Egypt Visa RequirementsFor Iran passport holders

Despite Egypt offering a widely available visa on arrival to travelers from many countries, this facility does NOT apply to Iranian passport holders. Iranians must obtain an Egyptian visa in advance through the Egyptian Embassy in Tehran or another Egyptian diplomatic mission.

Egypt and Iran had a significant diplomatic rupture that lasted over four decades, with relations only formally normalized in 2023. While this normalization has improved the broader diplomatic picture, the practical visa situation for individual Iranian travelers remains more complex than for visitors from many other countries. Organized group tours to Egypt may have separate arrangements and a smoother visa process than individual travelers.

Egypt is nonetheless a meaningful destination for Iranian tourists interested in the Pyramids, Nile Valley, Luxor temples, and Red Sea resorts at Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Iranians planning to visit Egypt should contact the Egyptian Embassy in Tehran well in advance to confirm current visa procedures, as requirements and processing times can vary.

Carry USD cash for the visa fee, as some counters may not reliably accept cards or other currencies. The Egyptian Pound has experienced significant depreciation in recent years, so exchanging money at official exchange offices or banks upon arrival offers better rates than airport exchange counters. Egypt's Red Sea resorts (Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh) are very popular with Iranian tourists and many hotels and tour operators are familiar with Iranian guests. Dress conservatively outside beach resorts, particularly in Cairo and Upper Egypt. Drink only bottled water.