Egypt Visa for Switzerland Citizens

For Swiss citizens looking to escape the winter snow for the golden sands of Hurghada or the ancient wonders of Luxor, Egypt is a premier holiday destination. Whether flying from Zurich, Geneva, or Basel, the journey to the land of the Pharaohs is easier than ever thanks to digital travel authorizations.

However, navigating entry requirements can be tricky. Common search queries like "Egypt visa for Swiss citizens" and "enter Egypt with Swiss ID card" show that travelers need clear answers.

This comprehensive guide covers everything regarding the Egypt eVisa for Switzerland citizens, including requirements, costs (in USD/CHF context), processing times, and expert tips for a hassle-free trip.

Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt in 2025?

Yes, Swiss citizens require a visa to enter Egypt.

Even though Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area and EFTA, there is no visa-free agreement for general tourism to Egypt. Whether you are visiting for a diving trip in Sharm El Sheikh or a cultural tour of Cairo, you must obtain valid entry authorization.

You generally have two main options:

1. Egypt eVisa (Electronic Visa): Applied for online before you travel.
2. Visa on Arrival: Purchased at the airport upon landing.

Is It Better to Choose the Egypt eVisa or Visa on Arrival?

This is the most frequently asked question. While Swiss travelers can get an Egypt visa on arrival, the Egypt eVisa is widely recommended by travel experts for several reasons:

• Egypt eVisa (Recommended): You apply from the comfort of your home in Switzerland. You pay securely online (avoiding the need for cash currency exchange at the airport) and arrive with your entry guaranteed. You can head straight to the passport control line.
• Visa on Arrival: You must queue at a bank kiosk in the arrival hall before immigration to buy a visa sticker. You typically need to pay $25 USD (or the equivalent in Euros/CHF, though exchange rates at the border can be unfavorable). If you land at a busy time, queues can be long and chaotic.

Can Swiss Citizens Enter Egypt with a National ID Card?

This is a specific query for Swiss and EU travelers: "Can I travel to Egypt with my Swiss ID?"

The answer is nuanced:

• For Visa on Arrival: Yes, Egyptian authorities generally allow Swiss citizens to enter using a valid National ID Card. However, you must bring two passport-sized photos to attach to a special immigration card upon arrival. If you forget the photos, you may face difficulties.
• For the eVisa: No. To apply for the Egypt eVisa online, you must use a valid Passport. The online system requires a passport number and expiration date. You cannot apply for the eVisa with an ID card number.

Expert Tip: To avoid the hassle of carrying extra photos or risking delays, we strongly recommend traveling with a Passport and an eVisa.

What Are the Egypt eVisa Requirements for Swiss Citizens?

To successfully apply for Egypt Tourist Visa online, you need to meet a few simple requirements:

1. Valid Passport: Your Swiss passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in Egypt.
2. Digital Copy: A high-quality scan of the passport information page (JPG or PNG).
3. Email Address: To receive the approved visa PDF.
4. Payment Method: A credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) to pay the fees.

Does My Swiss Passport Really Need 6 Months Validity?

Yes. This is a strict rule enforced by Egyptian immigration.

If your passport expires in less than 6 months from the day you enter Egypt, you will likely be denied boarding at Zurich or Geneva airport.

• Example: If you travel on November 1st, your passport must be valid until at least May 1st of the following year.

Processing Time for Egypt Visa from Switzerland

How long does it take? It depends on the processing speed you select during the application. Based on standard timelines:

• Normal Processing: Takes 10 - 12 Working Days. Best for travelers planning their holiday well in advance.
• Rush Processing: Takes 7 - 10 Working Days. Ideal if your trip is about two weeks away.
• Super Rush Processing: Takes 5 - 7 Working Days. Essential for last-minute bookings.

Tip: Apply at least 7 days in advance to account for weekends or public holidays in Egypt or Switzerland.

How Do I Apply for the Egypt eVisa from Switzerland?

