Egypt: New electronic visa system from June 1

Event

The Egyptian Minister of Communications and Information Technology has announced that Egypt will soon implement a new electronic visa system, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), for travelers from various countries. The system - currently scheduled to come into effect on June 1, 2017 - will allow travelers to apply for a visa online for trips up to 30 days in duration. The list of eligible countries has not yet been finalized, but travelers from various European Union countries (including France) as well as Australia, Canada, and the United States will be included. However, US, UK, and EU nationals visiting the popular tourist destinations of Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, and Taba do not require any visa for stays of up to 15 days.

Concerned individuals - i.e. business travelers, tourists, and transit travelers - will be required to apply for the eVisa at least one week prior to arrival in Egypt. Information regarding the price of the eVisa has not yet been released. 

The scheme was originally intended to be introduced in May; further postponements cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Travelers are advised to contact the nearest Egyptian consulate for more information.