Egypt Visa & Policy Updates
Egypt has extended the per-visit stay limit for five-year multiple-entry visa holders from 90 to 180 days and introduced a $36 digital QR code visa-on-arrival system. Travelers now face a 90-day validity limit on local SIM cards and a 38.5% tax on imported mobile devices. Additionally, foreign residents must obtain smart residency cards to maintain access to banking, healthcare, and education services.
Egypt imposes 38.5% phone tax after 90 days of local SIM use
Egypt has introduced a new 90-day validity limit on local SIM cards issued to foreign visitors upon arrival. The regulatory update also ends customs duty exemptions on imported personal mobile devices. Travelers and remote workers staying beyond three months must prepare for telecom renewals or international eSIM alternatives.
Egypt doubles 5-year multiple-entry visa stays to 180 days
Egypt's cabinet has extended the permitted stay per entry for holders of the five-year multiple-entry visa from 90 to 180 days. Visitors can also obtain a tourist residence card covering the full six-month duration. The change allows remote workers and frequent travelers to remain in Egypt for longer stretches without doing border runs.
Egypt raises Visa On Arrival fee to 36 dollars with new QR code system
Egypt has introduced an electronic visa-on-arrival system starting at Cairo International Airport. Arriving travelers now receive a digital QR code via an online portal, app, or airport kiosk instead of a physical sticker visa. The updated process streamlines entry for tourists, expats, and digital nomads.
Egypt ties banking and healthcare access to smart residency cards starting May 19
Foreign residents in Egypt must regularize their legal status and obtain new smart residency cards to maintain access to essential services. The requirement affects banking, healthcare, education, and administrative procedures for all expats and long-term travelers.
Egypt Doubles Per-Visit Stay Limit for the $700 Five-Year Visa
Egypt has extended the maximum stay for five-year multiple-entry visa holders from 90 to 180 days per visit. Travelers can now also apply for a tourist residence card that remains valid even if they exit and re-enter the country during that period.