| |

Navigating Egypt: Your 2026 Guide to Visas & Residency

ByAndy M I

Whether you’re visiting for a quick Red Sea holiday or planning a long-term move to Hurghada, understanding your visa options is the first step. Egypt has introduced several updates this year to streamline entry, including the new 5-year multiple-entry option.

Here is everything you need to know about costs, types, and the “Fine Print.”

1. The Quick Entry: Tourist Visa on Arrival (VOA)

For most UK travelers, this is the go-to. You simply buy a sticker at the bank kiosk before reaching the immigration desks at airports like Cairo, Hurghada, or Luxor.

  • Cost: $30 USD (As of March 2026, increased from $25).
  • GBP Equivalent: Approx. £24
  • Validity: 30 days (Single entry).
  • Pro-Tip: You must pay in cash. While they accept GBP, the exchange rate at the airport is often poor; bring crisp USD bills for the best value.

2. The Digital Choice: The e-Visa

If you prefer to skip the bank queues at the airport, you can apply online at least 7 days before you fly.

  • Single Entry Cost: $25 USD (~£20)
  • Multiple Entry Cost: $60 USD (~£48)
  • Validity: Valid for 90 days, allowing a 30-day stay.
  • Why choose this? It’s actually $5 cheaper than the Visa on Arrival this year, and the multiple-entry version is perfect if you plan to hop over to Jordan or the UK and return.

3. The “Expat Game-Changer”: The 5-Year Multiple Entry Visa

Introduced for frequent travelers and potential expats, this visa allows you to come and go as you please for half a decade.

  • Cost: $700 USD
  • GBP Equivalent: Approx. £560
  • The Rules: You can stay for up to 90 days per visit. It is designed for those who don’t yet have residency but spend significant time in the country.

4. Long-Term Stays: Residency Permits

If you are moving to Egypt for your business or lifestyle, a tourist visa won’t cut it forever. Most expats enter on a tourist visa and then “convert” it at the local Passport & Immigration Office (Gawazat).

  • Tourist Visa Extension: You can often extend your 30-day visa for an additional 3–6 months for a small fee (approx. £30–£50 in EGP equivalent).
  • Property Residency: If you own property in Egypt worth at least $50,000, you are eligible for a 1-year renewable residency. If the property is worth $200,000+, you can get a 5-year permit.
  • Investment/Work: If you are setting up a consultancy or marketing company, your residency will be tied to your work permit or business license.

Visa Quick-Reference Table (2026)

Visa TypeDurationCost (USD)Cost (GBP approx.)Best For…
Visa on Arrival30 Days$30£24Last-minute holidaymakers.
e-Visa (Single)30 Days$25£20Budget travelers & planners.
e-Visa (Multiple)30 Days/visit$60£48Regional explorers.
5-Year Visa90 Days/visit$700£560Frequent flyers & digital nomads.
Residency1–5 YearsVariesVariesExpats and property owners.

Important “Always Egypt” Advice:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of arrival.
  • Sinai Only Stamp: If you are flying into Sharm El Sheikh and staying only in the Sinai coast for less than 15 days, you can get a “Sinai Only” stamp for free. However, if you plan to visit Cairo or go diving in certain areas, you must buy the standard $30 visa.

Similar Posts