arrive in as little as 48 hours.
Whether you are planning a trip to see the Pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile, or attend a business conference in Cairo, understanding the eVisa process will save you time and stress at the border.
What Is the Egypt eVisa?
The Egypt eVisa (electronic visa) is a digital travel permit issued by the Egyptian government. It replaces the traditional sticker visa that travelers previously obtained from Egyptian embassies and consulates. Once approved, the eVisa arrives as a PDF document via email. You print it out and present it to immigration officers when you arrive in Egypt.
The eVisa is available for tourism and business purposes only. If you are traveling for work, study, or diplomatic reasons, you will need to apply through an Egyptian embassy or consulate instead.
Key eVisa Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost (single entry) | $25 USD |
| Cost (multiple entry) | $60 USD |
| Stay per entry | Up to 30 days |
| Validity | 90 days from issue |
| Processing time | 5-7 business days |
| Official portal | visa2egypt.gov.eg |
| Passport validity | 6+ months beyond arrival date |
| Entry type | Single or multiple entry |
Who Is Eligible for the Egypt eVisa?
Not every nationality can apply for the Egypt eVisa. The system is currently available to citizens of approximately 74 countries. The eligible list includes most European Union nations, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and several others.
Eligible Countries (Major Nationalities)
| Region | Eligible Countries |
|---|---|
| North America | United States, Canada |
| Europe | United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Poland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Greece, Ireland, and more |
| Asia-Pacific | Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, China, India |
| Middle East | Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar |
| Africa | South Africa |
| South America | Brazil, Argentina, Chile |
If your country is not on the eligible list, you will need to apply for a traditional visa at the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Some nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival instead – read our guide on Egypt visa on arrival for full details.
Countries That Do NOT Need a Visa
Citizens of a few countries can enter Egypt visa-free for short stays. These include:
- Hong Kong (up to 30 days)
- Jordan (up to 3 months)
- Lebanon (up to 3 months)
- Libya (up to 3 months)
- Malaysia (up to 3 months)
If you hold a passport from one of these nations, you do not need to apply for an eVisa at all.
Egypt eVisa Fees: Single vs Multiple Entry
The Egyptian government charges a straightforward fee structure for eVisas:
| Entry Type | Fee (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single entry | $25 | One-time tourist visit |
| Multiple entry | $60 | Business travelers, multiple trips within 90 days |
The fee is paid online during the application process using a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro). The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Some travelers report slightly different prices ($28-$30 for single entry) depending on payment processing fees charged by their bank.
Important: The official eVisa portal charges only the amounts listed above. If a third-party website quotes you $60-$100+ for an eVisa, that site is likely a middleman charging a service fee on top of the government fee. Always use the official portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg.
Egypt eVisa vs Visa on Arrival: What Is the Difference?
Travelers to Egypt have two convenient options beyond embassy applications: the eVisa and the visa on arrival (VOA). Here is how they compare:
| Factor | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Apply from | Home (online) | Airport in Egypt |
| Cost | $25 single / $60 multiple | $25 single only |
| Processing | 5-7 days | Instant (at counter) |
| Multiple entry | Available ($60) | Not available |
| Payment method | Credit/debit card | Cash USD preferred |
| Risk of denial | Before travel | At arrival |
The eVisa has a clear advantage: you know your visa status before you board your flight. With a visa on arrival, there is always a small risk of delays or issues at the airport. The eVisa also offers a multiple-entry option, which the VOA does not.
For a detailed comparison, see our article on Egypt eVisa vs visa on arrival.
