Egypt has announced a small but important update for international travelers who rely on visa-on-arrival entry.
Beginning March 1, 2026, the government has increased the cost of the visa-on-arrival for tourists by $5. The new fee applies at all international airports and seaports across the country.
New Visa-on-Arrival Fee
Travelers who arrive in Egypt without obtaining a visa beforehand can still receive a visa at the port of entry. However, the price has now increased.
- Previous visa-on-arrival fee: $25
- New visa-on-arrival fee: $30
The visa issued at the airport or seaport remains a single-entry tourist visa valid for 30 days.
Where the New Fee Applies
The updated fee applies to all major international entry points into Egypt.
This includes major airports such as:
- Cairo International Airport
- Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
- Hurghada International Airport
The new pricing also applies to seaports that receive international tourist arrivals.
Who Must Pay the New Price
The increase affects travelers who:
- Are eligible for Egypt’s visa-on-arrival program
- Choose to obtain the visa at the airport or seaport
Travelers who apply for an Egypt e-Visa before departure will not be affected by this fee change.
Why the Change Matters
Although the increase is only $5, it can still impact travel costs for groups and families.
For example:
- A family of four will now pay $120 instead of $100 for visas upon arrival
- Tour operators may need to adjust package pricing
- Travel agents may update booking estimates
These adjustments highlight the importance of checking visa rules and travel costs before departing for international trips.
Visa-on-Arrival Process in Egypt
The procedure for obtaining a visa on arrival remains unchanged.
Travelers simply need to:
- Arrive at the airport or seaport
- Purchase the visa sticker at the bank counter
- Present the visa to immigration officers
The only difference now is the updated price.
Tips for Travelers Visiting Egypt
If you are planning to travel to Egypt soon, consider the following tips:
- Check whether your nationality qualifies for visa-on-arrival
- Compare visa-on-arrival fees with the official eVisa option
- Carry enough cash for visa payment
- Allow extra time for airport processing during busy travel seasons
Applying for an eVisa in advance may also help travelers avoid airport queues.
Conclusion
Egypt remains open to international tourism, but travelers should now budget slightly more for visa-on-arrival entry.
The updated fee of $30 took effect on March 1, 2026, while the overall visa process remains unchanged.
As global travel rules frequently evolve, checking entry requirements and visa costs before departure can help travelers avoid surprises at the airport.