Egypt Visa on Arrival Application Form: A Complete Guide

For travelers planning to visit Egypt, one of the most straightforward visa options is the Egypt Visa on Arrival (VoA). This option is available to nationals of many countries and allows you to obtain a visa directly at the airport upon arrival in Egypt. However, even though the process is generally easy, you must fill out the Egypt Visa on Arrival Application Form accurately to avoid any delays or issues.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of filling out the Egypt Visa on Arrival application form, including key details about eligibility, required documents, and steps to ensure your application is accepted smoothly.

What is the Egypt Visa on Arrival?

The Egypt Visa on Arrival allows eligible travelers to enter Egypt without needing to apply for a visa in advance at the Egyptian embassy. You can obtain the visa at the airport in Egypt upon your arrival. This visa is typically available for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers from specific countries, with some restrictions based on nationality and purpose of travel.

It’s important to note that the Egypt Visa on Arrival is only available at certain international airports in Egypt, including Cairo International Airport, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Luxor, and Taba. Be sure to check if the airport you are arriving at offers this option.

Who is Eligible for the Egypt Visa on Arrival?

The Egypt Visa on Arrival is available to citizens of many countries, but there are certain restrictions based on nationality. Citizens of countries like the United States, Canada, European Union countries, and many others can apply for an Egypt Visa on Arrival.

However, travelers from some countries may not be eligible for a Visa on Arrival and may need to apply for an Egyptian visa through the embassy or consulate before traveling. Always check the list of eligible countries for the Visa on Arrival on the official Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or consult with your local Egyptian embassy.

Steps for the Egypt Visa on Arrival Application

If you are eligible for the Egypt Visa on Arrival, you will need to follow these steps to complete the application process at the airport.

1. Fill Out the Egypt Visa on Arrival Application Form

Upon arrival at the airport in Egypt, you will be directed to the visa counter where you will need to fill out the Egypt Visa on Arrival Application Form. This form will ask for basic personal information and travel details.

Key Information Required on the Form:

• Personal Information: Full name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, gender, etc.
• Passport Information: Passport number, date of issue, and expiry date. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Egypt.
• Travel Details: Purpose of your visit (tourism, business, etc.), flight details, and address where you will be staying in Egypt (hotel or personal accommodation).
• Duration of Stay: Specify how long you intend to stay in Egypt. Typically, the Visa on Arrival allows stays of up to 30 days, but you can inquire about extending your visa at the visa desk.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Before heading to the Egypt visa counter, ensure you have the necessary documents. In addition to the Egypt Visa on Arrival application form, you will need:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date in Egypt.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs, according to the specifications provided by the airport authorities.
• Visa Fee: Be prepared to pay the visa fee for the Visa on Arrival. The fee is generally around $25 USD for a single-entry visa but may vary depending on the airport or your nationality. It’s best to have the correct amount in cash (USD is commonly accepted).
• Travel Details: Keep a copy of your return flight ticket and hotel booking or an invitation letter from a friend or family member in Egypt, especially if required.

3. Proceed to the Visa Counter

Once you arrive at the airport in Egypt, follow the signs to the Visa on Arrival counter, where you will submit your completed application form along with the required documents. The staff at the counter will verify your documents, and you will need to pay the visa fee at the counter.

4. Wait for Processing

After submitting the application form and documents, your visa will be processed. This typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the airport’s traffic. During this time, you may be asked a few questions regarding your trip, such as the purpose of your visit and how long you plan to stay in Egypt.

5. Receive Your Visa

If all your documents are in order, and you meet the requirements, you will receive your Egypt Visa on Arrival stamped in your passport. You will then proceed to immigration and customs for further processing.

Important Tips for a Smooth Egypt Visa on Arrival Process

To ensure a hassle-free experience while applying for the Egypt Visa on Arrival, keep these tips in mind:

1. Check Your Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Egypt. Without this, you may not be granted entry.

2. Correct Visa Fee Payment

Have the correct visa fee in cash, as most airports do not accept credit or debit cards for visa fees. USD is widely accepted at most airports in Egypt, but other currencies may not be.

3. Prepare the Required Documents in Advance

Make sure you have all the necessary documents prepared, such as passport-sized photos, flight details, hotel reservations, or an invitation letter. This will save you time at the visa counter.

4. Arrival Airport Matters

Only specific airports offer the Visa on Arrival service. Be sure to check if the airport you are arriving at provides this service. If you’re traveling to a smaller airport or land border, you may need to apply for a visa through the embassy in advance.

5. Stay Within the Visa Validity

The Egypt Visa on Arrival typically allows a 30-day stay in Egypt. If you plan to stay longer, inquire about visa extension options at the airport or contact the Egyptian immigration office before your visa expires.

Alternative: Egypt E-Visa

While the Egypt Visa on Arrival is a convenient option for many travelers, if you prefer to skip the lines at the airport and avoid potential delays, you can apply for the Egypt e-Visa online. The e-Visa application process is straightforward, and you can apply from the comfort of your home or office, avoiding the need to fill out a form at the airport.

The e-Visa is available for eligible citizens from many countries and allows you to stay in Egypt for up to 30 days. It is often processed within a few days, and once approved, you will receive your visa electronically, which you can present upon arrival.

Conclusion

The Egypt Visa on Arrival Application Form is an essential part of the process for obtaining your visa when arriving in Egypt. By following the outlined steps and ensuring all your documents are in order, you can easily obtain a visa upon arrival and begin your journey to explore the rich history, culture, and attractions of Egypt.

If you prefer not to wait in line or fill out the form at the airport, consider applying for an Egypt e-Visa online for a smoother experience. No matter which option you choose, ensuring you have the correct documents and are aware of the eligibility requirements will make your trip to Egypt even more enjoyable.