Visa Requirements for Egypt for Indian Citizens (November 2026)

The pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor, a Nile cruise and the Red Sea resorts make Egypt a bucket-list trip for many Indian travellers. Indian citizens need a visa to visit Egypt, but there are several routes to get one, and for most tourists the process is simple.

Option 1: The Egypt e-Visa

Egypt runs an official e-Visa portal that is open to Indian citizens. You apply online, upload your passport and pay the fee. Approval usually arrives by email within about a week, though applying earlier is wise.

The e-Visa is offered as single-entry or multiple-entry, with tourist stays of up to 30 days per entry. Current fees for single-entry and multiple-entry visas are shown on the portal at the time of applying.

Only use the official government portal. Many lookalike websites charge large extra fees.

Option 2: Visa on arrival with qualifying visas

Indian citizens who hold a valid, used visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen Area, Japan, Canada, Australia or New Zealand have been allowed to get a visa on arrival in Egypt. The rules on which visas qualify can change, so confirm with the Egyptian Embassy or your airline before you depend on this option.

Visa on arrival is paid at bank counters in the airport arrival hall before immigration. Carry US dollars in cash for this.

Option 3: Embassy visa

If you do not qualify for the e-Visa or visa on arrival, or you need a different visa type, apply through the Embassy of Egypt in New Delhi or the Consulate in Mumbai. Business, study and work visas also go through the embassy.

Documents you need

• A passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date
• Your approved e-Visa, or a qualifying visa for visa on arrival
• Return flight tickets
• Hotel bookings or cruise reservations
• Sufficient funds for your trip

Sinai-only entry

Visitors flying directly to Sharm El Sheikh and staying within certain South Sinai resort areas can get a free Sinai-only entry stamp for short stays. Eligibility for Indian passport holders depends on current rules. If you plan to visit Cairo, Luxor or anywhere outside the zone, you need a full visa.

Travel tips for Egypt

• Carry cash in US dollars and Egyptian pounds. Tipping is common.
• Book guided tours through reputable operators, especially for Luxor and Aswan.
• Dress modestly at mosques and religious sites.
• Drink bottled water and avoid street food that is not freshly cooked.
• Expect heat. Visit major sites early in the morning in summer.

Frequently asked questions

How long can Indians stay in Egypt on a tourist visa?

Usually up to 30 days per entry. Extensions are possible at immigration offices in Egypt.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended.

Can I apply for the e-Visa on arrival day?

No. Apply at least a week before departure.

Mistakes that cause problems at the border

Most travel problems linked to Egypt for Indian Citizens come from small oversights rather than refusals. Airlines deny boarding more often than immigration officers do, usually because a passport is too close to expiry, an online authorisation was never approved, or the traveller cannot show an onward ticket. Another common issue is mixing up stay limits, especially when a trip covers several countries with different rules. Before you leave, write down your permitted length of stay, the date you must exit, and the documents each border may ask to see. Keep digital and printed copies, since phones die and airport Wi-Fi fails at the worst moments.

Final word

For most Indian tourists, the e-Visa is the simplest way into Egypt. If you already hold a US, UK or Schengen visa, visa on arrival may be even easier. Confirm the current rules before you fly.