U.S. Embassy Cairo

Consular Section
5 Tawfik Diab Street
Garden City, Cairo
Egypt
Telephone: +(20) 2-2797-3300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(20) 2-2797-3300
Fax: +(20) 2-2797-2472
Email: ConsularCairoACS@state.gov
Facebook

The American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit uses an online appointment system for those coming to the Embassy to receive routine consular services Sunday through Wednesday, except for official holidays (U.S. and Egyptian). U.S. citizens with non-emergency inquiries may contact the ACS Unit via the ACS Navigator. 

For emergencies during and after business hours, including on weekends and holidays, U.S. citizens can contact the ACS Unit via the Embassy switchboard at 02-2797-3300. The mailing address from the United States is: Consular Section, Unit 64900, Box 15, APO AE 09839-4900. Within Egypt or from a third country, it is 8 Kamal el-Din Salah Street, Garden City, Cairo, Egypt. Express mail services also use the physical address.

See the Department of State's Fact Sheet on Egypt for information on U.S.-Egypt Relations. 

Helpful resources

• Embassy of Egypt Visa Information
• Consulates General of Egypt in the U.S.
• Dual Nationality
• Prevention of International Child Abduction
• Customs Regulations

Passport and visas

U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Egypt:

• The Government of Egypt has launched a website for issuing e-visas. Many sites claim to offer e-visas, some at double the price. This is the only official source.  (U.S. citizens and the citizens of 44 other countries can apply for an e-visa before traveling.)
• You can get a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for approximately $25 in cash, in U.S. dollars. A multiple entry visa costs approximately $60. 
• U.S. citizens with visa issues, or arrival visa concerns, may apply for a visa at an Egyptian embassy or consulate before traveling. However, having a visa does not guarantee entry into Egypt.
• Egyptian immigration officials occasionally have denied entry to travelers without explanation.
• Work or study visas must be obtained before traveling.

U.S. citizens with a diplomatic or official passport must obtain an official visa in advance for work-related travel. 

Entry from Israel

U.S. citizens arriving from Israel at the Taba border crossing must obtain a visa ahead of time:

• Travelers without a visa can apply for a free, 14-day visa on arrival in Egypt. It is valid only in the Sinai Peninsula. They can also get a 30-day tourist visa for approximately $25, which allows travel throughout all of Egypt.
• To get the 30-day visa, travelers must submit a support letter from a travel agency. You can get this letter from travel agents at the border, but fees vary.

Gaza

Those seeking to leave Gaza should contact the US Embassy in Jerusalem. 

• Avoid travel to Gaza. The U.S. Embassy does not issue travel letters or help in crossing into Gaza.
• Travelers to Gaza from Egypt should read the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The Sinai Peninsula is very dangerous. The Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) often attacks security forces and civilians there.

Diplomatic and official passports

Diplomatic and official passport holders must have visas before arrival in Egypt for official business:

• If you do not, you may be denied entry. You must stay in the airport transit area at your own expense until you can leave Egypt.  The U.S. Embassy in Cairo cannot intervene in such situations.
• Please contact the Special Issuance Agency in Washington, DC for more information related to obtaining visas in your diplomatic or official U.S. passport.  
• Military personnel arriving on commercial flights must still meet passport and visa requirements.
• Diplomatic or official passport holders must use their personal passports for unofficial travel to Egypt and follow all regulations.
• The Egyptian Embassy in Washington currently requires at least 3 weeks, and sometimes longer, to process official and diplomatic visa requests, even with a Department of State expedite letter.
• All official travelers must submit their visa requests and passports to the Egyptian Embassy well before their trip.

Work permits

U.S. citizens who wish to work in Egypt must obtain work permits and business visas before arrival.

• You must get work permits through your employer. These allow you to live in the country.
• U.S. citizens in Egypt on tourist visas are not allowed to work. 

For additional information on entering Egypt, please contact the nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate.

Medical requirements

• U.S. citizens arriving from a yellow fever-infected area must show proof of vaccination.
• U.S. citizens have been arrested and convicted when entering Egypt with medical marijuana and CBD products even with a prescription.  
• If you plan to bring prescription medication into Egypt, be aware that not all medications that are legal in the U.S. are allowed. Keep your medicine in its original packaging and carry a letter from your doctor that notes:
  • The medication is for personal use.
  • The required dosage.
  • The condition you're being treated for.
  • The amount you're bringing.

The Ministry of Health will check your medication when you arrive.