How to Apply for the Egypt eVisa: Step-by-Step
Applying for the Egypt eVisa takes about 15-20 minutes. Here is the exact process:
Step 1: Create an Account on the Official Portal
Go to visa2egypt.gov.eg and click “Apply for eVisa.” You will need to provide:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Email address
- Password for your account
Step 2: Fill in the Application Form
The form asks for:
- Personal details: Date of birth, nationality, gender
- Passport information: Passport number, issue date, expiry date
- Travel details: Expected arrival date, purpose of visit, accommodation address in Egypt
- Employment information: Current occupation and employer
Tip: Double-check your passport number and expiry date. A single digit error can result in denial or problems at immigration.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
You will need:
- Passport bio page scan – Clear, color scan or photo showing your full name, photo, passport number, and expiry date
- Recent passport-style photo – Some applicants are asked for this, though it is not always required
- Flight booking – Proof of return or onward travel
- Hotel reservation – Or a letter of invitation if staying with someone
Step 4: Pay the Fee
Use a Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro card to pay the $25 or $60 fee. The transaction is processed securely through the portal.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Most applications are processed within 5-7 business days. Some travelers receive approval within 48 hours. During peak travel seasons (October-March), processing may take longer. Apply at least 7 days before your departure date to be safe.
Step 6: Download and Print Your eVisa
Once approved, you will receive an email notification. Log in to your account, download the eVisa PDF, and print at least two copies. Present one to immigration on arrival and keep the second as a backup.
Egypt eVisa Requirements: What Documents Do You Need?
Before you start your application, gather these documents:
| Document | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Egypt. Must have 1-2 blank pages. |
| Passport scan | Color scan or high-quality photo of the bio-data page. JPEG or PDF format. |
| Photo | Recent passport-style photo (white background, 4.5cm x 3.5cm). Not always required but recommended. |
| Payment card | Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro credit/debit card for online payment. |
| Email address | Active email to receive the eVisa PDF. |
Passport Validity Rules
Egypt enforces a strict passport validity rule. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival. For example, if you plan to arrive in Egypt on March 15, 2026, your passport must not expire before September 15, 2026. Airlines will deny boarding if your passport does not meet this requirement.
If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying for the eVisa. An approved eVisa attached to an expiring passport is useless.
Photo Requirements
While the eVisa application does not always ask for a photo upload, having one ready is wise:
- Size: 4.5cm x 3.5cm (passport standard)
- Background: White or light-colored
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Format: JPEG, maximum 1MB
For the full list of specifications, see our guide on Egypt visa photo requirements.
Egypt eVisa Processing Time
The standard processing time for the Egypt eVisa is 5-7 business days. However, several factors can affect this:
| Factor | Impact on Processing |
|---|---|
| Peak season (Oct-Mar) | May take 7-10 days |
| Incomplete application | Rejected or delayed |
| Wrong document format | Requires resubmission |
| Nationality | Some nationalities face additional screening |
Tips to Avoid Delays
- Apply early – Submit your application at least 7-14 days before travel
- Use clear scans – Blurry passport photos are a common cause of rejection
- Match your passport exactly – Name on the application must match your passport character-for-character
- Check your email – The government may request additional documents
For more details on processing timelines and what to do if your application is taking too long, see our article on Egypt visa processing time.
Egypt eVisa Application Tips and Common Mistakes
After reviewing hundreds of traveler experiences, these are the most frequent mistakes that lead to eVisa delays or denials:
Mistake 1: Name Mismatch
Your eVisa application name must match your passport exactly. If your passport shows “Mohammed Al-Rashid,” do not write “Mohamed Al Rashid” or “M. Al-Rashid.” Even small differences in hyphens, spaces, or transliterations can cause issues.
Mistake 2: Wrong Passport Expiry Date
Entering the wrong expiry date is surprisingly common. Check your passport twice before typing. If the date is wrong, the eVisa will not match your passport at immigration.
Mistake 3: Applying Too Late
The biggest risk is applying only 1-2 days before departure. If processing takes the full 7 business days (or longer during peak season), you could board your flight without an approved visa. Always apply at least 7 days ahead.
Mistake 4: Using Third-Party Services
Many websites look official but are actually third-party agencies that charge $60-$100+ for what should be a $25 visa. The only official portal is visa2egypt.gov.eg. Other sites may charge “processing fees” or “service charges” on top of the government fee.
Mistake 5: Not Printing the eVisa
The eVisa is a PDF document. You must print it and carry a physical copy. Showing the eVisa on your phone screen is not universally accepted at Egyptian immigration. Print two copies as a backup.
