Egypt Visa For US Citizens: e-Visa vs Visa On Arrival (2026)
The pyramids of Giza, a Nile cruise, diving in the Red Sea: Egypt is high on many Americans’ travel lists, and getting in is relatively simple. But US citizens do need a visa, and there are now two prices depending on how you get it.
This guide explains your options, what each costs, how to apply online, and what to have ready when you land.
Do US Citizens Need A Visa For Egypt?
Yes. US passport holders need a tourist visa to enter Egypt. You have three ways to get one:
- e-Visa, applied for online before you travel
- Visa on arrival, bought at major Egyptian airports
- Consular visa, through an Egyptian embassy or consulate in the US
For most tourists, the e-Visa is the best choice.
Egypt Visa Costs For Americans
| Visa | Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| e-Visa, single entry | US$25 | 30-day stay |
| e-Visa, multiple entry | US$60 | Valid 180 days, stays of up to 30 days each |
| Visa on arrival | US$30 (from March 1, 2026) | 30-day stay, single entry |
The visa on arrival fee rose from US$25 to US$30 on March 1, 2026, according to travel industry reports. The official online e-Visa fee was not part of that increase. Fees can change, so confirm on the official portal before paying.
Option 1: The Egypt e-Visa
Where to apply
Apply on Egypt’s official portal, visa2egypt.gov.eg, run by the Ministry of Interior. Many lookalike sites charge much higher prices for the same visa.
When to apply
Apply at least seven days before departure to allow time for processing.
What you need
- A US passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with a blank page
- A scan of your passport photo page
- Your travel dates and arrival airport
- Your accommodation details in Egypt
- A card for payment
After approval
Your e-Visa arrives by email as a PDF. Print it and carry it with your passport. Show it at immigration on arrival.
Option 2: Visa On Arrival
US citizens can buy a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egypt’s main international airports, including Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh and Luxor. The process:
- Before the immigration line, find the bank counters selling visa stickers.
- Pay the fee, typically in cash. Bring clean US dollar bills, ideally the exact amount.
- Place the sticker in your passport, or hand it to the officer, and join the immigration queue.
Visa on arrival is convenient but can mean long queues at busy times, and it now costs more than the e-Visa. If you are entering by land or sea, do not assume visa on arrival is available. Arrange your e-Visa in advance.
Option 3: Consular Visa
Through Egypt’s embassy in Washington or its consulates. This is mainly useful for longer stays, non-tourist purposes, or if you are not eligible for the e-Visa.
Arriving In Egypt: What To Have Ready
- Your passport with six months’ validity
- Your printed e-Visa, or cash for a visa on arrival
- Your hotel booking or address
- Your return or onward flight details
Officers may ask how long you are staying and when you are leaving. A single-entry tourist visa allows 30 days, so having your exit booking on your phone makes these conversations quick. Planning to continue to Jordan, Turkey or elsewhere afterwards? Our guide to proof of onward travel explains what airlines and border officers look for.
Extending Your Stay
Tourist visas can generally be extended inside Egypt at a passport and immigration office. Apply before your current permission expires, and expect paperwork and a fee.
Tips For A Smooth Entry
- Get the e-Visa if you want the lowest fee and the shortest wait.
- Use the official portal only. Third-party sites often charge double or more.
- Carry small, clean US bills for visa on arrival and tips.
- Check your passport validity before you book. Six months beyond arrival is the standard requirement.
- Check the US State Department’s Egypt page for current travel advice before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an Egypt visa for US citizens?
US$25 for a single-entry e-Visa, US$60 for a multiple-entry e-Visa, or US$30 for a visa on arrival since March 2026.
Is the Egypt e-Visa or visa on arrival better?
The e-Visa is cheaper and avoids airport queues. Visa on arrival is a reasonable fallback at major airports.
How long can I stay in Egypt on a tourist visa?
Up to 30 days per entry, with extensions possible inside Egypt.
Can I pay the visa on arrival by card?
Do not count on it. Bring US dollars in cash.
Do children need their own Egypt visa?
Yes. Every traveler needs a visa, including children.
Before You Fly
Apply for your e-Visa a week or more ahead on visa2egypt.gov.eg, print the approval, carry your exit plans, and you will be through immigration and on your way to the pyramids in no time.