Egypt Visa for France Citizens 2026 - Requirements, Fees & Processing
Complete Egypt tourist visa guide for French citizens. E-visa and visa on arrival options, $25 fee, 30-day stay, and Sinai exemption. Updated December 2026.
At a glance
Overview
Planning a trip to Egypt as a French citizen? You have three convenient options: apply for an e-visa online for $25, get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports, or visit Sinai resorts visa-free for up to 15 days. With a 97% approval rate and straightforward requirements, exploring Egypt's pyramids and Red Sea is simple for French passport holders.
Visa Application process
Visit the official Egypt e-visa portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg2
Create an account using your email address
Select “Tourist Visa” and choose single or multiple entry
Complete the application form with your personal and travel details
Upload a clear passport scan and compliant photo
Pay the visa fee ($25 single, $60 multiple) via credit or debit card
Receive your approved e-visa by email within 2-7 days3
Print your e-visa and present it at Egyptian immigration
Arrive at an Egyptian international airport (Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or Aswan)
Proceed to the visa counter before passport control
Present your French passport and $25 in cash (US dollars or euros accepted)1
Receive your visa sticker and proceed to immigration
The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes
Ensure your carte nationale d’identité is valid for at least 6 months after your return date
Bring two passport-sized photographs
At the airport, you will receive a paper form for your visa
Verify the official correctly writes your name and ID number on the form
Keep this visa form safe throughout your stay, as you will need it to exit Egypt
Visa Fees breakdown
| Visa Type: E-Visa/VOA | Single Entry: $25 | Multiple Entry: $60 | Sinai Only Permit: Free | E-visa fees must be paid by credit or debit card.2 Visa on arrival can be paid in US dollars or euros cash.1 The equivalent amount in euros is calculated at the current exchange rate. |
|---|
What you need to prove
Egypt’s tourist visa requirements are straightforward for French citizens. You must demonstrate:
- Valid travel documents: A French passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date with at least one blank page, OR a valid national identity card with two passport photos 1
- Basic travel plans: Hotel booking or accommodation address
- Intent to depart: Evidence of onward travel or return flight (may be requested)
Required documents
- Valid Passport
- Digital Photograph
- Passport Copy
- Visa Fee Payment
- Travel Details
Valid Passport
Digital Photograph
Passport Copy
Visa Fee Payment
Travel Details
Optional documents
National ID Card (Alternative) | E-Visa Application | Onward Travel
National ID Card (Alternative)
E-Visa Application
Onward Travel
Comparison
| Visa Type | E-Visa/VOA | Validity | Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | $25 | 3 months | 30 days |
| Multiple Entry | $60 | 6 months | 30 days per visit |
| Sinai Only Permit | Free | 15 days | Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba only |
Common rejection reasons
| % | Reason |
|---|---|
| 40% | Incorrect Personal Information |
| 25% | Poor Quality Documents |
| 20% | Invalid Passport |
| 10% | Payment Processing Failure |
| 5% | Security Flags |
40% - Incorrect Personal Information
How to avoid: Double-check that all information matches your passport character for character, including middle names (prénoms) and spelling variations.
25% - Poor Quality Documents
How to avoid: Upload high-resolution scans with all four corners visible. Ensure your photo has a plain background and good lighting.
20% - Invalid Passport
How to avoid: Renew your passport if it expires within 6 months of your planned return date from Egypt.
10% - Payment Processing Failure
How to avoid: Contact your bank before applying to enable international payments, or try a different card.
5% - Security Flags
How to avoid: If you have concerns about your eligibility, apply through the Egyptian Consulate in Paris for a pre-reviewed visa.
Frequently asked questions
Do French citizens need a visa for Egypt?
Yes, French citizens need a visa to enter Egypt. You can get one online through the e-visa portal, upon arrival at Egyptian airports, or through the Egyptian Consulate in France. E-visa and visa on arrival both cost $25 for a single entry, 30-day visa.
Can French citizens use an ID card instead of passport for Egypt?
Yes, French citizens can enter Egypt with a valid national identity card (carte nationale d'identité) instead of a passport. You must bring two passport-sized photos, and your visa will be issued on a separate paper form at the airport.
How long does the Egypt e-visa take to process?
Egypt e-visa applications typically process within 2-7 business days. Most applications are approved within 4 days. Apply at least 7 days before your trip. If you need to travel sooner, opt for the visa on arrival at the airport.
Can French citizens get a visa on arrival in Egypt?
Yes, French citizens can get a tourist visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports including Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. The fee is $25 in cash (US dollars or euros accepted).
How long can I stay in Egypt on a tourist visa?
A standard tourist visa allows you to stay up to 30 days. You can extend your stay at Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices for an additional fee.
What is the difference between single and multiple entry Egypt visas?
A single entry visa ($25) allows one entry within 3 months of issue. A multiple entry visa ($60) is valid for 6 months and allows unlimited entries, with each stay limited to 30 days.
Do I need a visa for Sharm El Sheikh as a French citizen?
If you are only visiting Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba for 15 days or less, you can get a free entry stamp on arrival. For longer stays or travel to other parts of Egypt, you need a standard visa.
What happens if my Egypt e-visa is rejected?
You will receive an email explaining the reason. Common issues include typos in your application or poor document quality. You can reapply after correcting the errors. The fee is non-refundable.
Can I extend my Egypt tourist visa?
Yes, you can extend your stay at any Egyptian Passport and Immigration Office before your visa expires. Extensions are typically granted for up to 6 months total stay. Overstaying results in fines at departure.
What documents do I need for Egypt visa on arrival?
Bring your valid French passport (6+ months validity) or national ID card with two photos, $25 in cash (USD or euros), and proof of accommodation. Have your return flight details ready as immigration may ask about your travel plans.
Is the Egypt e-visa official website safe?
The only official Egypt e-visa portal is visa2egypt.gov.eg, operated by the Ministry of Interior. Be wary of third-party sites charging higher fees. Always verify you are on the .gov.eg domain.
What is the Sinai permit for French tourists?
French tourists visiting only Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba for up to 15 days receive a free entry stamp instead of a visa. This permit restricts travel to the Sinai Peninsula only.
Sources
https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/egypte/
https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/eVisa/Home
https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/eVisa/FAQ
https://eg.ambafrance.org/