Egypt is one of the most popular destinations for winter travel. Find out the latest information on the increase in the cost of tourist visas to Egypt in 2025: new tariffs, entry rules, how to save on the Sinai stamp and what travelers need to know

Starting December 1, 2025, Egypt has officially increased the cost of tourist visas, a decision that immediately caused a reaction in the tourism industry. The new rules are already in effect, so travelers should be aware of the changes in order to plan their trip correctly.

In this article, we analyze why the visa has become more expensive, who will be affected by the decision, how to save money, and whether it could affect the flow of tourists to the country.

Planning a trip abroad? Use the Visit World Travel Guide - a convenient tool that will help you prepare for your trip safely and independently. It contains all the visa requirements, entry rules, permitted periods of stay, a list of documents and useful tips for travelers. Get the information you need in one PDF file and travel with confidence.

How much has the cost of tourist visas in Egypt increased?

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi signed a decree that increases the cost of an entry tourist visa from $25 to $45.

This is a standard single-entry visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days.

The increase applies to both visas issued at the airport upon arrival and electronic e-Visas that tourists can obtain in advance online.

The decision has already come into force.

Why did Egypt increase the cost of tourist visas?

According to international travel portals, the increase in the cost of visas is part of the government's overall strategy to mobilize additional revenues and modernize consular services.

However, the decision was received ambiguously in the tourism industry:

- Tour operator associations warned that the increase by almost 80% could reduce Egypt's competitiveness;

- Experts remind that the country is still recovering from the decline in tourist flows in recent years;

- A number of hotel and transport operators expressed concerns that the new costs could "push" some travelers away from budget markets.

Despite this, the government decided not to postpone the changes.

To which countries does the new $45 visa fee apply?

The new fee applies to most tourists entering Egypt for recreation, including:

- Citizens of European countries.

- Citizens of the United Kingdom.

- Citizens of Canada, the United States, and most Asian countries.

Important! The e-Visa now also costs $45.

And is there still the option of free entry to Egypt?

Yes. There is one budget option that has remained unchanged: the Sinai Only Stamp (free).

This is a special permit that allows you to stay in the Sinai Peninsula for up to 15 days without paying a visa.

It can be obtained upon arrival at the airport of Sharm el-Sheikh, Taba, Dahab, Nuweiba.

But there is an important condition - the tourist does not have the right to leave the Sinai territory. That is, you cannot go to Cairo, Luxor or Hurghada with such a stamp.

This is a great option for those who are planning: an all-inclusive vacation in Sharm, diving in Dahab, or a short 7-10-day vacation.

How will the increase in the cost of tourist visas affect the tourism industry?

Experts predict a possible short-term decline in the flow of tourists.

The increase in the cost of visas may affect tourists from budget markets - for example, from Eastern Europe or South Asia, where even +$20 is significant, but Egypt remains attractive

Despite the new price, the country remains one of the most affordable winter and beach destinations due to:

- low cost of hotels with a high level of service

- warm climate all year round

- large selection of resorts

- simple entry system

So, globally, experts do not expect a "serious collapse" in tourist flows.

Tips for tourists: how to prepare for a trip to Egypt in 2025-2026

1. Check the latest information

It is better to clarify the rules before departure - sometimes they ask for cash in dollars.

2. If you are going to Sinai - ask for a Sinai Stamp

This is a real opportunity to save money. However, strictly follow the rule "no leaving the peninsula".

3. Apply for an e-Visa in advance

This will help you avoid queues and possible disruptions in the operation of the terminals at the airport.

4. Have small bills

Airports sometimes require the exact amount and do not always have change.

5. Plan a budget

Visa fees are additional costs that should be taken into account when booking a tour or an independent trip.

The increase in the cost of a tourist visa to Egypt is an important update that will affect most travelers. However, the country remains one of the most popular destinations for winter and beach holidays. Timely documents, proper planning, and knowledge of the free “Sinai stamp” will help you travel comfortably and without unnecessary expenses.

Changes in Egypt’s visa rules are a reason to prepare for your trip in advance and avoid misunderstandings when crossing the border. The tourist guide from Visit World will be your reliable assistant: in it you will find step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa, up-to-date information on the cost of the visa fee, a photo of a visa sample, rules for filling out the application form and a full list of required documents.

The guide also contains life hacks for travel and tips on how to avoid unnecessary expenses - for example, when it is advisable to apply for an e-Visa and when you can use the free Sinai Stamp. After applying, you will receive a PDF file to your email in just a few minutes and will be able to prepare for the trip without the help of travel agents.

Order the guide today and set off on a fabulous journey!

Reminder! The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza opened on November 4, 2025. We have already talked about the expositions, opening hours, tickets, routes and the main treasures of the GEM.

Photo – Freepik

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