Exit requirements

• Customs officials will review your entry visa stamp upon your departure. If you lose your passport with the entry stamp, you'll need to go to an Egyptian government office to get a stamp after receiving a new passport at the Embassy.
• If travelers try to leave Egypt after their visa expires, they may have to pay a fine at the airport. Arrive early with enough Egyptian currency to cover fines.
• U.S. citizen women married to Egyptians can leave Egypt without their spouse's permission. 
• A U.S. citizen leaving Egypt with a dual-national child (U.S.-Egyptian) may need to show proof of consent from the non-traveling Egyptian parent at the airport.
• The U.S. Embassy does not issue travel letters to exit Egypt.

Dual nationals

• If your entry visa has the note "Egyptian origin," you must show proof of Egyptian citizenship to leave. This also applies to dual nationals who stay in Egypt for more than 6 months.
• Male U.S. citizens with Egyptian nationality, ages 18-40, who have stayed in Egypt more than 180 days must finalize their military status according to Egyptian law before leaving. If not, they risk that immigration officials deny them departure. The U.S. government cannot help in these cases. 

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 

• For all emergencies in Egypt dial 123. 
• For the U.S. Embassy in Egypt dial +20-2-2797-3300 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). You may also report crimes to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt here.

Areas to avoid 

U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to these areas: 

• Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula: Terrorist attacks on security forces and civilians still occur but are becoming increasingly rare. The U.S. government can only provide limited emergency services. U.S. Government employees may only travel to Sharm-El-Sheikh and nearby areas along the Red Sea coast due to limited emergency infrastructure in Middle Sinai Peninsula.
• All Egyptian border areas: Under military control. Movement of non-military people and vehicles is restricted, and in some cases, prohibited.
• Parts of the Western Desert
• Libyan and Sudanese borders 

Be cautious and check the news if traveling to Southern Sinai, along the Red Sea.

• Sharm-El-Sheikh
• Dahab and Taba
• St. Catherine’s Monastery/Mt. Sinai

You should only travel to the Black Desert and White Desert with a licensed tour company.  Stay alert throughout the country due to the threat of terrorism.

Terrorism

Globally, terrorist groups and their supporters aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with methods such as knives, firearms, and vehicles.

Terrorists target crowds with little or no warning at:

• Religious sites (mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling there)
• Local government buildings, and diplomatic facilities (embassies)
• Tourist spots
• Transportation centers
• Shopping malls
• Restaurants and Western businesses 
• Resorts
• Urban areas

The Egyptian government has boosted security at tourist sites to address safety concerns. But challenges remain, and the threat of terrorism exists. 

How to stay safe

U.S. citizens must always be aware of their surroundings:

• Check local news and reports.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Keep a low profile.
• Carry copies of your passport and visa and a cellphone with service in Egypt.
• Save the U.S. Embassy’s phone number +20 2 2797-3300.
• It is illegal to photograph police stations, military barracks, and certain other sensitive public buildings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Egyptian borders

Travelers must get permission and a travel route from the Egyptian Military Intelligence and the Tourist Police to access: 

• Borders with Libya
• Borders with Sudan
• Borders with Israel
• Parts of the Sinai Peninsula off paved roads 

Arrangements must be made through a local or overseas travel agency. 

Landmines

There are World War II-era unexploded landmines in these areas:

• The Sinai Peninsula
• Mediterranean coast west of Alexandria
• Eastern Desert between Cairo and the Suez Canal

Pay attention to warning signs in these areas.

Crime

Crime levels in Cairo and Alexandria are moderate.

• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.
• Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt. It can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure, and unwanted physical contact.
• Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors in shops, at temples, and archaeological sites. Some will offer “free” gifts that lead to money demands. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations happen occasionally and are unpredictable.  They occur as a result of political or economic issues, on holidays, and during international events.

• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International scams 

Internet romance and financial scams are common in Egypt. Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help. 

How to avoid scammers:

Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to. Instead of helping, refer them to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We will work with local authorities to assist them. 

Common scams include: 

• Romance/online dating 
• Money transfers 

If using dating apps or websites: 

• Inform friends and family of your location. Meet in a busy public place. Avoid eating or drinking anything suspicious.  
• Set up a video call in the initial stages. 
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture. 
• Don't go to bars or nightclubs alone. 

Look for red flags such as:  

• People who say they live in a remote location. 
• Profiles that were recently created or seem too good to be true. 
• Receiving unwanted emails or letters.  
• The pace of the relationship is moving too quickly. 
• Requests for money. 

Visit the following website for more information on Protecting Yourself from Scams.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safety practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving. 
• Use reputable, U.S. based VPN/VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to unknown public Wi-Fi networks. 
• The Egyptian government does not allow visitors to enter with drones or satellite phones.  Any drone or satellite phones brought into Egypt will be taken by the Egyptian government and not returned.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

GPS apps 

Prior to using any GPS apps, research the route to make sure it’s safe. The shortest path may not be the safest.

