🇪🇬 Egypt visa for Japan citizens

Most nationalities get a 30-day visa on arrival for Egypt. That includes US, EU, UK, and Canadian citizens. Some others need to apply beforehand.

Who gets what visa on arrival

If you're from the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, or Norway, you can get a 30-day visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI) or other major entry points. It costs $25 USD. You'll typically pay in cash, so have that ready. It's a single-entry visa.

Many other nationalities also qualify for this $25, 30-day visa on arrival. This includes citizens of Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, and many others across Africa and Asia. It's worth double-checking the full list on the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before you fly, as it can change.

If your passport isn't on either of those lists, you'll likely need to apply for a visa before you arrive. This usually means visiting an Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country or a neighbouring one. Processing times can vary, so don't leave this to the last minute.

How long can you actually stay?

The standard visa, whether on arrival or pre-approved, grants you 30 days in Egypt. What happens if you need more time? You can extend this visa, but it's not always straightforward. You'll need to go to the Mugamma building in Cairo or other immigration offices. This process can take days and involves a lot of paperwork.

Overstaying your visa is where things get tricky. While minor overstays might sometimes be overlooked, especially if you're leaving quickly, it's a gamble. The official penalties can include fines and potentially being banned from re-entry. For instance, a few days over might incur a fee of around 50-100 EGP per day. Longer overstays can lead to detention. Always aim to exit before your visa expires. Remember that your exit stamp date is crucial; it dictates when your next visa clock starts.

Working remotely on a tourist visa

This is a grey area. Technically, a tourist visa doesn't permit employment or business activities. Working remotely for a company outside Egypt on a tourist stamp is something many digital nomads do. The Egyptian authorities are generally more concerned with people trying to gain local employment or conduct business within Egypt.

Most travellers just use their 30-day tourist visa to work online from cafes or co-working spaces. You're unlikely to face issues as long as you're not trying to set up a local business or get paid by an Egyptian entity. The key is that your income source is external. Don't expect immigration officials to ask about your work status upon arrival; they're focused on your entry purpose.

What's new with Egypt's visas?

Egypt has been expanding its eVisa system. This online portal allows citizens of many countries to apply for a visa before travelling, avoiding the queues and cash payment at the airport. The eVisa is typically for a 90-day stay, valid for 30 days from entry, and allows for single entry. It costs $25 USD for the standard single-entry visa, similar to the on-arrival fee, but there's also a $60 USD option for a multiple-entry visa valid for 180 days.

The list of eligible countries for the eVisa has grown, and it's a much smoother process for those who qualify. Check the official Egyptian eVisa portal to see if your nationality is included. This system is relatively new, and its implementation, along with fee structures, has seen adjustments in the last year or so. It's always wise to check the official government sites for the most current information before your trip.