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Which nationalities are eligible to enter Egypt with just an identity card?

Although a visa is required to enter Egypt, some nationalities can travel with an identity card. The online e-Visa procedure is still recommended, but the possibility of obtaining a visa on arrival may also be considered.

According to official information, only a limited number of countries are authorised to enter Egypt using only their national identity card. Here are the details:

Eligible nationalities

Nationals of the following countries can enter Egypt with their national identity card:

  • France
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • Italy
  • Portugal

Important conditions

Although these nationalities can use their identity cards, there are a number of conditions to be met:

  • Card validity : The identity card must be valid for at least 6 months after the planned date of return from the trip.
  • Additional photos : It is essential to have two extra passport photos with you for the visa.
  • Cardboard document : On arrival in Egypt, travellers are given a card with the visa on one side and their personal details on the other.
  • Checking information : It is vital to check that the official spells the surname and first name correctly and gives the full ID card number on the card.
  • e-Visa required : Although entry is possible with an identity card, an e-Visa is still required.

Recommendations

  • Preference for e-Visa : The Egyptian authorities strongly recommend using the e-Visa before arriving in Egypt, as this avoids waiting times and limits exchanges with the immigration authorities.
  • Extended validity : For French, German, Belgian, Italian and Portuguese citizens, the identity card must be valid for at least 8 months after arrival in Egypt.
  • Passport photo : A recent colour passport photo must be presented on arrival in Egypt.
  • Beware of extended cards: Egypt does not recognise the automatic 5-year extension of expired French national identity cards that are still valid in France and certain other countries.

Entry to Egypt with a national identity card is possible for certain nationalities under specific conditions. It is essential to follow these recommendations to avoid any problems on arrival and ensure a smooth journey.