Egypt
Egypt travel guide for Americans
US citizens need a visa to enter Egypt. You can get a tourist visa on arrival at major airports or apply for an e-Visa online before you travel. The visa costs about US$25–60 depending on type; single-entry is cheaper. Plan for a 30-day stay, and check the latest entry rules before you fly.
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GuideEgypt
Key facts
- Visa required
- Yes – e-Visa or visa on arrival for US citizens
- Visa cost
- About US$25–60 (single vs multiple entry)
- Max stay
- 30 days on a tourist visa
- Passport validity
- At least 6 months beyond arrival
- Currencycheck
- Egyptian pound (EGP), about 47–50 per US$
- Plugs
- Types C and F, 220 V 50 Hz
- Emergency numbers
- 122 police · 123 ambulance · 126 tourist police
Quick answer
US citizens need a visa for Egypt; get an e‑Visa online (US$25 single entry) or a visa on arrival (US$25–60). Plan up to 30 days, passport valid 6 months.
Entry requirements for US citizens
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival. A tourist visa is required; the e‑Visa portal is the easiest method. Visa on arrival is available at major airports for cash payment.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport validity | At least 6 months beyond arrival |
| Visa | e‑Visa or visa on arrival |
| Visa cost | US$25 single entry, US$60 multiple entry |
| Max stay | 30 days per entry |
| Extension | Possible at passport office, fees apply |
Check the official portal before booking; rules may change.
US Embassy in Egypt
The US Embassy in Cairo provides consular assistance, passport services, and emergency help for Americans.
- Address: 5 Tawfik Diab St, Garden City, Cairo
- Phone: +20 2 2797 3300
- After‑hours emergency: +20 2 2797 3300 (ask for duty officer)
- Register with STEP before travel
Trip costs in USD
Egypt is affordable for US travellers. Budget travellers can manage on US$40–60 per day; mid‑range on US$80–150 per day. Figures exclude international flights.
| Expense | Budget (USD) | Mid‑range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | 10–30 | 40–100 |
| Meals (per day) | 10–20 | 25–50 |
| Local transport (per day) | 2–5 | 10–20 |
| Entrance fees (per site) | 5–15 | 10–25 |
| Nile cruise (per night) | 50–100 | 150–300 |
| Total per day | 40–60 | 80–150 |
2026 estimates; season and exchange rate affect prices.
Flights from the US
Most US travellers connect via Europe or the Gulf. Direct Cairo flights are rare; typical total travel time is 14–20 hours depending on routing.
| Route | Typical flight time |
|---|---|
| New York (JFK) → Cairo | 10–11 h direct, 14–18 h with connection |
| Los Angeles (LAX) → Cairo | 16–20 h with connection |
| Chicago (ORD) → Cairo | 13–15 h with connection |
| Miami (MIA) → Cairo | 13–16 h with connection |
Times are approximate.
Power plugs and voltage
Egypt uses Type C and Type F plugs, 220 V, 50 Hz. US travellers need a plug adapter and, if devices are not dual‑voltage, a voltage converter.
Tipping (baksheesh)
Small tips are customary: EGP 20–50 for hotel staff, guides, drivers; 10–15 % in restaurants. Carry cash in small denominations.
Emergency numbers
Police: 122, Ambulance: 123, Tourist police: 126, Fire: 180. Keep the numbers handy and note the US Embassy address.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Egypt?
Yes. US citizens need a tourist visa. You can apply for an e-Visa online before travel (about US$25 single entry) or buy a visa on arrival at major airports (about US$25). Both allow a 30-day stay.
How much does a trip to Egypt cost in USD?
Budget travellers spend about US$40–60 per day, mid-range US$80–150 per day, excluding international flights. Entrance fees, Nile cruises, and Red Sea resorts add to the cost. Prices are 2026 estimates.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Egypt?
The US Embassy is in Cairo at 5 Tawfik Diab Street, Garden City. It offers consular services for American citizens, including passport help and emergency assistance. Phone: +20 2 2797 3300 (check).
Can I get a visa on arrival in Egypt?
Yes, at major airports like Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh. Look for the bank kiosk in arrivals, pay in cash (US dollars or Egyptian pounds), and get a stamp in your passport. It's usually faster to get an e-Visa beforehand.
Is Egypt safe for American tourists?
Most visits are trouble-free, but follow local advice. Avoid border areas and large demonstrations. Register with STEP and check the State Department's travel advisory. See our safety page for details.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
- officialUS State Department – Egypt travel advisory
- officialEgyptian e-Visa portal
- officialUS Embassy in Egypt
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialUS State Department – Egypt travel advisory
- officialEgyptian e-Visa portal
- officialUS Embassy in Egypt
Ask about Egypt
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