Egypt Increases Visa-on-Arrival Fee
Amid a growing influx of tourists, Egypt has increased its visa-on-arrival fee, effective March 1, 2026. The country welcomed a record 19 million tourists in 2025 and aims to attract 30 million annually by 2030, according to Travel + Leisure Asia.
What is the New Visa-on-Arrival Fee?
The visa-on-arrival fee has increased from USD 25 to USD 30 (approximately INR 2,081 to INR 2,497 as of March 11, 2026). This applies to the 30-day single-entry visa issued at international airports and certain land and sea borders across the country. Travel + Leisure Asia reports this is the first increase in several years.
Visa Sticker Update
Egypt will continue to issue the original USD 25 visa sticker, but an additional sticker will be affixed to reflect the USD 5 increase. Travel + Leisure Asia clarifies this detail.
Other Visa Types
The fee increase applies only to the visa-on-arrival. There have been no reported changes to the cost of electronic visas obtained through the official website, or visas issued by Egyptian embassies and consulates. The multiple-entry visa remains at USD 60. Travel + Leisure Asia confirms this information.
Visa Exemptions
Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are exempt from visa requirements, according to the Wikipedia entry on Egypt’s visa policy. Hong Kong and Jordan also have visa-free access for stays of up to 3 months and 14 days respectively, with certain conditions. Ibid.
Applying for a Visa
The Egyptian consulate in Washington D.C. Requires pre-approval for visa applications and only serves applicants from Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Applicants from other states should contact the consulate with jurisdiction over their state. The Embassy of Egypt, Washington D.C. details these requirements.
eVisa Option
American citizens can obtain a Single Entry eVisa for tourism, allowing a stay of up to 30 days. Most applications are approved within 5 days. Travelers visiting Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts do not require a visa for stays of no more than 15 days. Sherpa° provides information on the eVisa process.