Most visitors need a tourist visa for Egypt, and for many nationalities it is quick and simple. You have two options: apply online before you travel (the e-visa, US$25) or buy it at the airport when you land (visa on arrival, US$30 since 1 March 2026). Both allow a stay of up to 30 days.
Here is everything you need to know, from the people who meet our guests at Cairo airport every day.
Option 1: the e-visa (recommended)
The e-visa is Egypt's official online visa. You apply on the government portal, visa2egypt.gov.eg, pay by card and receive the visa by email.
- Cost: US$25 for a single-entry tourist visa.
- Stay: up to 30 days.
- When to apply: at least 7 days before travel, to be safe.
- What you need: a passport scan, travel dates, hotel details and a payment card.
Print your e-visa and carry it with your passport. Use only the official portal. Other websites that look official charge extra fees for the same visa.
Option 2: visa on arrival
Citizens of many countries, including the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the European Union, can buy a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports.
- Cost: US$30, paid in cash (US dollars, euros or pounds sterling) at a bank counter before passport control. This price rose from US$25 on 1 March 2026.
- Stay: up to 30 days.
- Tip: bring clean, undamaged notes in the exact amount.
When you travel with Lilly Tours, our representative meets you before passport control and helps you buy the visa and fill in the arrival card.
Which option should I choose?
The e-visa is now the cheaper option and saves time in the queue. The visa on arrival is a good backup if you forget or your e-visa is delayed. Either way, the entry stamp is the same.
Passport rules
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your arrival date and have at least one blank page. Children need their own passports.
Do I need a visa for Sharm el Sheikh only?
If you fly directly to Sharm el Sheikh and stay in the South Sinai resorts (Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba), you can usually get a free Sinai-only entry stamp for up to 15 days. You cannot visit Cairo, Luxor or the rest of Egypt on this stamp. If you plan to leave Sinai, buy the full visa.
Nationalities that need a visa in advance
Some nationalities cannot use the e-visa or the visa on arrival and must apply at an Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel. Check the eligibility list on the official portal for your passport, or ask us and we will check for you.
Can I extend my visa?
Yes. Tourist visas can be extended at the passport office in Cairo (Abbasiya) or at regional offices. Ask your guide or our team for help.
Quick checklist
- ☐ Passport valid for 6+ months, with a blank page
- ☐ E-visa printed, or US$30 cash for visa on arrival
- ☐ Travel insurance with medical cover
- ☐ Hotel or tour confirmation
Visa fees and rules can change. Information checked in October 2026. Always confirm on the official portal before you fly.
Have more questions? See our Egypt travel FAQ, or contact our team. Ready to plan? Browse our Egypt tour packages.
