Egypt, a country that captivates millions of visitors annually with its cultural heritage, ancient monuments, and thriving tourism sector, also offers a burgeoning economy and promising business opportunities. With industries ranging from construction and oil to education and IT services, Egypt is a destination where many foreigners consider living and working.

So, the question remains: Can you work in Egypt with an eVisa? The short and clear answer is no. The Egyptian eVisa is not designed for employment purposes and is strictly for tourism, business meetings, or short-term visits.

Travelers who wish to work in Egypt must follow legal procedures, which typically involve securing a job offer from an Egyptian employer, obtaining a work permit, and applying for a proper work visa at an Egyptian embassy or consulate. While the eVisa allows you to enter Egypt for sightseeing or business-related visits, it cannot be used as a substitute for employment authorization. To ensure a smooth entry for permitted activities, visitors should apply for Egypt eVisa in advance.

What the Egypt eVisa Is For

The Egypt eVisa is an online-issued travel permit available to citizens of many countries. It is meant to make short-term entry into the country easier and quicker. Here’s what it typically covers:

Tourism

• Sightseeing, cultural tours, family visits, or leisure holidays.

Business Visits (Only Short-Term)

• Attending conferences, business meetings, trade fairs, or exploring investment opportunities without being formally employed in Egypt.

Transit

• In some cases, travellers may use the eVisa when passing through Egypt en route to another destination.

The eVisa is valid for short stays. Depending on the option chosen, travellers may receive a single-entry (usually allowing a stay of 30 days) or a multiple-entry visa that allows several visits within a specified period.

It's crucial to note that employment is not listed as a permitted purpose for the eVisa. The eVisa is strictly for tourism, short visits, and transit purposes.

Why You Cannot Work with an eVisa

No Employment Authorisation

The eVisa does not include permission for paid or unpaid work. It is only a visit authorisation for tourism purposes.

Legal Consequences

If caught working on an eVisa, a foreigner may face fines, deportation, or a ban from entering Egypt in the future. These consequences are serious and should not be taken lightly.

Employer Risks

Companies that employ foreigners without proper work permits can face severe penalties under Egyptian labour laws, making it a risky proposition for both the employer and the employee.

It's essential to recognise that using an eVisa for work purposes is not only illegal but also carries significant risks.

The Correct Path: Work Visa and Work Permit

If you genuinely want to work in Egypt, you need a work visa and a work permit. Unlike the eVisa, these documents are tied to an employment relationship with a local sponsor (employer).

Here’s what is usually required:

Sponsorship from an Employer

• A company in Egypt must offer you a job first.
• They act as your sponsor and apply on your behalf.

Work Permit Application

• The employer applies through the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower and Immigration.
• This includes submitting the employment contract, justification for hiring a foreign national, and other required legal documents.

Residence Permit

• Once the work permit is approved, it is tied to a residence permit, which allows you to live and work legally in Egypt for the contract period.

Penalties for Working on an eVisa

Foreigners who ignore the law and start working on an eVisa may face:

Fines and Deportation

• Immigration authorities can fine you and order immediate departure.
• In severe cases, you can also get detained.

Travel Ban

• You may be restricted from re-entering Egypt for a set period. 
• It may also make obtaining visas for other destinations difficult.

Employer Sanctions

• The company that hired you can also face legal consequences.