Egypt extends free transit visa program for another year
Egypt has announced the extension of its 96-hour free transit visa program through the end of April 2026, an initiative that allows layover passengers to explore the country without fees or complicated paperwork.
The Egyptian government has announced the extension, until the end of April 2026, of its 96-hour free transit visa initiative granted to passengers stopping over at the country’s international airports.
“This approval comes as part of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ ongoing efforts to expand its facilities and attract more inbound tourists from various markets,” stated the official report from the Cabinet’s weekly meeting. “It is expected to lead to an increase in tourist arrivals, higher hotel occupancy rates, and longer overnight stays.”
The measure, initially introduced in June 2023, is part of efforts to boost the tourism sector and strengthen Egypt’s position as an air transit hub between Africa, Asia and Europe.
A strategic move to boost tourism in Egypt
Initially rolled out in June 2023, the 96-hour free transit visa was introduced as the global tourism industry began to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Tourism positioned it as a tool to promote short-stay tourism and encourage more visitors to explore Egypt, even briefly.
Following its early success, the government extended the policy once in 2024, and has now announced a further extension through April 30, 2026.
Eligibility requirements and participating airlines
To take advantage of the free transit visa, travelers must meet specific criteria.
They must be transiting through one of Egypt’s international airports, such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, or Borg El Arab, and have a layover of at least 8 hours but no longer than 96 hours.
A key eligibility condition is the airline used. The program is only available to passengers flying with Egyptian carriers: EgyptAir, its subsidiary Air Cairo, or Nile Air. This means travelers must arrive in and depart from Egypt using one of these three airlines in order to qualify for the free transit visa.
The offer is only available to travelers from countries eligible for a visa on arrival (or an “emergency entry” visa). This includes citizens of most EU countries, the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia, among others. Nationals who require a pre-arranged visa and are not eligible for a visa on arrival are not eligible for the free transit visa.
As with all entries into Egypt, whether through an e-Visa, visa on arrival, or consular visa, passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
How to get the free transit visa in Egypt
No advance application is required. Here’s how the process works for eligible travelers:
- Upon Arrival: When landing in Egypt, do not immediately exit the transit zone. Instead, go to the airline’s transit visa desk or speak with their on-site representative.
- Documents Needed: At the desk, you’ll fill out a short form with your personal details. Present your passport and flight ticket or boarding pass. The staff will verify your eligibility (based on nationality and connecting flight within the 96-hour limit).
- Visa Issuance: If approved, you’ll be issued a free entry visa. This visa allows you to stay in Egypt for up to 96 hours (4 days) at no cost, instead of the usual $25 visa fee. You’re then free to exit the airport and explore the country during your layover.
Aiming to boost tourism and foreign currency revenue
The goal of this policy is to entice transit passengers, who might otherwise remain inside airport terminals, to step out and experience Egypt. By offering simple, no-cost access to the country for a limited time, Egypt aims to generate direct economic benefits from short-stay tourism.
The Ministry of Tourism also noted that the program helps strengthen Egypt’s image as an accessible travel destination and attracts a wider variety of visitors, including business travelers and those en route between continents.
Originally published at VisaNews
