For Swiss travelers, the call of the Nile is stronger than ever. Whether you are planning to wander through the ancient Valley of the Kings, dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, or conduct high-level business in Cairo’s growing financial districts, Egypt offers a unique blend of history and opportunity.
However, before you board your flight from Zurich or Geneva, ensuring you have the correct travel documentation is paramount. This guide provides a detailed look at the Egypt Visa for Swiss Nationals, explaining how the Egypt Visa Online system simplifies your journey.
Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?
Yes, Swiss passport holders are required to obtain a visa to enter Egypt. While “visa on arrival” is still technically an option at certain entry points, it often involves long queues and the stress of manual paperwork.
The preferred method for modern travelers is the Egypt Visa Online (e-Visa). This official electronic authorization is linked directly to your passport and allows you to clear immigration much faster upon arrival.
Key Requirements for the Egypt Visa for Swiss Nationals
To ensure your application is successful, Swiss citizens should have the following documents ready:
- Valid Passport: Your Swiss passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the date you arrive in Egypt.
- Digital Passport Scan: You will need a clear, high-resolution scan of the bio-data page (the page with your photo and details).
- Travel Itinerary: You should be prepared to provide details of your first night’s accommodation (hotel name or host address).
- Payment Method: A credit or debit card is required to pay the government processing fee online.
How to Apply Using the Egypt Visa Online Portal
The application process is designed to be user-friendly and can be completed in just a few minutes:
- Submit Your Details: Enter your personal information, passport number, and travel dates exactly as they appear on your documents.
- Upload Documents: Attach the digital scan of your passport.
- Payment: Pay the fee (approximately $25 USD for single entry or $60 USD for multiple entry).
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, the visa is sent to your email as a PDF.
Important: You must print a hard copy of your e-Visa. Immigration officers in Egypt require a physical document to stamp during your entry process.
Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry: Which Should You Choose?
Swiss travelers have two primary options when applying for an Egypt Visa Online:
- Single-Entry Visa: This is perfect for a standard holiday. it is valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows one stay of up to 30 days.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: If you plan on visiting a neighboring country like Jordan or Saudi Arabia and then returning to Egypt, choose this option. It is valid for six months and allows for unlimited entries, with each stay capped at 30 days.
Business Travel for Swiss Professionals
If your visit is for commercial purposes—such as attending a trade fair in Alexandria or meeting with local partners—the Egypt Visa Online system also supports business categories. While the online process remains the same, business travelers should carry a letter of invitation from their Egyptian host or a letter of support from their Swiss employer to present at the border if requested.
Final Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Apply Early: We recommend submitting your application at least 7 days before your departure.
- Check Entry Ports: The e-Visa is accepted at all major international airports, including Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.
- Sinai-Only Option: If you are staying exclusively in the Sinai resorts (like Sharm el-Sheikh) for less than 15 days, you may qualify for a free entry stamp, but this does not allow travel to mainland Egypt (the Pyramids or Luxor).
By securing your Egypt Visa for Swiss Nationals in advance, you can step off the plane with confidence and begin your Egyptian adventure immediately.
