What to Expect When Arriving in Egypt with Your eVisa
Congratulations on obtaining your Egypt eVisa! Now that you have your electronic visa approved, it's important to understand what happens when you arrive at an Egyptian airport. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire immigration process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free entry into Egypt.
The Egypt eVisa system has revolutionized the way tourists enter the country, making the arrival process faster and more efficient. However, knowing what to expect and having the right documents ready will help you navigate immigration with confidence and minimal delays.
Essential Documents to Prepare Before Your Flight
Required Documents Checklist
Before boarding your flight to Egypt, ensure you have the following documents ready and easily accessible:
- Valid passport - The same passport used for your eVisa application
- Printed eVisa confirmation - A physical copy of your approved eVisa
- Digital backup - Save a copy on your smartphone or tablet
- Return flight ticket - Proof of onward or return travel
- Accommodation details - Hotel reservation or address in Egypt
- Sufficient funds - Proof of financial means for your stay
Important Reminders
Keep these critical points in mind before your departure:
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your entry date
- Verify that your eVisa details match your passport exactly
- Check your eVisa validity period - you must enter Egypt within 90 days of issue
- Ensure your eVisa hasn't expired before travel
- Keep all documents in your carry-on luggage, not checked baggage
- Have both printed and digital copies for backup
Don't Have Your Egypt eVisa Yet?
Apply now and receive your approved eVisa within 3-7 business days
Start Your ApplicationStep-by-Step Immigration Process at Egyptian Airports
Step 1
Disembark and Follow Signs
After landing, follow the signs to "Passport Control" or "Immigration". Most major Egyptian airports have clear signage in both Arabic and English.
Step 2
Join the eVisa Queue
Look for the designated eVisa holders queue. This is usually separate from visa on arrival counters and can significantly reduce your waiting time.
Step 3
Present Your Documents
Hand your passport and printed eVisa confirmation to the immigration officer. They will verify your details in their electronic system.
Step 4
Answer Questions
The officer may ask about your travel purpose, accommodation, and length of stay. Answer honestly and confidently - you're there for tourism.
Step 5
Biometric Verification
You may be asked to provide fingerprints or have your photo taken as part of Egypt's biometric entry system for security purposes.
Step 6
Receive Entry Stamp
Once approved, the officer will stamp your passport with an entry stamp. This confirms your legal entry into Egypt with your eVisa.
Step 7
Collect Baggage
Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked luggage. Check the display screens for your flight number and carousel.
Step 8
Pass Through Customs
Go through customs declaration. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel. Welcome to Egypt!
Egypt's Main International Airports
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Egypt's largest and busiest airport, serving as the main gateway to the country. Located in Cairo, it handles millions of international passengers annually with modern facilities and efficient eVisa processing.
Hurghada International Airport (HRG)
A popular entry point for tourists heading to Red Sea resorts. The airport is well-equipped to handle eVisa holders with dedicated immigration lanes for faster processing.
Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH)
Serving the famous resort city on the Sinai Peninsula, this airport welcomes thousands of tourists with eVisas, offering streamlined immigration procedures.
Luxor International Airport (LXR)
The gateway to ancient Egyptian temples and monuments. Immigration staff here are experienced in processing eVisas for tourists visiting historical sites.
Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF)
A smaller but growing airport serving southern Red Sea resorts. eVisa processing is efficient, though facilities are more compact than larger airports.
Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport (HBE)
Serving Egypt's second-largest city, this airport handles both domestic and international flights with standard eVisa immigration procedures.
What Immigration Officers May Ask
Typical Questions
Be prepared to answer these common questions from immigration officers:
- Purpose of visit? - Answer: Tourism/vacation
- How long will you stay? - State your planned duration (maximum 30 days per entry)
- Where will you stay? - Provide your hotel name or accommodation address
- Do you have a return ticket? - Confirm you have onward/return travel booked
- Is this your first visit to Egypt? - Answer honestly
- What will you visit? - Mention tourist attractions like pyramids, museums, etc.
Tips for a Smooth Interview
Follow these tips when speaking with immigration officers:
- Answer questions clearly and concisely
- Be polite and respectful at all times
- Have your documents ready before reaching the counter
- Don't volunteer unnecessary information
- Stay calm and confident - you have a valid eVisa
- If you don't understand a question, politely ask for clarification
Important Information for eVisa Holders
Entry Requirements
Understanding these requirements will ensure smooth entry:
- Your eVisa must be valid on the day of arrival
- You must enter through an authorized port of entry
- The passport used must match your eVisa application exactly
- You cannot change your visa type at the border
- eVisa is for tourism only - not for work or study
- Maximum stay is 30 days per entry as stated in your eVisa
What If There's a Problem?
