April 27th, 2025 at 06:01 am

Visit Egypt at No Cost: 96-Hour Transit Visa Extended Through April 2026

Egypt has extended its 96-hour free transit visa program through April 30, 2026. This initiative allows eligible travelers with layovers to explore the country without paying any visa fees. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, application, and conditions for this travel opportunity.

Overview: 96-Hour Free Transit Visa

The 96-hour free transit visa is a short-term entry permit granted to international travelers transiting through Egypt. It allows visitors with layovers of 8 to 96 hours to exit the airport and visit iconic sites like Cairo, Luxor, and the Red Sea resorts. Unlike a standard tourist visa, which costs $25, this visa is completely free.

Who Qualifies for the Free Transit Visa?

To qualify for the 96-hour free transit visa, travelers must meet specific criteria:

• Transit Stop: You must transit through one of Egypt’s major international airports, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, or Borg El Arab.
• Eligible Airlines: The visa is available only to passengers flying with Egyptian carriers—EgyptAir, Air Cairo, or Nile Air. Both your arrival and departure flights must be with one of these airlines.
• Layover Duration: Your layover must last between 8 and 96 hours, providing plenty of time for exploration.
• Passport Validity: Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date into Egypt.
• Eligible Countries: This offer applies only to travelers from countries eligible for a visa on arrival or an emergency entry visa in Egypt. Currently, around 106 countries qualify, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations.

Important Note: Travelers from countries that do not qualify for a visa on arrival are not eligible for this transit visa.

Requirements for the 96-Hour Transit Visa

Before planning your adventure, ensure you meet these key conditions:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your entry date.
• Flight Ticket: Show proof of an onward ticket within the 96-hour window.
• Same Airline Use: Both your arrival and departure flights must be with EgyptAir, Air Cairo, or Nile Air.
• No Advance Application: The visa is issued upon arrival at the airport.

How to Obtain the Free Transit Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to get your 96-hour transit visa upon arrival:

• Upon Landing: Do not exit the airport immediately. Go to your airline’s transit visa desk or find an airline representative.
• Submit Required Documents: Present your passport and flight ticket. Fill out a simple form with your travel details.
• Verification and Approval: Airline staff will check your nationality and layover duration. If you qualify, they will issue your free 96-hour entry visa on the spot.
• Explore Egypt: Once approved, you can explore Egypt for up to four days before your next flight.

Why This Matters for Travelers

This visa initiative offers a fantastic opportunity for travelers flying between Asia, Africa, and Europe. You can visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, explore ancient temples, or relax by the Red Sea—all without paying visa fees.

Conclusion

Egypt’s extension of the 96-hour free transit visa until April 2026 benefits both tourists and the tourism industry. If you have a layover in Egypt, seize this chance to immerse yourself in its rich history and stunning landscapes, all without spending a dime on a visa.