Egypt E-Visa Application Process for Latvian Citizens

Egypt has recently expanded its e-Visa program, now offering electronic visa services to citizens of all European Union countries, including Latvia. This development marks a significant ease in the visa acquisition process for Latvian nationals, streamlining their travel preparations for Egypt. Unlike traditional visa processes, which often require a visit to the embassy, the e-visa system simplifies the procedure considerably. Latvian travellers need only a handful of essential documents to apply for their Egypt e-Visa, making the process more efficient and accessible.

To assist Latvian citizens in navigating this new system, we have compiled an informative article detailing the requirements and steps necessary to obtain an Egypt e-Visa. This guide aims to clarify the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for prospective travellers.

Types of Egypt e-Visa for Latvian Citizens

The Egyptian e-Visa system categorises visas based on the intended duration of stay in Egypt. Latvian citizens can opt for a single-entry visa, which remains valid for up to 30 days and is readily obtainable through an online application. 

A multiple-entry visa is also available for those planning multiple visits within six months. This visa allows multiple entries into Egypt, with each stay at most 30 days. This option is similarly accessible online.

For trips extending beyond six months, Latvian nationals must apply for a visa at an Egyptian embassy in Latvia before departure.

Egypt Visa Requirements for Latvian Citizens

To successfully secure an Egyptian visa, Latvian applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Possess a Latvian passport with a minimum validity of six months from the intended entry date into Egypt and at least two blank pages for stamp by immigration officials.
• Have an active email address for receiving the approved e-visa.
• Own a valid credit or debit card to pay the e-visa fee.

Egypt E-Visa Application Process for Latvian Citizens

The online application form is straightforward and requires the following information:

Step 1 - Registration

• Fill in Primary Information: Accurately enter your full name, email address, contact number, and country of origin.
• Complete Verification Test: Successfully finish the verification test to confirm your human identity.

Step 2 - Applicant Details

• Provide Detailed Personal and Journey Information: It's essential to specify your details, including your name, nationality, date of birth, gender, and the type of visa you're applying for.
• Submit Passport Details: Ensure you record information about your passport, such as its number and the date of issue and expiration.
• Include Supplementary Information: Where necessary, furnish additional details like any other passports or nationalities you hold, your professional status, marital status, and the country from which you'll be departing.
• Detail Your Travel Itinerary: Clearly state the date you plan to commence your travels.

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

Step 3 - Add Documents and Submit

• Passport Photo Upload: Make sure the image is crisp and easily readable.
• Visa Processing Selection: Opt for either the regular or fast-track service.
• Application Verification: Carefully review all the details to ensure they are correct.
• Final Review: Pay special attention to correct any inaccuracies, particularly in names and date entries.
• Confirmation of Application: Remember to record the given reference number for subsequent tracking after submitting.

Step 4 - Payment

• Proceed with Payment: Utilize your chosen payment method to settle the required fee.
• Record Application Information and Identification Number: Retain the provisional identification number for future reference and monitor your application's progress.

Egypt e-Visa Fees for Latvian Citizens

Understanding the fee structure is essential before proceeding with the payment. The Egypt e-Visa cost for Latvian citizens includes two components: the government fee, which is mandatory as Latvia is not exempt, and the service fee, which varies based on the processing speed selected. The processing options available are:

• Standard Service: Processing will take place within three business days.
• Urgent Service: Processing within two business days.
• Super Urgent Service: Processing within one business day.

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

When making haste with your travel arrangements, consider opting for the 'Urgent' or 'Super Urgent' processing choices during your e-visa application. Admittedly, this entails a slightly higher fee, but the benefit is significant: your application gains priority status. Consequently, the arrival of your e-visa is expedited, facilitating a quicker check-off of this essential task from your travel itinerary, bypassing the typical delay.

How Can Latvian Citizens Extend Their Egypt E-Visa?

Exploring the wonders of Egypt on a tourist visa and wish to extend your stay? You're in luck! There are two straightforward options available to elongate your Egyptian adventure. Understanding these can make your stay both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Option 1: Acquire a New e-Visa Outside Egypt

If you're considering this route, here's what you need to know:

• Procedure: Exit Egypt and apply for a fresh e-Visa.
• Convenience of e-Visa: It's a rapid-entry authorisation system designed for efficiency.
• Approval Timeline: Typically, approvals come within 1-2 days. However, planning for a 7-day window is prudent.
• Flexibility: There's no cap on the number of e-Visas you can obtain if you meet the criteria.

Option 2: Extend Your Visa Within Egypt

Prefer to extend your visa without leaving the country? Here's your guide:

• Method: Personal application is required; online renewal isn't an option.
• Where to Go: Head to the Ministry of the Interior’s office in Abbasiya, Cairo.
• Office Hours: They're open from 8 am to 5 pm, but note that Fridays and Saturdays are closed for pickups.

Gathering Your Documents for an In-Person Extension

Be prepared by having the following:

• Passport: Ensure it's valid.
• Current e-Visa: Have it ready for reference.
• Extension Fees: These should be paid in cash.
• Local Address: Provide your address in Egypt.
• Photograph: A passport-sized photo is necessary.

The Application Process in Egypt

It involves two visits:

• First Visit: Complete the necessary forms, submit your documents, photos, and fingerprints, and pay the initial fee.
• Second Visit: Settle any remaining payments and receive your visa extension.

Details on the Visa Extension

Understanding the extension you'll receive:

• Duration: The extension is valid for three months.
• Format: It's issued as a Foreign Residence Card, a tangible plastic ID card.

Can Latvian Citizens Obtain a Visa on Arrival in Egypt?

Yes, Latvian nationals can obtain an Egyptian visa upon their arrival. This type of visa, primarily intended for tourism purposes, allows for a brief stay, typically limited to 30 days, and must be utilised within 30 days of issuance. Personal presence is mandatory for Latvians when applying for this on-arrival visa in Egypt.

Things Latvian Citizens Must Do After Arriving in Egypt

• Installing well-known transportation apps like Uber or Careem is an excellent idea to enhance your mobility in Egypt. These applications are a handy and modern substitute for traditional taxis or car hire.
• When you're touring Egypt, having various payment methods is beneficial. Depending exclusively on credit cards may only sometimes be practical.
• For your security, avoid visiting areas that are known for safety concerns, such as the border regions adjacent to Libya, Israel, and the Gaza Strip. The military closely monitors these areas and can present dangers to tourists.
• Upon arriving in Egypt, it is compulsory to register with the local authorities within your first week. If you're staying in a hotel, this process is often streamlined. You can give your passport to the hotel staff, who will manage the police registration. If you're not staying at a hotel, take care of this critical registration yourself.

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