Egypt E-Visa Application Process for French Citizens

In this comprehensive article, we delve into the intricacies of the Egypt eVisa, mainly focusing on the prerequisites and procedures pertinent to citizens of France. We will explore the step-by-step process of applying for this visa, outline the essential requirements that applicants must fulfill, discuss the expected timeline for processing, and touch upon various other crucial aspects that French nationals should be aware of before embarking on their journey to Egypt.

Do French Citizens Need an E-Visa to Visit Egypt?

Yes, if you're holding a French passport, you'll need to ensure you've got an Egyptian visa sorted out before you land there. It's a must for a hassle-free entry. And hey, French folks need a tourist visa for those leisurely trips to Egypt. Just a heads-up to make your vacation planning smoother!

Egyptian E-Visa Application Requirements for French Citizens

1. Passport Validity: French applicants must have a passport valid for at least six months from entry into Egypt.
2. Blank Pages in Passport: At least two blank pages should be available in the passport for verification stamps.
3. Bio Page Photograph: Applicants need to provide a photograph of the bio page of their passport.
4. Active Email Address: An active email is required as the e-Visa application results will be sent to this address.
5. Payment Method: A current debit or credit card must pay the e-Visa processing fee.

Step-by-Step Egypt E-Visa Application Process for French Citizens

The online Egypt E-Visa application form is straightforward and requires the following information:

Step 1 - Registration

• Furnish Comprehensive Personal Information: It's crucial to meticulously input your full name, email address, telephone number, and the nation of your residence.
• Conclude the Verification Process: Successfully solve the captcha to confirm your human identity.

Step 2 - Applicant Details

• Introductory Section: Start by presenting yourself, including your full name. Mention the nation you originate from, your birthdate, and your gender. Make sure to specify the category of visa for which you are applying.
• Passport Details: In this section, you should elaborate on your passport specifics. It must cover the date of issuance, the date of expiration, and the distinctive number assigned to your passport.
• Additional Identity Information: If applicable, mention any other passports you hold, particularly in cases of dual nationality. Furthermore, it's essential to include information about your present employment status, marital status, and the nation you'll travel from.
• Journey Commencement Date: Clearly state the specific date on which you intend to start your travel.

Adding Other Applicants: If travelling with others, add their details too.

Step 3 - Add Documents and Submit

• Necessity of Clear Passport Copies: Providing a clear and readable copy of your passport is essential.
• Select an Appropriate Visa Processing Time: Choose between standard, expedited, or urgent processing for your visa based on your needs.
• Carefully Review All Information Provided: Meticulously verify the accuracy of each detail in your application before submission.
• Focus on Rectifying Mistakes: Give extra attention to correcting errors, particularly in names and dates.
• Maintain a Record of Your Application ID: Remember to note down the reference number of your application post-submission for future tracking purposes.

Step 4 - Payment

• Finalise Your Payment: Continue by using the payment method you have chosen.
• Monitor Your Application: Have your interim ID number ready to check the progress of your application.

Egypt E-Visa Application Fee for French Citizens

French citizens applying for an Egypt e-Visa must pay a mandatory government fee since France isn't on Egypt's exemption list for service fees. The service fee varies depending on the processing speed chosen:

• Regular service delivers the e-visa in three to seven business days.
• Urgent service provides it in two to five working days.
• Super Urgent service ensures delivery in just one to three working day.

Payments can be made electronically (Visa, American Express, MasterCard, PayPal) or via wire transfer to an HSBC account.

How Can French Citizens Apply for an Urgent Egypt E-Visa?

If you're hurrying to get your travel plans rolling, select the 'Urgent' or 'Super Urgent' visa processing options when applying for your e-visa. Yes, it does mean a bit extra in terms of fees, but here's the good part: your application jumps to the front of the line. This way, your e-visa wings reach you much faster, helping you tick off that crucial item on your travel checklist without the usual wait. So, if time's tight, this option is a real lifesaver!

How Can French Citizens Extend Their E-Visa to Egypt?

Tourist visa holders have two options to extend their stay if needed.

Option 1: Apply for a New e-Visa from Abroad:

• Leave Egypt and apply for a new e-Visa.
• E-Visa is a quick entry permit.
• Approval is usually within 1-2 days, but allow up to 7 days.
• No limit on the number of e-Visas, subject to meeting requirements.

Option 2: Extend Visa While in Egypt:

• Renew your visa in person; it is not available online.
• Visit the Ministry of the Interior’s office in Abbasiya, Cairo.
• Office hours: 8 am - 5 pm, closed Fridays and Saturdays for pickups.

Documents Required for In-Person Visa Extension

• Valid passport.
• Current e-Visa.
• Extension fees in cash.
• Egyptian address of stay.
• Passport-size photo.

Application Process in Egypt:

• First visit: Complete forms and submit documents, photos, fingerprints, and the first fee.
• Second visit: Pay remaining fees and receive visa extension.

Details of the Visa Extension:

• Extension duration: 3 months.
• Issued as a Foreign Residence Card, a plastic ID card.

Can French Citizens Obtain a Visa on Arrival in Egypt?

Visitors from France can obtain an Egyptian visa right at the entry point in Egypt. This visa allows them to remain in Egypt for up to one month. Travellers from France need to be aware that the validity of this visa is limited to 30 days from the issuance date. Additionally, it is mandatory for French nationals to personally apply for this visa as soon as they arrive in Egypt.

Things French Nationals Must Do After Arriving in Egypt

• Using popular ridesharing applications like Uber or Careem in Egypt is wise. These platforms provide an easy and effective way to travel, contrasting with the traditional taxi-hailing or arranging private car services on the streets.
• It's beneficial to have a variety of payment methods at your disposal while in Egypt. Relying exclusively on credit cards may only sometimes be a practical option.
• For personal safety, it is essential to avoid certain areas, especially those near the borders with Libya, Israel, and the Gaza Strip. The military closely monitors these regions and can present dangers to travellers.
• Upon your arrival in Egypt, it's mandatory to register with the local authorities within your first week. This process is generally more straightforward if you're staying in a hotel, as the hotel staff often manage it with your passport information. However, if you're staying in private accommodation, you must handle this registration.

FAQs