For your next holiday, you're planning a trip to Egypt. But you're not used to travelling abroad, so you're asking yourself a number of questions, particularly of an administrative nature. One of the most recurrent is: is it possible to travel to Egypt using a simple identity card? We've got the answers.
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Many countries around the world require their nationals to present the following documents a valid passport (at least six months after the date of return to France) to welcome them on their territory. Some countries are a little less restrictive when it comes to administrative matters. Egypt is one of them. However, this is a rather special case. You can leave peacefully with your identity card up to date.
⚠️ Please note that the additional 5 years of validity for French identity cards are not recognised in Egypt. Make sure you are in order by having an identity card with the correct facial expiry date.
In this way, it is perfectly possible to arrive in Egypt and obtain a visa once you are there, simply by taking two passport photos with you and paying the customs fees in Egypt.
Please note that it is still advisable to travel with an up-to-date passport, even in Egypt. While it is possible to travel with just an identity card in some countries, make sure you find out beforehand, otherwise you may be refused entry.
Obtaining a classic visa in your passport for Egypt
It is strongly recommended that you obtain a visa before leaving for Egypt. There are two types of visa:
- the classic visa
- electronic visa
To apply for a traditional visa, reserved for nationalities not eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival, download the form from the official websiteFill it in, print it out and send it with all the supporting documents (photos, passport, etc) to the Egyptian consulate or embassy closest to your home. It takes approximately 40,00 € for this initiative.
To make obtaining a visa easier and quicker, you can also opt for the electronic visa or e-visa, which simplifies the process of issuing a visa on arrival and minimises waiting times and contacts. You should start the process around a few days before you leave for Egypt. All you need to do is fill in a form and provide the required documents. Once your application has been validated, your visa will be sent to you by e-mail. All you have to do is print it out and present it when you arrive in Egypt.
You can also delegate your procedures to a specialist agency or website. who will handle the application for you. All you need to do is provide your personal details and a copy of your passport, and the agency will take care of the rest. This will speed up your application and may even work in your favour with the Egyptian authorities.. The agency takes care of the entire visa application process. Once your application has been validated and approved, the agency sends you the visa by e-mail, again, and all you have to do is print it out. Don't forget to do this, as it is imperative that you present it as soon as you land in Egypt, otherwise you will be refused entry.
An agency service 