The Short Answer: Americans Need a Visa, But It’s Very Easy
US citizens are not visa-exempt for Egypt — but getting a visa is extremely straightforward. You have two options: apply for an eVisa online before you travel (recommended), or purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport. Both cost $25 USD and both give you a 30-day single-entry tourist visa.
Cost: $25 USD. Stay: up to 30 days. Options: eVisa online (3-5 days processing) or visa on arrival at Cairo Airport (5-10 minutes). No appointment needed. No background check beyond passport validity.
Option 1 vs Option 2: Which Should You Choose?
Get the eVisa. It takes 10 minutes to apply online, costs the same $25, and you skip the bank queue at the airport. At peak season, the visa-on-arrival bank line can add 20-30 minutes to your arrival. Apply at least a week before travel at visa.gov.eg (the official site only).
How to Apply for an Egypt eVisa — Step by Step
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Go to the official Egypt eVisa portal: visa.gov.eg
This is the only official government site. Beware of third-party sites charging higher fees — the official eVisa costs $25.
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Select “United States” as your nationality
The system will confirm you’re eligible for an eVisa. You’ll need a valid US passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates.
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Fill in your personal and travel details
Passport number, travel dates, destination hotel. Have your booking confirmation ready. The form takes about 10 minutes to complete.
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Pay the $25 USD fee
Visa and Mastercard accepted. The fee is non-refundable if you change your plans.
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Receive your eVisa by email
Typically within 3-5 business days. Print it out or keep a screenshot on your phone. You’ll present it at immigration alongside your passport.
Egypt Visa Details: What You Need to Know
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Cost | $25 USD (both eVisa and visa on arrival) |
| Stay permitted | Up to 30 days per entry |
| eVisa validity | 90 days from issue date (must enter within 90 days) |
| Entries | Single entry (standard tourist visa) |
| Multiple entry | Available — costs $60, requires additional documentation |
| Passport requirement | Valid 6+ months beyond travel dates |
| Extension possible? | Yes — extend at a Mogamma office in Cairo for a small fee |
At the Airport: Step-by-Step for Visa on Arrival
- Exit the plane and follow signs to immigration
- Stop at the Egyptian bank desk (before the immigration counters) — this is where you buy the visa sticker
- Pay $25 USD cash — exact change preferred. The teller will give you a visa sticker
- Stick it in your passport (in the blank page section) or the teller does it for you
- Join the immigration queue and present your passport with the visa sticker
- Immigration officer stamps your passport — you’re in. The whole process takes 10-25 minutes
The bank desk at Cairo Airport does not accept credit cards or Egyptian Pounds for visa payment. Bring $25 USD in cash — a single $20 + $5 bill works perfectly. ATMs are available after immigration if you need local currency.
Planning Your First Egypt Trip?
Our Egypt specialists build custom itineraries for American visitors — from Cairo to the Nile, Sharm to Aswan, free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. US citizens need a visa for Egypt. You have two easy options: (1) Apply for an eVisa online at visa.gov.eg for $25 USD before travel, or (2) Purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport for $25 USD cash. Both give a 30-day single-entry tourist stay.
Typically 3-5 business days. The eVisa is valid for 90 days from the issue date — you must enter Egypt within those 90 days, and your stay cannot exceed 30 days per entry. Apply at visa.gov.eg (official site only).
Yes. Cairo International Airport offers visa on arrival for US citizens 24/7. Pay $25 USD cash at the bank desk before the immigration counters. The process takes 5-15 minutes. No advance booking required.
Yes. If you want to stay longer than 30 days, visit the Mogamma government building in Tahrir Square, Cairo. You can extend for another 1-3 months. Bring your passport, photos, and a small fee (~$20-30 USD equivalent). This is rarely needed for tourist trips.
Yes. Egypt’s main tourist zones — Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada — are very safe for American tourists and see millions of visitors annually. The US State Department rates Egypt as “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” in tourist areas. Check travel.state.gov for the latest advisories.