Online maps and navigation apps may not be up to date with ongoing construction of highways and bridges, especially in major cities like Cairo.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. If you don’t report a crime before leaving Egypt, you won’t be able to seek prosecution later:

• For the U.S. Embassy dial +(20) 2-2797-3300.
• To report crimes to the local police dial 122 
• For Egypt’s Child Emergency Help line dial 16000.
• For Egypt’s National Council for Women dial 15115.
• For the Tourist Police to send complaints for investigation dial 126.

The Embassy cannot intervene in legal disputes.  The U.S. Department of State provides information. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Help you report a crime to the police.
• Contact family or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation.
• Provide a list of local attorneys (does not imply support).  
• Inform you of victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Issue an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. or limited financial support in cases of poverty.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Sexual assault

Victims of sexual assault may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.  However, local assistance and support are limited. Women who have been sexually assaulted may contact Egypt’s National Council for Women (NCW) here or:

• Dial 15115 or via WhatsApp: 01007525600.   

Victims will be referred to health, legal, psychosocial or shelter services. 

The NCW and the Ministry of Health and Population have established Safe Women Clinics across Egypt. These clinics offer medical assessments, referrals to specialized departments, and post-rape kits. The Embassy can help connect you with these resources.

Women who report sexual assault and domestic violence to local police in Egypt often have few options for help. In some cases, victims have even been accused of adultery or other crimes. 

Tourism

Tourism activities are widespread in Egypt.  

• There are safety and accessibility limitations at many tourism sites.   
• Private vendors may offer services that are not regulated.   
• Appropriate medical care is available only in or near major cities or tourist areas.   
• Urgent medical treatment options are limited.
• There have been multiple fatal accidents involving tourist boats along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, specifically boats used for overnight scuba-diving trips.

U.S. citizens should check overseas insurers. They should consider buying medical evacuation insurance for care and transport. 

Weather and Natural Disasters

Egypt experiences several weather events, including:

• Sandstorms: Common in spring. They reduce visibility and air quality, affecting daily life.
• Heatwaves: High temperatures, especially in the summer. They can reach extreme levels, sometimes exceeding 104 F.
• Flooding: Heavy rains, while rare, can lead to flash flooding in urban areas and near the Nile.
• Cold waves: In winter, the north may see unexpected cold spells. They can bring rain and low temperatures.
• Fog: Coastal areas may have dense winter fog, reducing visibility for travel.
• Drought: Low rainfall can cause drought, harming crops and water supply.

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break a law, even by mistake, you can be expelled, arrested, or jailed.  

• If you’re starting a business or a licensed profession, you must seek information from local authorities before operating.
• Egyptian police can stop, question, and detain people without cause. Not carrying proper ID, like a passport, may result in detention and questioning.
• Suspects can be held for months without charges. You may not have access to immediate legal counsel during criminal investigations.
• U.S. citizens have been detained for several days in non-criminal cases, including immigration issues.
• Local laws require permits for protests. Being near anti-government demonstrations can attract police attention, including searches of personal devices. U.S. citizens have been detained for posting content on social media seen as critical of Egypt or its allies.
• Punishments in Egypt often can be harsher than in the United States. For example, drug offenses carry severe penalties, including life in prison or the death penalty.

You may be prosecuted in the U.S. for crimes committed abroad regardless of local laws. 

For more information, read crimes against minors abroad and resources from the Department of Justice.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to inform the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Arrested individuals should avoid signing untranslated documents from the police that they do not understand.  

Dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens

Egyptian law considers dual U.S.-Egyptian nationals to be Egyptian citizens.

Egyptian authorities will not notify the Embassy if a dual national is detained. They will not provide information to the United States about the alleged crime. Additionally, consular officers must obtain authorization from Egyptian authorities to visit U.S. citizen detainees.

• Family members or friends can notify the ACS Unit at U.S. Embassy Cairo if the arrested U.S. citizen is unable to. 
• U.S. citizenship doesn’t protect you against detention or arrest by Egyptian authorities. You could face prolonged interrogations and detention.
• U.S. citizens arrested in Egypt can be deported, even without a conviction. 
• The Government of Egypt has asked detained U.S.-Egyptian citizens to give up their Egyptian citizenship to be deported to the U.S.

Currency

Bringing more than $10,000 into or out of Egypt is illegal. If you do, the extra money may be taken, and you could face other penalties. 

Egypt places limits on the quantity of gold that individuals may import into Egypt. 

Drones

Bringing any type of drone to Egypt, including small personal ones, is strictly prohibited. Violating this rule can lead to severe penalties. This includes the death penalty for using a drone to support terrorists.  Drones may be confiscated and not returned.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common but may be illegal according to local laws.  

• They may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You could get fined or forced to give your goods to the authorities if you try to bring them back into the U.S. 

