Congratulations on choosing Hurghada for your next vacation! You’re about to experience sun, sea, and history in one of Egypt’s most beautiful destinations. But before you pack your bags, let’s get the paperwork out of the way.
Don't worry, getting an Egyptian visa is straightforward for most travelers. In this guide by Mega Adventures, we break down everything you need to know about obtaining your visa for a hassle-free entry into Egypt.
1. Who Needs a Visa to Enter Egypt?
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Egypt.
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Visa-Exempt Countries: Citizens of a few countries (mostly some Arab nations) can enter Egypt without a visa for short stays (typically up to 3 months).
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Visa-Required Countries: Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, Russia, and many others must obtain a visa.
Tip: Always check with the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
2. Method 1: Visa on Arrival (The Easiest Way)
This is the most common and convenient method for many tourists arriving at Hurghada International Airport.
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Where to Get It: Upon arrival in the terminal building, before you reach passport control. Look for bank kiosks (often located just before the immigration counters).
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Cost: $25 USD (as of 2025).
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Important Note: It is highly recommended to pay in cash with exact change in US Dollars. While Euros or British Pounds are sometimes accepted, the exchange rate might not be favorable, and USD is the preferred currency.
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Validity: The visa is valid for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days.
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Requirements:
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A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date.
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Sometimes, you may be asked to show proof of a return or onward ticket.
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Who Is Eligible: Citizens of many countries, including all EU member states, USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Russia, Japan, and others, are eligible for Visa on Arrival.
3. Method 2: E-Visa (Apply Online in Advance)
If you prefer to have everything sorted before you travel and want to skip the bank queue at the airport, you can apply for an electronic visa (E-Visa).
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Official Website: Apply only through the official government portal: visa2egypt.gov.eg
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Warning: Be cautious of unofficial third-party websites that charge extra service fees.
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When to Apply: It is recommended to apply at least 7 days before your departure date to allow time for processing.
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Cost:
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Single Entry Visa (30 days): $25 USD.
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Multiple Entry Visa (90 days total stay over 6 months): $60 USD.
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Process: Fill out the online application form, upload a digital copy of your passport, pay the fee online, and receive the E-Visa via email.
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Tip: Print a copy of your approved E-Visa and keep it with your passport to present to immigration officers upon arrival.
4. Important: The “Sinai Only” Visa vs. Full Egyptian Visa
This is a crucial point that confuses many travelers.
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What is the “Sinai Only” Visa? It is a free entry stamp granted upon arrival at Sharm El Sheikh airport (located in South Sinai). It is valid for up to 15 days.
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The Limitation: This visa strictly limits your travel to the South Sinai region (Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba, and St. Catherine). You cannot use this visa to travel to Hurghada, Cairo, Luxor, or any other part of mainland Egypt.
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The Verdict for Hurghada Travelers: If you are landing in Hurghada, or if you land in Sharm El Sheikh but plan to visit Cairo (for the Pyramids) or Luxor (for a day trip with us), you must purchase the full Egyptian Visa ($25).
Conclusion & Next Steps
Getting your visa sorted is the first step towards an amazing Egyptian adventure. Whether you choose the convenience of Visa on Arrival or the peace of mind of an E-Visa, the process is simple.
Now that the paperwork is clear, it’s time to plan the fun part! At Mega Adventures, we specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences in Hurghada. Use your visa to explore more of Egypt with our top-rated tours:
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[Link to Cairo Day Trip] Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.
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[Link to Luxor Day Trip] Explore the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.
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[Link to Mega Safari Mix] Experience the thrill of the desert and the beauty of the Red Sea.
Ready to start your adventure? Browse all our tours and book today!
