Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has made an announcement regarding international travelers visiting Egypt. He revealed that individuals traveling with an eVisa will now have the opportunity to stay in the country for a maximum period of 5 years.

The Egyptian eVisa System

In late 2017, Egypt introduced an electronic visa system, which allows nationals from 46 different countries to conveniently apply online for an Egyptian eVisa. This digital system has streamlined the visa application process, making it more accessible and efficient for eligible travelers.

Extension of Stay Duration

Initially, the eVisa for Egypt granted visitors a single entry into the country with a maximum stay of 30 days. However, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly's recent announcement brings good news for international travelers.

The key details of the extension are as follows:

• The duration of stay allowed with the eVisa has been extended.
• The new extension allows visitors to stay in Egypt for an impressive 5-year period.

This extended stay duration offers greater flexibility and convenience for travelers who wish to explore Egypt's rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural wonders. Whether it's experiencing the iconic pyramids, cruising along the Nile River, or immersing oneself in the vibrant markets of Cairo, visitors can now plan longer trips and make the most of their time in the country.

Implementation Details

The official announcement was made during a meeting between the Egyptian cabinet and representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities on March 2, 2020. Prime Minister Madbouly emphasized that this 5-year extension applies to all foreign nationals, regardless of whether they apply for the eVisa through the online portal or at Egyptian consulates.

Special Initiative: "Summer in Upper Egypt"

Alongside the significant extension of stay, an additional initiative called "Summer in Upper Egypt" was introduced. As part of this initiative, travelers arriving at Luxor Airport between June and August 2020 will enjoy a discount of US$10 on their tourist visas. This incentive aims to encourage more visitors to explore the wonders of Upper Egypt during the summer months.

The Implementation of Egypt's Electronic Visa System for Foreign Visitors

The Egypt eVisa is a mandatory requirement for all travelers of eligible nationalities who are traveling to the state for the purposes of tourism or business, or who are transiting through the country.

Eligible Nationalities

Citizens of the following sovereign states can apply for the eVisa for Egypt:

• All European Union citizens
• Albania
• Australia
• Canada
• Iceland
• Japan
• North Korea
• South Korea
• Moldova
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Norway
• Russia
• Serbia
• Switzerland
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City

Passport Validity and Presentation

To successfully obtain an Egyptian eVisa, applicants must have a passport that will be valid for at least six months. The approved eVisa must be printed and presented along with the passport at border control upon arrival in Egypt.

Length of Stay

Currently, the eVisa permits the bearer to stay in Egypt for up to 30 days. However, following the announcement from the Prime Minister, this looks set to change to a maximum of 5 years in the country.

Boosting Tourism and Economy

The extension of the maximum length of stay for visitors is a strong indication of the Egyptian government’s desire to increase the number of tourists from around the globe. The country’s Foreign Ministry continues to make the procedures for acquiring a visa easier and easier for both tourists and businessmen. The aim is to encourage investment and spending by foreign companies and visitors to boost the Egyptian economy.

Positive Impact on Economy

The introduction of the Egyptian eVisa has had a positive impact on the nation’s economy, with tourism sector revenues rising by 28% in the year following its launch. Egypt’s revenue from tourism in the 2017/2018 fiscal year was recorded at US$9.8 billion, while that of 2018/2019 rose to US$12.2 billion.

When Can We Expect the Introduction of the Egypt Visa Extension Program?

Currently, there is limited information available regarding the plan to extend the maximum length of stay for eVisa holders in Egypt. On March 2, 2020, Prime Minister Madbouly discussed the proposed change to Egypt's visa policy during a meeting with his cabinet and representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Uncertainty Surrounding Implementation Date and Requirements

Despite the announcement, specific details about the implementation date and potential additional requirements for the extended stay have not been disclosed yet. It remains unclear when the change will take effect and whether the ability to stay for up to 5 years will be subject to any new conditions.

Current Maximum Stay Duration

Until further information is provided, the maximum length of time visitors are permitted to stay in Egypt with the eVisa will remain 30 days.

• Limited details available regarding the Egypt visa extension program
• Prime Minister Madbouly announced the proposed change on March 2, 2020
• Implementation date and potential additional requirements remain unknown
• Maximum length of stay with the eVisa currently set at 30 days.