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Egypt Visa for United States Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

US citizens can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for Egypt at major entry points by paying 25 USD in cash; the visa is single-entry and valid for 30 days from entry.

Guide last updated September 3, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond date of entry.
  • Specific forms: No pre-arrival visa form required; you do not submit forms online in advance for the visa on arrival. You will pay the fee at the airport desk if needed.
  • Financial proof: There is no fixed minimum amount required for a visa on arrival. You should have access to sufficient funds to cover your stay and any related expenses; be prepared to show funds if asked.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Proof of onward/return ticket may be requested; have hotel reservations or contact details ready.
  • Photo spec: One passport-style color photo (2x2 inches / 51x51 mm) on a white background is commonly used; some airports may accept a photo on file from your passport, but carry a recent photo just in case.
  • Biometrics: No separate biometrics appointment; visa on arrival is processed at the airport immigration desk.
  • Travel health insurance: Not required for the visa, but travel health insurance is strongly recommended.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival: Official name: Tourist visa on arrival; Validity: 30 days from entry; Max stay: 30 days; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee: 25 USD.
  • Business visa on arrival: Official name: Business visa on arrival; Validity: 30 days from entry; Max stay: 30 days; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee: 25 USD.
  • Student visa: Official name: Student visa (not available on arrival); Availability: Not available at ports of entry; must be applied for online (e-visa) or via embassy; Typical terms vary (not applicable for visa on arrival).
  • Work visa: Official name: Work visa (not available on arrival); Availability: Not available at ports of entry; must be applied for via embassy/e-visa; Typical terms vary.

Visa on arrival

  • Ports of entry: Cairo International Airport (CAI), Hurghada International Airport (HRG), Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH) are common entry points.
  • How to apply: Upon arrival, proceed to the visa-on-arrival counter/immigration desk, present your passport, and pay the visa fee.
  • Fee and currencies: 25 USD in cash; Egyptian pounds may be accepted at some desks; carry exact amount and/or a little extra.
  • Steps: After payment, immigration stamps the visa into your passport; proceed to standard passport control to enter Egypt.
  • Queue tips: Arrive early, have your passport ready, and have the exact amount in USD if possible to speed the process.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: 25 USD (approximate); Local currency equivalent will vary; check current rates at the desk.
  • VFS/BLS service fee: Not applicable for visa on arrival; this only applies to embassy-based processing.
  • Total cost estimate: 25 USD per person for a 30-day single-entry visa on arrival.
  • Standard processing time: Immediate upon stamping; time mainly depends on queue length at the desk.
  • Express/priority: Not offered for visa on arrival.

Tips for United States travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: There is no pre-arrival visa application for visa on arrival; you can plan to obtain the visa at the port of entry. If you want to guarantee an option before travel, you can also apply for an e-visa via the official portal https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/; for up-to-date requirements, check the Egyptian MFA site.
  • Common rejection reasons (US applicants): Passport validity less than 6 months remaining; insufficient funds or unclear travel plans; lacking proof of onward travel; inconsistencies between passport data and travel plans.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy: Visa on arrival bypasses VFS/BLS; embassy/e-visa routes may be used for other visa types or if visa on arrival is not available for your nationality.
  • Travel advisories: Check the U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Egypt before travel; follow local laws and guidance.
  • Extension options inside Egypt: Visa extensions may be possible through the General Directorate of Passports, Immigration and Nationality in Cairo or at other GPINA offices; extensions typically require a fee and depend on local authority approval; plan ahead if you expect to stay longer than 30 days.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.