Visa Information for Foreigners Living in Egypt (2025 Update)
Visa Information for Foreigners Living in Egypt (2025 Update)
If you’re considering moving to Egypt, spending the winter in Hurghada, or buying property by the Red Sea, understanding Egypt’s visa system is essential. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visas in Egypt — from the tourist visa on arrival to the 6-month permit and renewal process. Updated for 2025, this article covers the latest requirements, fees, and practical tips for foreigners and expats
Tourist Visa on Arrival
Most nationalities can enter Egypt with a Tourist Visa issued directly at the airport.
No need to apply in advance — simply purchase the visa at the passport control desk upon arrival
Fee: 25 USD
Validity: 30 days
That’s the simplest way to visit Egypt for tourism, exploration, or property viewing trips
Special Case: Russian & Ukrainian Citizens
Good news for citizens of Russia and Ukraine:
You can extend your tourist visa for an additional 2 months free of charge.
No formal application is required — you only need to get a stamp from the General Passport Office
No fees apply
No additional documents are needed
This makes it much easier to stay longer for those planning to explore real estate or spend the winter season in Egypt
Long-term Visa (6 Months)
If you plan to stay in Egypt for more than one month, you’ll need to apply for a 6-month residency visa.
This visa is typically issued based on either:
a stamped rental contract, or
a property ownership contract proving your reason for long-term stay.
Required Documents
Original passport + 3 copies (main page and entry visa page)
Rental or sales contract – original + copy
One passport-size photo
Completed application form (1 page)
Bank receipt confirming currency exchange
Visa fee: approx. 7,200 EGP
Important: Currency Exchange Receipt
To pay your visa fees, you must show proof of currency exchange — a receipt from a bank confirming that you exchanged USD or EUR into EGP
Even if you already have Egyptian pounds, you still need to exchange a small amount and present the receipt
Recommended Banks (Governmental)
National Bank of Egypt
Banque Misr
Banque du Caire
Egyptian Arab Land Bank
Agricultural Bank of Egypt
Housing and Development Bank
Tip: It’s best to exchange your currency at a state-owned bank to avoid any rejection or delay during the visa process
Processing Time
Western European citizens: usually ready within 10 working days
Eastern European citizens:
You’ll receive a waiting stamp in your passport
Return after 2 months to check status
If approved, visa is issued within 10 more days
Visa Renewal
You can renew your visa once for another 6 months
The process and documents are the same — just make sure to apply before your current visa expires
After One Year: What’s Next?
After completing two 6-month periods (a total of one year), you must leave Egypt for a short time — just long enough to change the entry date
When you re-enter, you start again from the beginning:
Tourist visa on arrival (30 days)
Apply again for a 6-month visa
Final Thoughts
Egypt offers a straightforward visa system for those who wish to live by the sea, work remotely, or invest in property
Whether you’re planning a short stay or a long-term relocation, understanding the visa process will make your move smooth and stress-free