Visa on Arrival at Cairo Airport: Step-by-Step Guide, Requirements & Fees 2026

Visa on Arrival at Cairo International Airport

Cairo International Airport offers visa on arrival for eligible travelers, providing convenient entry to Egypt without prior consulate visits. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step.

Who is Eligible?

Citizens of most countries can obtain visa on arrival. However, eligibility varies. Your nationality determines your visa category and requirements. Refer to the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for your country's specific regulations.

Visa Types Available

Single Entry Tourist Visa (30 days): EGP 700-750 (~$24 USD)

Multiple Entry Visa (30 days): EGP 1,200-1,300 (~$40 USD)

Business Visa (30 days): EGP 1,200 (~$40 USD)

Extended Visa (30-60 days): EGP 1,500-2,000

Step-by-Step Visa on Arrival Process

Step 1: Preparation

• Have your passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date
• Have passport photos (4x6 cm) - 1 required, bring 2 extra
• Have a valid credit card or sufficient Egyptian pounds
• Have travel documents (accommodation booking, return flight)
• Complete travel information form

Step 2: Airport Arrival

• Follow "VISA ON ARRIVAL" signage in airport
• Proceed to the visa service counter (located before immigration)
• Join the appropriate queue (by nationality or visa type)

Step 3: Documentation

• Present your passport
• Provide passport photograph
• Complete and sign visa application form (provided at counter)
• Sign documents as instructed

Step 4: Payment

• Pay visa fee at the counter or payment booth
• Payment methods accepted:
• Egyptian pounds (cash)
• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
• US dollars (cash, at specified exchange rate)
• Keep receipt

Step 5: Visa Stamping

• Receive official visa stamp in your passport
• Verify your details on the visa page
• Note the entry and exit dates

Step 6: Immigration Processing

• Proceed to immigration counter with stamped passport
• Have your passport and boarding pass ready
• Answer brief questions if asked
• Receive entry stamp

Visa Application Form Details

The application form requires:

• Full name and date of birth
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
• Accommodation address in Egypt
• Duration of stay
• Profession/occupation

Documentation Checklist

• Passport (valid 6+ months)
• Passport photograph (4x6 cm, white background preferred)
• Payment method (cash or credit card)
• Hotel/accommodation booking confirmation
• Return flight ticket or booking
• Travel insurance documentation (optional but recommended)
• Employer letter (if applicable)

Important Requirements

• Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months from entry date
• Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages in passport
• Photograph Quality: Recent, color, 4x6 cm, white background
• Accommodation Booking: Confirm your stay location
• Return Flight: Have booking details available

Visa Fees 2026

Single Entry Tourist (30 days): EGP 700-750 (~$24 USD)

Multiple Entry (30 days): EGP 1,200-1,300 (~$40 USD)

Business Visa (30 days): EGP 1,200 (~$40 USD)

Payment accepted in Egyptian Pounds or USD

Exchange Rate Note

Exchange rates fluctuate. The visa counter offers official rates, though it may not be the best rate. If paying in USD, confirm the exchange rate before payment.

Processing Time

Average Processing Time: 15-30 minutes

Peak Times (busier): 30-60 minutes

Off-Peak (less busy): 10-15 minutes

Typical times to avoid: 10 AM-2 PM, 8 PM-11 PM

Visa Counter Locations

Terminal 1: Visa service located after immigration

Terminal 2: Main visa counter (pre-immigration) and backup counter

Terminal 3: Visa counter near baggage claim area

Pro Tips for Smooth Processing

• Carry extra passport photos (2-3 copies)
• Have hotel address written down
• Keep documents organized
• Arrive early if traveling during peak season
• Have passport ready (not in carry-on bag)
• Double-check form before submitting
• Keep visa receipt until departure

Visa Extensions in Cairo

If you need to extend your stay beyond 30 days:

Authority: Ministry of Interior, Immigration Department

Cost: EGP 1,200+ for extensions

Processing: Typically 1-3 days

Requirement: Valid reason for extension

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get a visa if my passport has less than 6 months validity?

A: No, minimum 6-month validity is strictly required. Renew your passport first.

Q: Can I extend my visa once I'm in Egypt?

A: Yes, at the Immigration Department in Cairo, but extension not guaranteed.

Q: What if my application is rejected?

A: Rejections are rare. If it happens, you can appeal or consult Egyptian embassy. Most rejections relate to security concerns.

Q: Can my relative get a visa on behalf of me?

A: No, you must apply in person at the airport.

Special Notes

• Certain nationalities may need pre-approval; check before traveling
• If refused entry, airline may be held responsible; check visa requirements
• Keep your visa receipt and passport safe throughout your stay
• Upon departure, ensure your visa isn't expired

Emergency Contacts

Cairo Airport Immigration: +20 2 2265 5006

Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +20 2 2796 3400