Egypt Visa RequirementsFor Switzerland passport holders
Swiss citizens obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for USD 25, valid for 30 days. Egypt is one of the world's most historically rich destinations, fully accessible for Swiss travelers.
Switzerland passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Egypt ports of entry.
Swiss citizens receive a visa on arrival (VoA) at major Egyptian international airports including Cairo (CAI), Hurghada (HRG), Sharm el-Sheikh (SSH), and Luxor (LXR). Fee: USD 25 (cash only, USD bills preferred; some counters accept EUR). The VoA grants a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. Have exact change or small USD bills ready. Alternatively, apply for an e-Visa before travel at visa2egypt.gov.eg for the same fee.
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
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Travel Insurance Recommended
Medical travel insurance is strongly recommended; Egypt does not have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Switzerland. Some insurers include Egypt coverage as standard.
Required at Entry
Valid Swiss Passport
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Egypt. Ensure you have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
USD 25 Cash Fee
The visa-on-arrival fee is USD 25. Bring exact change in USD bills; some counters may accept EUR at an unfavorable rate. Payment at dedicated VoA window before passport control.
Proof of Onward Travel
A printed or digital copy of your return or onward flight ticket. Immigration officers may request this at the VoA desk.
Accommodation Details Recommended
Hotel confirmation or host contact details for your stay in Egypt. May be requested at the VoA counter.
Passport Photo Recommended
Not required at the VoA desk in most cases but helpful to carry one in case of any on-arrival visa form requirements.
Current Travel Situation
Switzerland to Egypt: What You Need to Know
Egypt and Switzerland maintain friendly bilateral relations, with Switzerland hosting Egyptian diplomatic missions in Geneva at various UN bodies. Egypt is a popular destination for Swiss travelers seeking ancient history (Pyramids, Luxor, Abu Simbel), Red Sea diving (Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada), and the unique culture of Cairo. Switzerland is also a significant partner for Egypt in development cooperation through Swiss embassies and NGOs. The visa-on-arrival policy is part of Egypt's strategy to boost tourism revenues.
How to Get There
Fly ZRH or GVA to CAI (Cairo) in about 4 hours with Swiss, EgyptAir, or Easyjet. Direct flights also serve HRG (Hurghada) and SSH (Sharm el-Sheikh) from Swiss airports in summer with charter carriers. Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan are a classic way to experience Upper Egypt.
Money & Banking
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). USD and EUR are widely accepted in tourist areas and for tips. ATMs are available in cities and resorts but may be unreliable in smaller towns; carry sufficient cash. Egypt is very affordable; budget EGP 500-1200 (EUR 15-38) per day.
Practical Tips
The e-Visa option (visa2egypt.gov.eg) is highly recommended; it lets you bypass the VoA queue and go straight to passport control. Keep USD cash for the VoA just in case. Bargaining is expected at markets; agree on taxi fares before entering. Egyptian sun is intense; carry SPF 50 and stay hydrated. Respect dress codes at mosques and historic religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swiss citizens need to apply in advance for an Egypt visa?
No. Swiss citizens get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for USD 25. Alternatively, apply online in advance at visa2egypt.gov.eg for the same fee and faster airport processing.
How long does the Egypt visa on arrival allow me to stay?
The VoA grants a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. Extensions can be obtained at Egyptian immigration offices for an additional period.
What currency does Egypt use?
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). USD and EUR are widely accepted in tourist areas and for tipping. ATMs are available in cities and resorts but can be unreliable in smaller towns.
Is Egypt safe for Swiss tourists?
Tourist areas (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh) are generally safe and well-patrolled. Avoid the Sinai Peninsula (except Sharm, if the FDFA advisory permits) and the Egyptian-Libyan border region. Check Swiss FDFA travel advice before departure.
What are the must-see sights in Egypt?
The Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo (Tutankhamun's treasures), the Karnak Temple complex at Luxor, Abu Simbel temples, and the Red Sea coast for diving.
Is a Nile cruise worth doing?
A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan (3-7 nights) is one of the world's great travel experiences. It passes Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Esna temples with expert guide narration. Dahabiya (traditional sailing boat) cruises are the most atmospheric option.