Cairo Airport Visa on Arrival: Requirements, Costs & Process 2026

Understanding Cairo Visa on Arrival

Most international visitors to Egypt can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport. This convenient option eliminates the need to visit an embassy before your trip, making your travel planning much simpler.

Who is Eligible?

Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport. Here's what you need to know:

Eligible Countries List

The following countries' citizens qualify for visa on arrival:

All European countries
USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
Most Asian countries
Arab countries
Most South American and African countries

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Check with Egyptian embassy if your country is not listed.

Document Requirements

To obtain a visa on arrival, you'll need:

Valid Passport: Minimum 6 months validity from date of entry
Passport Photo: One 4x6 cm color passport photo
Completed Arrival Card: Provided on your flight or at airport counters
Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Egypt
Hotel Booking: Confirmation of accommodation
Currency: USD $25-30 (some counters accept EUR or other currencies)

Visa on Arrival Costs (2026)

Tourist Visa (Single Entry): $25 USD

Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry): $60 USD

Processing Fee: No additional fees

Payment Methods: Cash only (USD, EUR, or GBP accepted; sometimes Egyptian pounds)

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Before Immigration

After disembarking and collecting baggage, locate the visa counters in the arrivals hall. These are clearly marked with "Visa" signs and usually positioned before the immigration counters.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Have passport ready
Filled arrival card visible
Passenger photo accessible
USD cash prepared

Step 3: Queue at Visa Counter

Join the appropriate queue. Peak times can have longer waits (30-60 minutes during peak arrival times). Morning and late evening are typically less busy.

Step 4: Submit Application

Hand over documents to officer
State your visa type (single or multiple entry)
Pay required fee
Receive receipt/confirmation

Step 5: Visa Stamping

Officer will stamp your visa directly into your passport. Typically completed within 5-10 minutes per person.

Step 6: Proceed to Immigration

With stamped visa, proceed to immigration control where your entry is recorded.

Processing Times

Average Wait: 15-30 minutes (visa queue)

Peak Hours: Can extend to 1 hour during major flight arrivals

Less Busy Times: Early morning (5-8 AM), late night (11 PM-6 AM)

Pro Tip: Complete arrival card on flight to speed up the process

Single vs. Multiple Entry Visas

Single Entry Visa ($25)

Allows one entry into Egypt
Valid for 30 days from entry
Cannot leave and re-enter without new visa
Best for direct visits

Multiple Entry Visa ($60)

Allows multiple entries/exits
Valid for 6 months from issuance
Can leave Egypt and return without new visa
Best for Nile cruises to different cities
Best if visiting Sudan, Israel, or Jordan

Important Rules and Restrictions

Tourist visa is for tourism purposes only (not work)
Cannot be extended easily (must apply for new visa)
30-day limit for single entry (can request extension)
Cannot be used for employment
Overstaying carries fines and potential legal issues

What to Do If Visa is Refused

Visa refusal at Cairo Airport is extremely rare. However, if it occurs:

Don't panic - staff will explain the reason
Provide additional documentation if available
Contact your country's embassy in Cairo
Book return flight immediately
Request written explanation for records

E-Visa Alternative (No Visa on Arrival Needed)

Egypt also offers an e-visa system that you can obtain before traveling:

Cost: $25-60 (same as on-arrival)
Processing Time: 7 days
Website: Egypt e-visa official portal
Advantage: One less queue at airport
Best For: Those with time to apply in advance

Pro Tips for Smooth Visa Process

Arrive with filled arrival card completed
Have passport photo separate from documents
Bring USD in small denominations
Plan for 30-40 minute visa process time
Keep visa receipt safe for exit procedures
Photo should be recent and color
Know hotel address or have booking confirmation

Common Questions

Q: Can I extend my tourist visa? Yes, at immigration office in Cairo. Process takes 1-2 weeks, costs $15-20.

Q: What if my passport expires within 6 months? Entry will be refused. Renew before traveling.

Q: Can I obtain visa for other family members? Yes, each person must obtain their own visa.

Q: What if I lose my visa receipt? Report to immigration office. Have passport and hotel booking information.