Russia to Add Egypt to e-Visa-Eligible Nationalities
Russia will soon include Egyptian citizens in its e-Visa program, expanding access for travelers and boosting tourism amid growing visa demand.
Russia is reporting a sharp rise in visa demand, driven by growing international interest in travel to the country. Official 2023 data shows a significant increase in visas issued by Russian diplomatic missions and foreign consulates. Now, the Russian e-Visa is set to expand eligibility to include Egyptian passport holders.
According to a report by Prensa Latina, over 840,000 traditional (paper) visas were issued in 2023—an increase from 510,000 in 2022.
Combined, paper and electronic visas now exceed one million issuances, including 221,000 granted to nationals from countries designated as unresponsive or hostile toward Russia.
Egypt Set to Join Russian e-Visa Program
Egypt is poised to be added to the list of nationalities eligible for the Russian e-Visa before the end of 2024, according to a spokesperson for Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development, Nikita Kondratiev. Authorities have described Egypt’s inclusion as a priority.
The Russian e-Visa is available to citizens from countries listed under Government Decree No. 2571-r dated October 6, 2020. Applications can be submitted online via the dedicated portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation (https://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru) or through an established visa agency.
The unified e-Visa permits entry for private, professional, or tourist visits, as well as participation in various scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic, or sports events. It is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and allows a maximum stay of 16 days upon entering Russia.
These visas are valid for entry and exit through most air, land, or sea border checkpoints across the Russian Federation.
