Do Australians Need a Visa to Travel to Egypt?

Yes, Australians need a tourist visa to enter Egypt, and it is not something to leave until the airport in Cairo. The good news is that the process is straightforward once you know your two options.

Here is how each one works and what to have ready before you fly.

Yes, and there are two ways to get one

Australian passport holders can buy a tourist visa on arrival at the main Egyptian airports, including Cairo. The other option is to apply online for an e-visa before you leave. Either way, a standard tourist visa allows a stay of up to 30 days.

Your travel dates and arrival airport are the details a visa application usually asks for, so it makes sense to settle them while arranging your flights to Egypt from Australia. Once the tickets are confirmed, you can choose the visa route that suits you.

Visa on arrival

The visa on arrival is the simple option if you would rather not apply in advance. A single-entry tourist visa typically costs around US$25 and is paid in cash, usually in US dollars.

You buy the visa at the airport before heading to passport control. Bring the exact cash amount, because change is not always available.

Applying for an e-visa

The e-visa lets you sort everything online before take-off. You can apply through Egypt's official e-visa portal, ideally at least seven days before you travel.

Fees are paid online at the time of application and differ for single-entry and multiple-entry visas. Print the approval and carry it with your passport, because border officers check it on arrival.

Passport and entry checks

Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from the day you arrive in Egypt, and it should have a blank page for the visa. Check the expiry date before you book, because airlines can refuse boarding if it falls short.

Immigration officers may also ask for your return or onward ticket, your accommodation details and proof that you can cover your stay. Entry rules can change, so confirm the latest requirements on the Smartraveller page for Egypt before you fly.

Conclusion

Australians do need a visa for Egypt, but getting one is easy, whether you buy it on arrival or apply online first. Check your passport validity early, carry the right paperwork and the entry process should take care of itself.