The process is 100% digital:

1. Fill Out the Application: Enter your personal details (Name, Passport Number, Birth Date) exactly as they appear on your passport.
2. Select Visa Type: Choose Single Entry or Multiple Entry.
3. Upload Documents: Attach the clear scan of your passport bio page.
4. Pay Securely: Use your credit or debit card.
5. Receive & Print: Once approved (sent via email), print 1-2 physical copies.

Can I Change My Details After Clicking "Submit"?

• Government Website: No. Once you submit the form, it is final. If you realize later that you entered the wrong passport number, you cannot edit it—you must apply and pay again.
• evisa-to-egypt.info: Yes, we offer a safety window. Because we review your application before final submission to the government, we can often catch and correct errors. If you notice a mistake shortly after applying with us, we can fix it for you before it becomes a permanent problem.

Should I Choose Single Entry or Multiple Entry?

• Single Entry: Valid for 90 days, allowing one entry for a stay of up to 30 days. Perfect for a standard one-week or two-week holiday.
• Multiple Entry: Valid for 6 months, allowing unlimited entries (max 30 days per stay). Choose this if you plan to visit Egypt, travel to a neighboring country (like Jordan or Saudi Arabia), and then return to Egypt.

Do I Need a Transit Visa for Egypt from Switzerland?

If you are flying from Zurich or Geneva and have a layover in Cairo, you might wonder if you need a visa.

• Transit less than 6-48 hours: If your transit time is short and you do not leave the airport transit area, you generally do not need a visa.
• Leaving the Airport: If you have a long layover (e.g., 10+ hours) and want to leave the airport to see the Pyramids or stay at a hotel, you must obtain a visa (either an eVisa in advance or a Visa on Arrival).
• Note: Always check with your airline, as specific transit rules can vary based on your final destination.

Can I Convert My Tourist Visa to a Work or Student Visa?

A common question for those who fall in love with Egypt is: "Can I convert my tourist visa to a resident visa?"

• Strict Rules: You cannot convert a standard Tourist eVisa into a Work or Student visa while you are inside Egypt. The eVisa is strictly for tourism.
• The Process: To obtain a work or student residency, you typically need to leave the country and apply for the correct visa type at an Egyptian Embassy (such as the one in Bern), or follow complex procedures at the Mogamma complex in Cairo which often involves exiting and re-entering the country.

Do Swiss Children Need a Visa for Egypt?

Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age (including infants), requires a visa.

• If your child has their own passport, submit a separate application.
• If they are registered on a parent's passport, ensure this is noted in the application form.
• Search Intent: Parents often search "Egypt visa for minors Switzerland."

What Should Swiss Travelers Know When Arriving in Egypt?

1. Print Your Visa: Do not rely on showing the PDF on your smartphone. Egyptian border agents prefer stamping a physical paper.
2. Cash is King: While you paid for the visa online, bring some cash (USD, Euros, or Egyptian Pounds) for tips and small purchases.
3. Hotel Details: Have your hotel booking confirmation ready or the address written down, as you will need it for the arrival card.

FAQ: People Also Ask

Can I get a visa on arrival if I fly from Geneva?

Yes, flights from Geneva or Zurich arriving in Cairo, Hurghada, or Sharm El Sheikh allow passengers to purchase a Visa on Arrival. However, the eVisa is faster and more secure.

Is the Egypt eVisa valid for business?

The standard eVisa is for tourism. If you are attending a conference, you may be able to use it, but for active employment or long-term business, you should contact the Egyptian Embassy in Bern.

Can I visit Sinai resorts without a visa?

If you fly directly to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, or Taba and stay for less than 15 days, you might be eligible for a free "Sinai Only" stamp. However, this strictly prohibits you from leaving the Sinai Peninsula (e.g., you cannot visit Cairo or Luxor). If you plan to travel outside the resort, get the full visa.

Conclusion: Start Your Egyptian Adventure

Applying for an Egypt eVisa for Switzerland citizens is the smartest way to start your holiday. It removes the uncertainty of airport queues and gives you peace of mind before you even leave home.

Check your passport validity, choose the Rush or Super Rush option if your trip is soon, and get ready to explore the Pyramids!