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Egypt eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival: The easier way to travel to Egypt
iVisa
5 min read
Updated on Feb 16, 2024

Important information - The Egypt Visa on Arrival has currently been suspended. The suspension applies to US Green Card holders and US citizens; they cannot currently get a Visa on Arrival in Egypt. They should apply for the Egpyt eVisa before their trip to ensure entry to the country. This is recommended for tourism purposes.

Exploring the mystique of Egypt begins with choosing the correct visa. Most travelers to Egypt have two primary options without visiting an embassy: the Egypt eVisa and the Egypt Visa on Arrival. Each option offers unique benefits and processes, but understanding their differences is key to a hassle-free journey.

This article will delve into the specifics of both visa types, helping you decide which Egypt visa suits your travel needs for an unforgettable Egyptian adventure. Let’s unravel the application process and prepare for this trip!

egypt kings valley

Egypt eVisa: Apply online for your Egypt visa

The Egypt eVisa, an electronic visa, simplifies the application process and allows entry into Egypt for tourism, business, or medical purposes. It's a modern alternative to traditional visas, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate​​. It gives you the convenience of applying online and securing a visa before departure. Travel with the peace of mind that your arrival will go smoothly.

Eligible criteria to apply for an Egypt eVisa

The eVisa is available to citizens of over 74 countries, including all EU member states, the UK, and the USA. Travelers can check their eligibility using the Visa Checker Tool. Tourists from the United States, the European Union, or the United Kingdom visiting Sinai Red Sea resorts for up to 14 days don’t require a visa. Still, a visa is necessary for traveling beyond these areas​​.

How to apply for an Egypt eVisa

Applying for an Egypt eVisa is a straightforward and efficient process. In just three simple steps, which you can complete in 15 minutes or less, you can secure your Egypt eVisa online:

  1. Provide your contact and travel info on our website or use the iVisa app. Select your preferred processing time and pay the visa fees.

  2. Complete the rest of your Egypt eVisa application form and provide a scan of your passport.

  3. Submit your application. You’ll receive your Egypt eVisa within the chosen timeframe. Print a copy and keep a digital version on your mobile device for ease during travel.

Find all the details about the Egypt eVisa application here.

egypt charm view

Getting an Egypt Visa on Arrival

The Egypt Visa on Arrival is also an alternative to Embassy visas. This process is relatively simple, and you can apply at certain Egyptian airports when you arrive in the country. You don’t need to worry about visa application before the trip, but it’s a risky choice. If anything goes wrong, you may not be allowed to enter Egypt. Be prepared to face long lines at the airport.

Eligibility criteria for the Egypt Visa on Arrival

Like the eVisa, citizens of many countries, including the U.S. and the UK, are eligible for the Visa on Arrival. Since the list of eligible countries may change yearly, we recommend consulting the nearest Embassy of Egypt for updated information. Besides your nationality, you must consider arriving in Egypt at one of the following airports to get an Egypt Visa on Arrival:

  • Cairo International Airport, Cairo

  • Hurghada International Airport, Hurghada

  • St Catherine International Airport, St Catherina

  • Borg El Arab International Airport, Alexandria

  • Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

  • Luxor Airport International Airport

How to apply for an Egypt Visa on Arrival

The Egypt Visa on Arrival process offers flexibility for travelers who haven’t secured a visa beforehand. However, note that getting a visa on arrival can involve waiting in queues, and there is no prior guarantee of visa approval, making it less predictable than the eVisa option. Follow these steps to apply for this visa type:

  1. Arrive at an Egyptian airport and find the bank kiosks within airport arrival halls.

  2. Complete the visa application form and provide the necessary paperwork to the immigration officer.

  3. Pay the visa fee in USD, pounds sterling, or euros, with USD preferred​​. The cost for a single-entry visa is US$25, and US$60 for a multiple-entry one.

Egypt eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival

Choosing between the Egypt eVisa and the Visa on Arrival is a key decision for travelers to Egypt. While both facilitate entry into this historic land, they differ notably in application process, convenience, and predictability.

  • Application process: The e-Visa offers a seamless online application, ensuring you have your visa before departure​​. In contrast, the Visa on Arrival requires applying upon reaching Egypt, which can involve waiting and uncertainty​​.

  • Eligibility: The eVisa is available to over 74 countries, making it accessible to a broader audience​​. The Visa on Arrival is also widely available but has specific conditions for some nationalities​​.

  • Convenience and predictability: The eVisa is processed quickly and efficiently online, providing a stress-free experience​​. The Visa on Arrival doesn’t require applying in advance but entails airport queues and lacks the pre-trip assurance of an approved visa​​.

  • Cost: The eVisa and Visa on Arrival have the same government fees. In summary, the eVisa generally stands out as the better option due to its convenience, ease of application, and greater predictability, making it a preferred choice for a hassle-free visit to Egypt.

Advantages of getting your Egypt eVisa with us

At iVisa, we offer a unique and user-friendly approach to getting your Egypt eVisa. While it's possible to apply directly via the government's official site, we enhance this process with several key benefits:

  • iVisa experts review: Our team meticulously reviews each application to ensure completion and accuracy. This attention to detail helps avoid common pitfalls and errors, increasing the chances of approval.

  • Streamlined application form: Navigating the government's website can often involve complex and lengthy questions. We simplify the process with a clear, concise form that feels more like a quick questionnaire than a cumbersome government document.

  • Flexible form completion: Complete the form at your leisure, edit your responses as needed, and save your progress. This contrasts with the government site, which may have time-out sessions, potentially requiring you to start over if you take a break.

By choosing our services to get your Egypt eVisa, you're not just applying for a visa but ensuring a more accessible and hassle-free experience.

Have questions about the Egypt eVisa? Contact us

Contact our dedicated customer support team if you have questions or need further assistance with your Egypt eVisa application. We’re always prepared to assist you. Reach out to us via our online chat or email us at [email protected].

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://emoves.moi.gov.eg/en/AboutUs

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