Egypt Visa on Arrival vs. e-Visa: Which Option Is Best for You?
When applying for a visa, the first step is to analyze the best option to acquire them. There are various options to apply for a visa. You can get an Egypt entry visa on arrival, apply for them online, and get one from your nearest Egyptian embassy. So, let’s analyze the best option for you.
Egypt, the Motherland of Civilization, has been one of the most popular tourist hot spots for tourists, travelers, and business enthusiasts. With its ancient rustic old-world charm and some of the most popular architectural wonders, Egypt has an unparalleled mystery about itself. Egypt has a glorious history, whether the mummies or the marvels of ancient stories.
It has, therefore, for centuries, been a favourite among explorers. However, in today’s world, a visa is the most vital document to travel anywhere. Being a popular travel spot among people, Egypt has various visa options available.
Besides getting to choose from quite a few options, you also have the convenience to choose your preferred method in acquiring these visas. You can either opt for an e-visa online, you can visit the Embassy or you can also get an Egypt entry visa on arrival. Just like every other thing, each of these options comes with its fair share of positives and negatives. You just have to know about them in detail to choose the best option. Let’s explore.
What is an Egypt Entry Visa on Arrival?
Just as you can guess from the name, this type of visa is issued to the traveler as he or she lands in Egypt. There is no need to go through the application process beforehand. Usually, to acquire these visas, a government officer will examine your passport and verify your documents per Egyptian standards. They will also collect the basic application fee before your document is issued. Some nations also use biometrics to confirm your identity and for background checks, including criminal history and immigration.
Similar to a regular visa, visa stamps are printed on your passport. Therefore, you must have enough empty pages on your passport for visa stamps. It is also vital to remember that you can only get your visas on arrival from the major entry points including airports and large ports.
Benefits of the Egypt Visa on Arrival
Obtaining a visa on arrival is a simple process, as it allows all the steps to be done in one place. The applicants will also not have to visit any embassy or consulate before. However, some countries may need proof of onward travel or return, accommodation there, and enough funds to sustain your stay.
Generally, visas on arrival are also out of immigration control. This implies that the officer who will issue your visa will differ from the one who will allow you to enter the border. This is necessary to limit the chances of biases and corruption that might otherwise go out of control.
Who Is Eligible for the Egypt Visa on Arrival?
Any tourist who wishes to obtain a tourist visa on arrival can do so. However, you will have to present the right documents and carry all the documentation proof and funds necessary for an Egypt entry visa on arrival, only then you will be able to get one.
Exploring the Egypt e-Visa Option
One of the most popular options for an Egyptian visa is to apply for it online. This process is very simple where all you have to do is visit the site and follow a few easy steps to get your visa in no time. So, let’s look at what this document actually is.
What is the Egypt e-Visa?
The eVisa acts as a travel document that gives entry access to the traveler into the land. One can easily apply and obtain the visa online. This is an authentic official authorization that follows through with your eligibility and only then permits you to enter the nation.
In case you are planning to apply for an e-visa, it is vital to note that only countries eligible for an e-visa can apply for it. Regardless of whether you are eligible for one, this process has certainly made traveling to Egypt effortless and hassle-free.
One massive advantage of an e-visa is that it allows travelers to acquire a visa without having to go through the troubles of an embassy or a consulate. The e-visa website also allows you to check if you are among the nations eligible to travel to Egypt. Needless to say, the procedure does not call for much effort from your end.
Advantages of Choosing the Egypt e-Visa
There are various advantages to choosing an Egypt e-visa. The primary benefit of an e-visa is that it allows you to acquire an authentic travel document in a few simple steps from the comfort of your home.
Another major benefit of an e-visa is that since you are submitting all scanned copies of your documents online, it helps you sort them more clearly and have better security. There is no chance of losing your vital documents as the whole process is done online.
Additionally, unlike visas on arrival or the ones acquired via the embassy, you will not have to stand in long queues, book special appointments, or dedicate a whole day to one document. These e-visas take not more than 20 minutes and you will get your documents via email in about 3-4 days maximum.
Who Can Apply for the Egypt e-Visa?
For everyone traveling to Egypt, their nationality is a vital criterion. Thus, before planning you must always check your eligibility for an e-visa to Egypt. The travelers applying for an e-visa should follow these requirements:
Visa types: Anyone applying for an e-visa should apply for a tourist or a business visa. You do not have any other options.
Stay duration: Those visiting the nation can only stay there for 30 days. Your trip has to be short and cannot exceed their visas as it may have severe consequences.
Valid payment methods: You should also have a valid debit, or credit card with the funds necessary for their stay. There needs to be a valid email ID that will be used by the authorities to send you the approved visa.
Accurate documentation: Make sure to not miss out on any document that is required to be submitted along with the online form for the eVisa application. These documents include your passport, bank statements, accommodation proof, and others.
Additional proof: Those who require a business visa must submit additional proof that speaks in favor of them having to attend business meetings or conferences. This can include an invitation letter, a cover letter, or other relevant documents.
It is also essential to note that both visas will only be valid for those who meet the crucial eligibility criteria. Apart from these, you should also be aware of any other requirements that are unique to your type of visa and purpose of visit. This way, your trip will be free from obstacles and hassles.
Key Differences Between Egypt Visa on Arrival and e-Visa
There are various key differences between an e-visa and an Egypt entry visa on arrival. Take note of the following key points that distinguish between the two:
Processing Time and Level of Convenience
When it comes to assessing their processing times, while it will take about 3-4 days for an e-visa to arrive, an Egypt entry visa on arrival is processed almost instantly. However, to get your visas after having arrived at the airport, you will need to stand in long queues and wait for a longer time, whereas you can acquire your e-visas from the comfort of your home, which makes it more convenient.
Requirements and Documentation for Both Options
The process of acquiring an Egyptian visa is quite convenient and straightforward. But for a smooth approval procedure, correct submission of the forms is necessary.
- A passport from an eligible country with at least six months validity
- Your passport should also have two empty pages for immigration stamps
- A recent passport-size photo of yourself for the passport.
- A valid email ID where the eVisa will be mailed to you
- Your lodging information and travel schedule along with a proof of it.
- Your business-related documents in case of a business visa.
- You can pay the visa processing charges using a debit or a credit card.
- A travel insurance(although not mandatory)
For more clarity on which nations qualify for an Egypt tourist visa, you can simply check out the list of countries on the e-visa websites. Check this thoroughly before applying for an Egypt e-visa.
An Egypt Visa on Arrival or an eVisa: Making the Right Choice
Now that you have studied and compared the types, there comes the final question of which one will be the best choice for you! Well, you should get the one that seems more feasible. However, getting your visas online is always a better option, as you will not have to go through any of the hassles of getting your visas after you have arrived.
You can apply for an e-visa calmly online, where all your documents will be digitally uploaded and kept safely. You will not have to carry all your original documents and wait till the last moment to have them verified and approved.
Unlock Your Trip To The Land of Cleopatra!
No matter your option, make sure you choose the one that fits you the best! As for an online visa, simply visit the site to learn more and get your visa in not more than 3-4 days. So what are you waiting for?
Check your eligibility for Online Egypt Visa and apply for Egypt e-Visa 5 (five) days in advance of your flight. Citizens of many countries including German Citizens, Danish citizens, Hungarian citizens, Russian citizens and Portuguese citizens can apply online for Egypt e-Visa.