In rare cases, issues may arise. Here's what to do:
- If your eVisa isn't in the system, show your printed confirmation
- Remain calm and polite with immigration staff
- Have your application reference number ready
- Contact your airline representative if needed
- Keep emergency contact numbers accessible
- In case of rejection, you may need to apply for visa on arrival or return
How Long Does Immigration Take?
With eVisa (Recommended)
Immigration processing for eVisa holders is typically 15-30 minutes depending on flight arrivals and queue length. Having your documents ready can reduce this time significantly.
Peak Times
During peak tourist seasons (October-April) or when multiple international flights arrive simultaneously, expect 30-60 minutes wait time. Early morning and late evening flights usually have shorter queues.
Fastest Processing
To minimize your time at immigration, travel during off-peak hours, have all documents printed and ready, join the correct queue, and answer questions promptly and clearly.
After Clearing Immigration
Next Steps
Once you've successfully passed through immigration:
- Proceed to baggage claim and collect your luggage
- Check all bags are accounted for before leaving the area
- Go through customs declaration if you have items to declare
- Exit to the arrivals hall where you can find transportation
- Exchange currency at airport exchange offices if needed
- Purchase a local SIM card for mobile connectivity
- Arrange transportation to your accommodation
Keep Your Documents Safe
Throughout your stay in Egypt:
- Keep your passport in a safe place at all times
- Carry a copy of your passport and eVisa when sightseeing
- Store original documents in your hotel safe
- Note your eVisa expiry date and permitted stay duration
- If you need to extend your stay, apply before your visa expires
- Keep emergency contact numbers accessible
Frequently Asked Questions About Arriving with an eVisa
While Egyptian immigration officers can access your eVisa electronically, it is highly recommended to print a physical copy of your eVisa confirmation. This serves as backup in case of technical issues and speeds up the verification process. Additionally, keep a digital copy on your smartphone as a secondary backup. Some travelers have reported being asked specifically for a printed copy, so it's best to have one ready.
If the immigration officer cannot find your eVisa in their system, remain calm and present your printed eVisa confirmation email with the application reference number. The officer can use this information to manually verify your visa. In rare cases where technical issues persist, you may be directed to a supervisor who can resolve the matter. This is why having both printed and digital copies is crucial. If you're concerned about your eVisa status, check it before traveling.
The Egypt eVisa is valid for entry through all major international airports in Egypt, including Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Luxor, Marsa Alam, and Alexandria. However, it's important to note that eVisas are generally not valid for land border crossings or seaports - these entry points may have different visa requirements. Always verify that your planned entry point accepts eVisas before booking your travel.
For international flights to Egypt, arrive at your departure airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and any additional documentation checks. Airlines may verify that you have a valid eVisa before allowing you to board. Having your required documents ready at check-in will expedite this process.
Yes, even with an eVisa, you will receive an entry stamp in your passport from the immigration officer. This stamp indicates the date of entry and is important for tracking your permitted stay duration. The eVisa allows you to stay for up to 30 days per entry, and the entry stamp helps you calculate when you must leave Egypt. Make sure to check the stamp is clear and legible before leaving the immigration counter.
If you lose your printed eVisa confirmation, don't panic. Your eVisa is electronically linked to your passport in Egypt's immigration system. However, having a backup is always wise. Before traveling, email yourself a copy of your eVisa confirmation and save it in cloud storage. You can also access your eVisa by logging into the application portal with your reference number. If you applied through an agency, contact them for a replacement copy.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Arrival Experience
Before Departure
- Double-check your passport validity (6+ months required)
- Print multiple copies of your eVisa
- Save digital copies in multiple locations
- Verify your eVisa details match your passport exactly
During Flight
- Fill out arrival card if provided by airline
- Keep your eVisa and passport in carry-on luggage
- Review your accommodation details
- Prepare answers to common immigration questions
At Immigration
- Join the correct queue for eVisa holders
- Have documents ready before reaching counter
- Be polite and answer questions clearly
- Don't use your phone while at the counter
After Arrival
- Verify your entry stamp is correct
- Keep your passport and eVisa safe
- Note your permitted stay duration
- Enjoy your Egyptian adventure!
Related Information
Before You Apply
Learn about the Egypt eVisa system and check if your country is on the eligible countries list.
Application Process
Follow our step-by-step application guide and learn about processing times.
During Your Stay
Understand your visa validity period and learn how to extend your stay if needed.
Ready to Start Your Egypt Journey?
Apply for your Egypt eVisa today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the land of pharaohs
Apply for Egypt eVisa Now