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The 2026 “Digital Gap”: Why You Still Need Cash

ByAndy M I

It feels like a contradiction: you’ve just filled out your new Digital Arrival Card on your phone, and the airport has high-speed 5G, but the most important sticker in your passport still requires a paper bill. Here is the reality of entering Egypt in 2026:

1. The “Bank vs. Immigration” Rule In Egypt, the police officers at passport control do not sell visas. The visas are sold by bank tellers at small kiosks in the arrival hall. Because these are technically bank transactions for a government fee, their systems are strictly set up for “hard currency” (foreign cash). While a few counters in Cairo’s Terminal 2 have begun trialing card readers, they are notoriously unreliable. Do not bet your entry on a card reader working.

2. The Currency Hierarchy The official price is $25 USD.

  • US Dollars: Preferred. You get the best “rate” because the price is pegged to the dollar.
  • GBP / EUR: Accepted, but the bank will calculate the conversion on the spot. You will often receive your change in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) at a slightly lower rate than the street value.
  • Pro Tip: Bring the exact $25 in a single twenty and a five. It’s the fastest way through.

3. The 96-Hour “Transit” Bonus (New for 2026) If you are only stopping in Egypt for a few days, check if you even need the $25 sticker! Egypt has extended its Free 96-Hour Transit Visa into April 2026. If your layover is between 8 and 96 hours, you can visit the pyramids for free, provided you show your onward flight ticket.

4. The “Sinai Only” Stamp Remember, if you are flying directly into Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, or Taba and staying for less than 15 days, you don’t need to pay at all. You can head straight to the passport desk for a free “Sinai Only” stamp. However, if you plan to leave the coast (like a day trip to Cairo), you must buy the $25 sticker first.

How to “Fail-Proof” Your Arrival

  • The “No-Go” List: Do not try to pay with a travel card like Revolut or Monzo at the bank kiosk.
  • The Condition of Cash: Egyptian banks are very picky. If your $20 bill has a tiny tear, a pen mark, or is from an older series, they may reject it. Use crisp, new bills from the last 5 years.
  • Skip the Line: If you hate carrying cash, apply for the Official E-Visa at least 7 days before you fly. You pay with your card online, print the paper, and skip the bank kiosks entirely.

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