Egypt, a key destination in the Mediterranean basin and on the Red Sea, is restructuring its tourism policy for 2026. Faced with rapidly growing international demand - particularly from India, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan - the immigration authorities have introduced significant changes to entry fees.
Fees for electronic visas (e-visas) increase by 5$ US, for each type of e-visa.
Here are the old rates: 25$ (tourist visa - single entry) and 60$ (tourist visa - multiple entry).
The new Visa on Arrival (VoA) fee structure
Since the March 1, 2026, the Egyptian government has officially revised to the increases the cost of tourist visas issued on arrival.
The new tariff : The single-entry visa increases from 25$ to 30$ US.
Eligible travelers (citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and several Asian/Latin American countries) still get the usual green sticker, now accompanied by an additional sticker specifying ”+$5 / Surcharge Entry Visa Fee “.
This increase is in line with the country's digital transformation strategy. The revenues generated (estimated at an additional $50 million) are directly allocated to the development of “Smart Airports” infrastructures at Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada airports, aimed at streamlining border controls.
Our agency's advice: Bank counters at Egyptian airports do not accept Emirati dirhams, rupees or credit cards for this transaction. It is imperative to bring the exact amount in cash (30 $ US).
Visa on arrival vs. e-Visa
To avoid last-minute fees and long queues at immigration offices, our agency systematically recommends the online e-Visa procedure.
Here's a clear comparison to help you decide:
| Visa on arrival (VoA) | e-Visa (Online) |
| 30 $US (Cash only) - Single entry | 30$ US (Secure online payment) - Single entry |
| Not available on arrival - Multiple entries | 65$ US (Secure online payment) - Multiple entries |
Whether you opt for the electronic or physical format, it is crucial to respect the validity rules set by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism:
Validity of Tourist Visas - Valid for 90 days from date of issue
Single entry : Authorizes a maximum stay of 30 consecutive days.
Multiple inputs : Allows stays of up to 30 days per entry. Ideal for travelers planning land or sea excursions to Aqaba (Jordan) before returning to Egypt.
The Transit Visa opportunity
Excellent news for long-stay travellers (notably via EgyptAir): the government has extended the validity of the free 96-hour transit visa until April 2027. A perfect solution for visiting the Pyramids of Giza or the Great Egyptian Museum between international flights.
Tourism boom: the India, United Arab Emirates and Jordan axis
Egypt is witnessing a modified travel dynamic, driven by strategic markets:
Indian expatriates in the Emirates (Dubai / Abu Dhabi): These profiles make up a major proportion of visitors. Geographical proximity, combined with affordable direct flights, makes Egypt a popular destination for Indian families living in the UAE, whether for Ramadan school vacations or long weekends.
Jordanian and regional travelers : Demand for combined tours (Egypt-Jordan-Israel) requires greater flexibility, making multiple-entry visa options particularly attractive.
Business mobility : Many Gulf-based companies send technicians or auditors to Egypt on short notice, exposing their teams to visa queues on arrival.
Our agency's checklist for a stress-free arrival
To ensure that your file is in order and that border crossings run smoothly, here's what you need to prepare:
- Valid passport : At least 6 months validity remaining from the date of arrival in Egypt, with at least one blank page.
- Anticipation of e-Visa : Ideally, submit your request online 7 to 10 days before departure. Although the average processing time is 3 to 5 working days, busy periods (Gulf vacations, end-of-year celebrations) can extend this time.
- Supporting documents : Keep a printout of your e-Visa, hotel booking confirmation and return flight ticket. Travelers of certain nationalities (especially from outside the EU/North America) may be subject to stricter checks.
- Travel insurance : Although not strictly compulsory for everyone, medical cover (minimum 30,000 $) is strongly recommended by the consular authorities.
Our agency is at your disposal to take care of your entire project. Egyptian e-Visa approach, by ensuring a thorough check of your documents for fast, guaranteed approval.
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