In a significant development for international travel, the Egyptian government has recently implemented a new policy that extends the convenience of on-arrival visas to Bangladeshi citizens. However, this facility comes with specific prerequisites. Eligibility for this on-arrival visa is exclusively reserved for those Bangladeshi passport holders who possess valid, previously used visas or current residence permits from a select group of countries. 

This list includes prominent nations such as Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and countries within the European Schengen area. Individuals who meet these criteria can avail themselves of the on-arrival visa at any Egyptian port of entry.

This policy change was communicated to the Bangladesh Embassy in Cairo through an official circular from the Office of the Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia, operating under the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. The Bangladesh Ambassador to Egypt, Monirul Islam, provided further insights into this development. He noted that in recent months, Bangladeshi nationals faced considerable hurdles in securing visas from Egyptian embassies worldwide, including the embassy in Dhaka. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these difficulties, leading to prolonged waiting periods for visa applicants.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Egypt advocated for a more streamlined and simplified visa process in response to these challenges. This request was put forth during a meeting in March with the relevant Egyptian authorities and the Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia. Ambassador Monirul expressed optimism about the new arrangement, highlighting its potential to facilitate more accessible travel to Egypt for many Bangladeshis. He emphasised the particular advantage for those intending to transit through Cairo en route to Europe and America.

The embassy further clarified that this new visa facility is initially set to be available until April of the following year. However, there is a possibility for an extension of this term, subject to future discussions between Bangladesh and Egypt.

For those planning to visit Egypt under this new provision, the embassy advises carrying a translated copy of the Egyptian government's circular dated August 18, 2022. This document is available on the verified Facebook page of the Bangladesh Embassy in Cairo, ensuring easy access for potential travellers to demonstrate and utilise this significant update in travel policy.

Egypt Visa on Arrival for Bangladeshi Citizens: Eligibility and Visa Acquisition Process

The Egyptian government has specified that this on-arrival visa facility is exclusively available to Bangladeshi passport holders with valid, previously used visas or current residence permits from certain countries. This prestigious list includes Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and nations within the European Schengen area.

Visa Acquisition Process

Upon arrival at any Egyptian port of entry, eligible individuals can avail themselves of this on-arrival visa. This development is particularly advantageous for those transiting through Cairo en route to Europe and America.

FAQs

What are the Egypt visa requirements for Bangladeshi citizens under the new policy?

Eligible Bangladeshi citizens must have a valid, previously used visa or a current residence permit from specified countries.

Is the on-arrival visa available at all Egyptian ports of entry?

Yes, this facility is available at all Egyptian ports of entry, including Cairo International Airport and Sharm El Sheikh Airport.

How long can Bangladeshi citizens stay in Egypt with an on-arrival visa?

The stay is usually up to 30 days, but travellers should verify this based on the latest updates from Egyptian authorities.