What to Expect at Egyptian Immigration
When you arrive in Egypt with your eVisa, here is the process:
- Proceed to passport control – Join the foreign nationals queue
- Present your documents – Hand over your passport and printed eVisa
- Immigration officer review – They will verify your eVisa against your passport details
- Entry stamp – The officer stamps your passport with the entry date
- Collect your luggage – Proceed to baggage claim
The entire process usually takes 15-30 minutes, depending on how many flights have arrived. Having your eVisa printed and ready significantly speeds things up.
At Cairo International Airport
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main entry point for most visitors. The airport has three terminals:
- Terminal 2 – Most international flights
- Terminal 3 – EgyptAir and Star Alliance partners
- Terminal 1 – Some domestic and regional flights
Each terminal has its own immigration hall. Follow signs for “Passport Control” and “Visa” after landing.
Egypt eVisa vs Embassy Visa
For some travelers, applying at an Egyptian embassy is still necessary or preferred. Here is a comparison:
| Factor | eVisa | Embassy Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $25 / $60 | $67 single / $92 multiple |
| Processing | 5-7 days | 7-14 days |
| Application | Online | In person at embassy |
| Passport submission | No | Yes (sometimes) |
| Best for | Tourists, business visitors | Long-term stays, work, study, non-eligible nationalities |
The eVisa is faster, cheaper, and more convenient. The embassy visa is only necessary if your nationality is not on the eVisa eligibility list or if you need a visa type not available online (work visa, student visa, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Egypt eVisa
Can I extend my eVisa while in Egypt?
The eVisa itself cannot be extended. However, you can apply for a visa extension at the Mogamma building in Tahrir Square, Cairo (or at immigration offices in other cities). Extensions are granted for an additional 30 days and cost approximately EGP 615. You must apply before your current visa expires.
What happens if my eVisa application is denied?
If your eVisa is denied, you will receive an email notification. The fee is non-refundable. You can reapply with corrected information or apply for a traditional visa at an Egyptian embassy. Common denial reasons include passport validity issues, name mismatches, or missing documents.
Do children need their own eVisa?
Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age, needs their own eVisa. This includes infants and children. Each child must have their own passport and a separate eVisa application filed on their behalf by a parent or guardian.
Can I use the eVisa at any Egyptian port of entry?
Yes. The eVisa is accepted at all Egyptian international airports (Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Luxor, Aswan, Marsa Alam) and at the Taba land border crossing from Israel. It is also accepted at the port of Alexandria for cruise passengers.
Is the Egypt eVisa a single entry or can I leave and re-enter?
The $25 eVisa is single-entry only. Once you leave Egypt, it is no longer valid. If you plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Egypt (for example, a side trip to Jordan or a Sinai excursion that crosses into Israel), you need the $60 multiple-entry eVisa or a second single-entry eVisa.
Can I apply for the eVisa on behalf of someone else?
Yes. You can fill out the application for a family member or travel companion, as long as you have all their passport details and documents. Each application is linked to an individual passport.
What currency is the eVisa fee charged in?
The fee is displayed and charged in US Dollars (USD). Your bank may convert this to your local currency at their prevailing exchange rate, and may add a small foreign transaction fee.
Do I need to show proof of accommodation for the eVisa?
Yes, the application requires you to provide your accommodation address in Egypt. This can be a hotel name and address, or the address of a host if you are staying with someone. A hotel booking confirmation is recommended.
Next Steps
Now that you understand the Egypt eVisa process, here are some helpful resources to continue planning your trip:
- How to Apply for Egypt eVisa Online – Detailed walkthrough with screenshots
- Egypt Visa Requirements – Full document checklist
- Egypt Visa Fee 2026 – Complete cost breakdown
- Egypt Visa on Arrival – Alternative option at the airport
Remember: Always use the official portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg to apply. The Egypt eVisa is the fastest, cheapest, and most reliable way to secure your travel authorization before departure. Apply at least 7 days before your trip, double-check all details against your passport, and print two copies of your approved eVisa.
