Egypt Visa RequirementsFor Russia passport holders
Russian citizens can obtain an Egyptian eVisa online before travel, making Egypt one of the most accessible and popular destinations for Russian passport holders. The eVisa costs $25 and is typically processed within 72 hours.
Russia passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Egypt.
Apply for an Egyptian eVisa at the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg. The fee is $25 per applicant, payable by credit or debit card online. You will need a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a digital passport photo meeting specific requirements, and a hotel booking or invitation letter. Processing time is typically 48 to 72 hours, and the eVisa is sent to your email as a PDF to print and carry. The eVisa grants a single entry for a stay of up to 30 days. Alternatively, a visa on arrival is available at Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh international airports for $25 cash (USD), though queues can be long.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Russia to Egypt: What You Need to Know
Egypt maintains strong bilateral relations with Russia and has deliberately kept its borders accessible to Russian travelers even after many Western countries imposed sanctions on Russia in 2022. Egypt is not a member of the EU or any Western sanctions coalition and has positioned itself as a neutral country in the conflict. Tourism from Russia to Egypt, particularly to Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, remains substantial. The eVisa system launched in 2019 provides a straightforward online process that does not require visiting an embassy. Egypt also offers visas on arrival at major airports, though the online eVisa is recommended for a smoother entry experience.
Practical Tips
Use the official government portal visa2egypt.gov.eg rather than third-party sites that charge extra fees for the same service. Print your eVisa approval and carry it alongside your passport, as immigration officers will check the physical copy. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can extend your visa at the Mogamma building in Cairo or through local travel agencies in resort towns. Be aware of current Russian charter flight availability, as the schedule to Egyptian resorts varies seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Russian citizens get an Egyptian eVisa online?
Yes. Russian passport holders can apply for an Egyptian eVisa through the official portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg. The eVisa costs $25, is valid for a single entry stay of up to 30 days, and is typically processed within 48 to 72 hours. This is the recommended option for advance planning.
Is a visa on arrival available for Russians entering Egypt?
Yes. Russian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport, Hurghada International Airport, Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport, and other major Egyptian entry points. The fee is $25 USD (cash only, USD preferred). However, queues at visa on arrival counters can be long during peak season, so the advance eVisa is recommended.
Are there any restrictions on Russian travelers visiting Egypt due to sanctions?
No. Egypt has not imposed any restrictions on Russian travelers and has remained neutral on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Egypt has no sanctions against Russian nationals, continues normal diplomatic relations with Russia, and remains one of the most popular and easily accessible destinations for Russian tourists, particularly for Red Sea resort holidays in Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh.
Can I extend my Egyptian visa if I want to stay longer than 30 days?
Yes. You can extend your Egyptian visa at the Mogamma administrative building in Tahrir Square, Cairo, or at local immigration offices in resort cities. Extensions are typically granted for an additional 30 days. Local travel agencies in resort towns such as Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh can also assist with the extension process for a service fee.