Starting Oct. 1, eVisa or Visa-on-Arrival Option to be Discontinued for Canadians Entering Egypt

Canadian travelers will no longer have the option to obtain Egypt eVisa or visas on arrival in Egypt, as new restrictions have been introduced by the Egyptian authorities. Starting October 1, 2023, significant changes will impact Canadian passport holders who wish to travel to Egypt.

These changes have been detailed by both the Government of Canada and Egyptian authorities, affecting entry requirements, visas, and travel recommendations.

Getting an Egyptian Online Visa for Canadians

• Current e-Visa Availability: Canadians have been able to apply for Egyptian online visa until now.

• Application Convenience: You can do this from your computer, no need to visit an embassy.

• Last Chance: Canadians can still apply for this online visa up to October 1st.

• Visa Validity: If you get your visa, it will last for 3 months, even if that period goes past October 1st.

• Recommendation: If you're a Canadian planning to visit Egypt in the next 3 months, it's a good idea to apply for the online visa as soon as you can, before the October 1st cut-off.

Please Note: If you got an e-Visa for Egypt before October 1, 2023, you can still use it to go into Egypt until it runs out, even after October 1, 2023.

New Visa Restrictions Imposed

According to an official statement from the Government of Canada, Canadian passport holders will lose the privilege of obtaining visas upon arrival in Egypt. The new regulation, effective from October 1, 2023, states that Canadian travelers must acquire their visas from an Egyptian embassy or consulate located abroad before embarking on their journey to Egypt.

This means that the previous convenience of obtaining visas online or upon arrival will no longer be available to Canadians.

Impact on Canadian Travelers

Previously, Canadian travelers had the option to secure their visas upon arrival at the Cairo airport or obtain e-visas before departing through the online portal.

However, the new changes mean that Canadian passport holders will have to plan ahead and apply for their visas in advance at an Egyptian embassy or consulate, adding an extra step to their travel preparations.

Response to Canadian Measures

The Egyptian authorities' decision to implement these changes comes as a response to measures taken by the Canadian government, which denied visas to citizens of Egypt. This reciprocal action has been described as "offensive in nature to the dignity of the Egyptian state."

Challenges and Concerns

These new rules are expected to create challenges and inconveniences for travelers from both countries. The President of the Egyptian Canadian Business Network, Adel Boulos, has expressed concerns about the difficulties faced by Egyptian citizens seeking visas to visit Canada. He cited cases of families wanting to visit their loved ones, individuals getting married, and more, all facing obstacles due to visa restrictions.

Travel Advisory from Canada

The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for those planning to visit Egypt. The advisory advises travelers to exercise a high degree of caution due to the unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism in the country.

It also specifically warns against travel to certain areas, including the Governate of North Sinai, the border with Libya, and the Western Desert, citing the presence of armed groups, terrorist activities, and ongoing military operations.

Entry and Exit Requirements

As part of the new Egypt entry and exit requirements, the following key points are highlighted:

• Visa Application: Starting October 1, 2023, Canadian passport holders must obtain an Egyptian visa from an embassy or consulate abroad. Traveling with an electronic visa obtained before October 1, 2023, will be considered valid.  you can still use it to go into Egypt until it runs out, even after October 1, 2023.
• Verification: Travelers planning to visit Egypt are advised to contact the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate to obtain the latest and most accurate information regarding entry requirements.
• Passport Validity: Canadian passport holders are required to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their expected departure date from Egypt.
• Official and Special Passports: Different entry rules may apply for holders of official or special passports.
• Gender Identifier: While Canada issues passports with an "X" gender identifier, travelers are cautioned that not all countries recognize this identifier. Entry restrictions might apply in such cases.
• Other Travel Documents: Different entry rules may also apply when traveling with temporary or emergency travel documents.

Visa Categories and Extension

Several visa categories are mentioned, including tourist, business, and student visas. Tourist visas were previously obtainable upon arrival until September 30, 2023. However, as of October 1, 2023, tourists must obtain a visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before departure. The Embassy of Canada also advises that those wishing to extend their stay in Egypt should address the Immigration Authority of Egypt.

Entry and Exit Stamps

Proof of entry is required when leaving Egypt. Failure to provide this proof can result in denied exit. Travelers who obtain new passports while in Egypt must have their entry stamp transferred to the new passport by the Egyptian Immigration Authority. The same applies to newborns and dual citizens.

Medication and Health Requirements

Travelers with medication should be aware that Egyptian authorities consider certain prescription and over-the-counter medications as controlled substances. Regulations include carrying the original prescription, ensuring medication is in its original packaging, and not carrying more than a 3-month supply.

Yellow Fever and Health Precautions

Entry requirements related to yellow fever and immunizations may apply. It is recommended to verify these requirements with the Egyptian Embassy prior to travel.

Conclusion

Effective from October 1, 2023, Canadian travelers planning to visit Egypt will no longer have the option of obtaining visas upon arrival. Instead, they must obtain visas from Egyptian embassies or consulates abroad before their journey. These changes have been implemented in response to reciprocal measures taken by Canada and may pose challenges for travelers from both countries. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest entry requirements, travel advisories, and health regulations before planning their trip to Egypt.