PM Madbouly: Egypt US$15 Visa Fee Decree Effective 2027

• Egypt will implement a new US$15 fee for entry and transit visas starting January 1, 2027.
• The fee can be paid in US dollars or its equivalent in other foreign currencies.
• This change was enacted via a decree issued by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.
• The Prime Minister's decree was officially published in the Egyptian Official Gazette.

Travelers planning to visit Egypt or transit through its borders will face a new financial requirement starting January 1, 2027.

Travelers planning to visit Egypt or transit through its borders will face a new financial requirement starting January 1, 2027. A decree has been issued mandating a US$15 fee for both entry and transit visas. This significant change means that individuals seeking to enter the country for tourism, business, or other purposes, as well as those merely passing through Egyptian territory, will incur this additional cost.

The implementation date in early 2027 provides a substantial lead time for individuals and organizations to adjust their travel budgets and compliance strategies. The new charge applies universally to all entry and transit visas, signaling a broad adjustment to Egypt's immigration fee structure. This update is a crucial piece of information for anyone involved in international travel planning or corporate mobility programs with destinations or routes involving Egypt.

The authority for this new visa fee stems directly from a decree issued by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. Such a directive from the Prime Minister's office carries significant legal weight within the Egyptian administrative framework, signifying a formal government policy change. The decree explicitly outlines the imposition of the US$15 fee, or its equivalent in other foreign currencies, for the specified visa categories.

Further solidifying its official status, the Prime Minister's decree was subsequently published in the Official Gazette. Publication in the Official Gazette is the standard procedure for formally announcing new laws, regulations, and governmental decisions in Egypt, making them legally binding and publicly accessible. This publication ensures that the new visa fee is a fully ratified and transparent regulatory amendment, providing clear notice to all affected parties well in advance of its effective date.

The new US$15 visa fee, or its equivalent in foreign currency, represents a direct cost increase for all international travelers requiring an entry or transit visa for Egypt. While the amount may seem modest on an individual basis, it can accumulate for frequent travelers or organizations managing large-scale corporate travel. Businesses and legal professionals advising clients on travel to Egypt or overseeing corporate travel policies must integrate this upcoming expense into their financial planning and budgeting processes.

Given the January 2027 effective date, there is ample opportunity to update internal guidelines and inform travelers about the impending change. Ensuring compliance with this updated Egyptian immigration law update will be essential to avoid any disruptions to travel plans once the fee comes into effect. Proactive communication and adjustment of travel compliance changes are advisable to accommodate this new financial requirement for all relevant stakeholders.

Lawyers advising clients on travel to Egypt or managing corporate travel policies should note this upcoming cost increase to update budgets and advise on compliance well in advance of the January 2027 effective date.

Source: Original reporting via Egypt Independent