Egypt Visa on Arrival: Entry Requirements, Documentation, Visa Eligibility

Since its inception, the Egypt eVisa has emerged as the preferred method for travellers seeking a short-term visit to Egypt. This electronic visa system streamlines the process, contrasting with the traditional Egyptian visa-on-arrival (VoA) method, which, while still operational, presents certain unpredictabilities and complexities.

Historically, the Egypt tourist visa on Arrival was convenient, sparing travellers the extended application processes at embassies. It required visitors to carry the necessary documents and application fee during their flight, simplifying entry into Egypt.

However, the on-the-spot nature of the Visa on Arrival can lead to unforeseen complications. Comprehensive information about the on-arrival visa, including eligibility criteria, conditions, and associated costs, is crucial to navigate these potential challenges.

Eligibility for Visa on Arrival in Egypt

The Egyptian Visa on Arrival remains accessible to eligible tourists, including citizens of the European Union, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States. Eligibility demands holding a passport from these countries and meeting specific entry conditions. Additionally, certain nationalities may require a valid visa from the Schengen Area, the US, the UK, Japan, or New Zealand for VoA eligibility.

Note:

Travel enthusiasts hailing from the United States, European Union countries, or the United Kingdom who have set their sights on the captivating resorts along the Sinai Red Sea can enjoy a streamlined entry process. If their stay is confined to up to 14 days, they are exempt from the customary visa requirements, allowing them to quickly soak in the region's beauty and culture. 

However, this exemption is specifically tailored for the Sinai Red Sea resorts; if these globe-trotters wish to extend their adventures beyond these picturesque boundaries, they should remember that a visa becomes an essential document for their journey.

Procedure for Obtaining a Visa on Arrival

A passport is essential for U.S. citizens to request a Visa on Arrival. Certain EU citizens, including those from Belgium, France, and Italy, can present their national ID card instead. Those using an ID card must also provide passport-sized photographs for the visa.

This visa type is issued upon arrival in Egyptian territory and cannot be applied for beforehand. Upon landing, travellers must locate the designated visa desk at the airport and visit the immigration office. Egyptian border officials will issue the visa, affixing a visa sticker to the traveller’s passport, which must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months.

The Visa on Arrival is available at multiple entry points across Egypt, with Cairo Airport and Hurghada Airport being popular choices. It permits a stay of up to 30 days and is a single-entry visa. 

Visa on Arrival Entry Points

The Visa on Arrival can be obtained at various Egyptian airports and entry points, including: 

• Cairo International Airport
• Hurghada International Airport
• St Catherine International Airport
• Borg El Arab International Airport
• Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
• Luxor Airport International Airport.

Cost of an Egyptian Visa on Arrival

A single-entry tourist visa costs approximately USD, while a multiple-entry visa costs around USD, payable in US dollars, Euros, or British Pounds. Travellers should be cautious about overstaying, which could lead to penalties or complications. Travellers are advised to carry the exact amount to prevent delays. Cash payments are accepted; credit or debit card payments are not permitted. Currency exchange facilities may be available but with potentially unfavourable rates.

It's important to remember that possessing a valid passport and paying the visa fee does not guarantee entry. The final decision rests with the Egyptian authorities, and visas may be denied based on various factors. Consequently, many visitors opt for the online eVisa application for its convenience and certainty.

Who Requires a Visa on Arrival?

The Visa on Arrival is an option, not a mandate. Most travellers eligible for it are also suitable for the e-Visa, which is generally considered a more straightforward and secure alternative.

Most foreign nationals require some form of visa to enter Egypt, with only a few countries (Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Malaysia) exempt from this requirement. For more detailed information, Egyptian consulates worldwide can be consulted.

Differences Between Visa on Arrival and Egypt e-Visa

Eligible nationals can opt for either the on-arrival visa or the e-visa. The on-arrival visa has drawbacks, such as potential long airport queues, payment restrictions to specific currencies, and the risk of entry denial. In contrast, the e-visa offers advantages like easy online application, payment via card, and pre-approved entry.

The requirements for both visas are similar, including having a valid passport and paying an application fee. The visa process also requires an email address for receiving application updates and the approved visa in PDF format.

Visa On Arrival Countries

Notes:

1. Sudan passport holders can get an Egypt Visa On Arrival if they have a residence permit issued by Australia, Canada, USA, or an EU Member State.
2. Turkey passport holders can get an Egypt Visa On Arrival if they are 45 and above or 18 years of age and below.
3. Resident Permit holders issued by a GCC Member State can get an Egypt Visa On Arrival if they have at least six more months left on the residence permit.

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