By Aime L. | March 17, 2026
KUALA LUMPUR — If you’re planning a trip to Egypt this spring or summer — perhaps to marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile, or explore the temples of Luxor — take note: Egypt has officially raised its Visa‑on‑Arrival (VoA) fee to US $30, effective March 1, 2026. This increase represents the first adjustment in over a decade and will affect most travelers who choose to secure their visa upon landing at Egyptian airports.
📈 What’s Changed
- Old fee: US $25
- New fee: US $30
- Effective date: March 1, 2026
- Applies to single‑entry visa‑on‑arrival issued at major airports and border entries.
This modest rise is part of Egypt’s broader travel policy adjustments amid a rebound in international tourism. The change has already been implemented at multiple entry points including Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm el‑Sheikh, and Luxor airports.
Some arrivals are reporting that the airport still uses the familiar green visa sticker, but adds a small “+ $5 Surcharge Entry Visa Fee” label to reflect the updated total cost — an interim measure while new visa stamps are phased in.
💳 How Payment Works
Unlike e‑Visa options, the Visa‑on‑Arrival fee must be paid in cash (USD is typically preferred) at airport bank counters before you complete immigration processing. Cards are generally not accepted at these service counters, so travelers are advised to carry crisp, unmarked US dollars to avoid delays or rejected payments.
🛂 Visa Options & Cost Comparison
Egypt offers different entry routes for tourists:
| Visa Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa‑on‑Arrival | US $30 | Payable at the airport; flexible but cash required |
| Official e‑Visa | ~US $25* | Apply online before travel; cheaper and smoother |
| Multiple‑Entry Visa | ~US $60* | Obtain in advance; useful for multi‑country itineraries |
*Costs are approximate and may vary based on nationality and processing method.
Travel Tip: Using the official Egypt e‑Visa portal before departure can help avoid airport lines and may save you US $5 or more compared with the on‑arrival fee — handy for a koshary lunch or a Nile felucca ride upon arrival. (While the official fee often remains lower via e‑Visa, always check the current rate before booking.)
✈️ Important Arrival Notes
- Duration: Tourist visas (VoA or e‑Visa) generally allow stays of up to 30 days.
- Entry Points: Major airports (Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm el‑Sheikh, Luxor) and some border crossings offer VoA.
- Cash Only: Always bring the correct currency; banks on‑site may refuse old or damaged notes.
📍 Who This Affects
All international travelers seeking a single‑entry VoA will see the updated fee at point of entry. Citizens of some countries may still have special arrangements or visa exemptions under separate agreements, but the standard VoA increase applies broadly to arrivals from the US, Canada, UK, EU countries, and many others.
🧠 Travel Planning Tips
- Apply for an e‑Visa before travel if you want to avoid paying at the airport or dealing with cash payments — this is often quicker and still cost‑effective.
- Check the official government visa site before your trip to ensure you’re paying the correct fee and not higher third‑party service charges.
- Allow extra time at the airport if you plan to get your visa on arrival, as lines for bank payments can add to processing time.
Despite the small fee increase, Egypt’s iconic sites — from the Sphinx to Abu Simbel — remain among the world’s most compelling historical attractions. Being prepared with the right visa option will help ensure your journey starts smoothly, whether you’re arriving in Cairo’s bustling capital or flying into the Red Sea resorts.
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