Egypt Visa for South African Citizens

For South African passport holders, the allure of Egypt is undeniable. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the bustling markets of Cairo to the pristine diving spots in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, Egypt offers a travel experience like no other.

Gone are the days of queuing at embassies. With the introduction of the Egypt eVisa from South Africa to the land of the Pharaohs has become smoother and more efficient. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from requirements and costs to processing times and expert tips—ensuring your journey starts without a hitch.

Do South African Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?

Yes, South African citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter Egypt.

While there have been changes in visa regulations over the years, the current system allows South Africans to obtain their visa in two main ways: Visa on Arrival or the Egypt eVisa (Electronic Visa). The eVisa is widely recommended for South African travelers as it secures your entry permission before you depart O.R. Tambo or Cape Town International Airport, avoiding potential delays or issues upon landing.

Egypt eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival: What is Best for South Africans?

This is a common dilemma. While South Africans can currently obtain a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports, the online option offers distinct advantages:

• Egypt eVisa: You apply online days or weeks ahead. You pay securely in your preferred currency (often easier than carrying exact USD cash). You breeze through immigration with your pre-approved document. Verdict: Safest & Most Convenient.
• Visa on Arrival: You must queue at a bank kiosk in the airport arrival hall before immigration. You usually need to pay $25 USD in cash (ZAR is rarely accepted). If your flight arrives late or several flights land at once, queues can be long.

Egypt eVisa Requirements for South African Citizens

The Egypt E-Visa requirements are straightforward, but accuracy is key. You will need:

1. Valid South African Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date in Egypt.
2. Digital Passport Scan: A clear, color scan of the biographical page (where your photo and details are).
3. Email Address: This is where your approved visa PDF will be sent.
4. Payment Method: A credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard) to pay the online fees.

Important Health Requirement: Yellow Fever Certificate

This is a crucial point for African travelers.

• Direct Travel: If you are flying directly from South Africa to Egypt, a Yellow Fever certificate is generally not required, as South Africa is not on the "infected" list for entry into Egypt.
• Transit: However, if you have a layover (usually more than 12 hours) in a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission (such as Ethiopia or Kenya), Egyptian authorities will require you to present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. Always carry your "Yellow Card" just in case if your route includes other African nations.

Passport Validity Rules for South Africans

Egyptian immigration is strict about passport validity. Your passport must not expire within 6 months of your entry date.

• Example: If you travel on December 1st, your passport must be valid until at least June 1st of the following year.
• Tip: If you have a temporary passport, check with the consulate, as eVisas typically require standard permanent passports.

Egypt eVisa Photo and Document Specifications

To avoid rejection, ensure your uploaded documents meet these standards:

• File Type: JPG or PNG.
• Clarity: No glare, flash reflections, or fingers covering the text.
• Details: The two lines of code at the bottom of the passport page (MRZ) must be fully visible and readable.
• Photo: No separate photo upload is usually needed if the passport scan is clear, but if requested, ensure it is a white background passport-style photo.

Is the Process Complicated?

• Government Website: It can be. Official forms often have unclear instructions, strict technical requirements for file uploads, and complex navigation that can be frustrating for non-tech-savvy users.
• evisa-to-egypt.info: No. We use a simplified, user-friendly form designed to be completed in minutes. We handle the technical formatting of images and documents for you, ensuring they meet official standards without the headache.

Egypt eVisa Application for South African Citizens

1. Complete the Online Form: Enter details exactly as they appear on your ID page. Watch out for typos in your passport number.
2. Select Processing Time: Choose the speed that fits your travel date (Normal, Rush, or Super Rush).
3. Upload Passport Scan: Ensure high resolution.
4. Make Payment: Pay the service and government fees securely.
5. Print Your Visa: Once approved (sent via email), print two copies to carry with you.

Egypt eVisa Fees for South African Citizens

When applying through a streamlined visa service, the total cost consists of the government levy and the service charge for the processing team.

Total Fee = Government Fee + Processing Fee (+ Rush Options)

1. Government Fee: The standard fee charged by the Egyptian Government.
2. Processing Fee: Covers the manual review of your application to prevent errors, 24/7 support, and photo adjustment.

Note on Currency: While the base Egypt Visa fees are in USD, you can usually pay in your local currency equivalent depending on the service provider's gateway.

Egypt eVisa Processing Times: When Should You Apply?

Planning ahead is vital. Based on standard processing tiers available for South Africans:

Normal Processing

• Timeline: 10 - 12 Working Days.
• Recommended For: Travelers booking months in advance who want the lowest service fee.

Rush Processing

• Timeline: 7 - 10 Working Days.
• Recommended For: Travelers with flights in about two weeks.

Super Rush Processing

• Timeline: 5 - 7 Working Days.
• Recommended For: Last-minute bookings or urgent trips.

Pro Tip: Never leave it the night before. Give yourself a buffer for weekends and holidays.

Egypt eVisa Validity and Stay Duration

• Visa Validity: Your eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. You must enter Egypt within this window.
• Allowed Stay: Once you enter, you can stay for up to 30 days.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

• Name Mismatch: Entering "Dave" instead of "David" if the passport says David.
• Blurry Images: Low-quality scans are the #1 reason for delays.
• Wrong Dates: Confusing Day/Month formats (DD/MM/YYYY vs MM/DD/YYYY).
• Transit Data: Failing to disclose if you are entering via a land border (e.g., Taba) vs. an airport.

Traveling with Minors

Every traveler, regardless of age, requires a visa.

• South African parents must ensure children have their own passports.
• If applying as a family, you can often submit a "group" application to link your files together.

Entry Tips for South African Travelers

1. Cash is King: While you paid for your visa online, carry some US Dollars or Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for tips and small purchases upon arrival.
2. Print It Out: Do not rely on showing the visa on your phone. Border officials often stamp the paper copy.
3. Hotel Details: Keep the address of your hotel handy; you will need to write it on the arrival card.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Is the Egypt visa free for South Africans?

Some official sources state that visas obtained physically at an embassy might be free for South Africans under specific agreements, but this process is time-consuming. The eVisa (online) and Visa on Arrival almost always incur the standard $25 USD government fee plus any service fees.

Can I use the eVisa for business?

The standard eVisa is for tourism. If you are attending a conference or business meeting, you can often use it, but for long-term work, you need a specific work permit or business visa from the embassy.

How long does the Egypt eVisa take for South Africans?

It typically takes between 5 to 12 working days, depending on whether you choose Normal, Rush, or Super Rush processing.

Do I need a transit visa if I stay in the airport?

If your transit is less than 6-12 hours (depending on the airline) and you do not leave the transit area, you generally do not need a visa. If you plan to leave the airport to see the Pyramids during a layover, you do need an eVisa or VoA.

Conclusion

For South African citizens, the Egypt eVisa is the key to unlocking a bucket-list adventure. By avoiding the uncertainty of airport queues and the hassle of embassy visits, you can focus on planning your Nile cruise or desert safari.

Remember to check your passport validity, apply at least 7 days in advance using the Rush or Super Rush options if needed, and travel with peace of mind. Egypt awaits!