The Truth Behind Counterfeits (source: U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection) 

Cultural property

Egyptian law is strict on antiquities. This includes historic coins, ceramics, and architectural elements. 

• It is illegal to remove antiquities from archaeological sites and other places in Egypt. 
• Intentional damage to antiquities, such as inscribing, painting, or attaching ads, is illegal. 
• The trade, sale, or export of antiquities is heavily regulated. 
• Travelers can be prosecuted for looting, damaging, showing disrespect at cultural or governmental sites, or smuggling antiquities out of Egypt. Buying antiquities is also illegal. Penalties include fines and/or imprisonment:

 Faith-based travelers

• Faith-Based Travel information
• International Religious Freedom Report— review country reports
• Human Rights Report— review country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

 
International volunteers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB travelers

LGB individuals face significant discrimination in Egypt. 

• Same-sex relationships are not illegal. But many report harassment and arrests, often by the police.
• Authorities have been known to use social media and dating apps to trap suspected LGB people for “debauchery,” a crime that can lead up to 10 years in prison. Police have also confiscated rainbow flags and detained their owners. 

LGB Travel Information  

Human Rights Report for Egypt (See section 6) 

Travelers with disabilities

Travelers with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation difficult.

• Most businesses and public places lack access for people with disabilities. Laws requiring access to transportation and communication aren't enforced.
• Sidewalks can be limited, uneven, and sometimes used by cars and motorcycles.
• Public transportation doesn’t have accommodations for the elderly or those with disabilities. Crosswalks are rare, and drivers have the right of way, so pedestrians should be very cautious.

Students

• Students Abroad Travel Tips
• FBI Travel Tips

Women travelers

Women traveling in Egypt may face unique health and security challenges: 

• Avoid traveling alone. 
• Exercise caution in crowds, on public transportation, in rural areas, and in isolated sections of temples and pyramids.  The Cairo metro has separate cars for women which may reduce the possibility of harassment.
• Groping has been reported in taxis and public places.
• Women traveling alone or with children may be stopped, questioned, or harassed by authorities for not traveling with a male companion.
• Egyptian men and women may need to show a marriage certificate to prove their relationship when checking into hotels.
• The Embassy receives reports of U.S. citizen women experiencing domestic violence, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, and rape in Egypt.

Some Egyptian NGOs support affected women. Victims may qualify for compensation, counseling, or relocation to the United States.

Find more information about the specific risks that women face in Egypt through the Country Security Report and our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Health resources

• Egypt Traveler Health Information 
• Medical Tourism information 
• Insurance Coverage Overseas 
• Egypt Health Information 
• List of Hospitals and Doctors in Egypt

Emergency numbers

For medical emergencies dial 123. 

Ambulance services 

Ambulances are rare, unreliable in most areas, and don’t have advanced medical equipment.  

• Ambulances and emergency crews often lack training.  
• Ambulance availability is improving. But Cairo traffic makes it hard to get them through.
• In an emergency, travelers may prefer to take a taxi or car to the hospital rather than an ambulance. 

We highly recommend that all travelers review the CDC’s Health Advice for Travelers to Egypt. 

Medical insurance

• The U.S. government including Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. 
• U.S. Medicare/Medicaid do not work abroad.
• Make sure your insurance plan works abroad. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides more information on types of insurance available.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad don’t accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Credit card payment is not always available. Most care providers abroad only accept cash. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Healthcare  

Emergency and intensive care facilities are limited. 

• Most Nile cruise boats don’t have a doctor, but some have a medical practitioner.
• Hospitals in Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm-El-Sheikh are good, but they are inadequate at most other ports-of-call. 
• Beaches on the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts are generally unpolluted. However, swimming in the Nile or its canals, walking barefoot in stagnant water, or drinking untreated water can expose people to bacteria and infections. They are also at risk of schistosomiasis (bilharzia).
• The Embassy cannot give medical advice or services. A list of hospitals and doctors in Egypt can be found on the Embassy website.

Prescriptions

You must carry prescription medications in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Egypt’s Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Egypt. 

Vaccinations

Travelers must be up to date on all recommended vaccinations, per CDC’s information. 

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Egypt.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Water quality and food safety 

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. 
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water.  
• Ice for drinks may be made from tap water.
• It is generally safe to eat freshly cooked food in hotels, on Nile cruise boats, and in popular restaurants. 
• When selecting a restaurant, choose a clean and well-known place. 
• Avoid all uncooked food including raw fruits and vegetables to avoid sickness.

Adventure travel

Learn more about Adventure Travel (source: CDC)

Traffic laws

Traffic laws in Egypt are not strictly enforced. But foreigners may face extra scrutiny. Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs could result in arrest or detainment.

Road conditions and safety

Driving in Egypt is extremely dangerous:

Egypt has one of the highest rates of road deaths in the world due to:

• Unmarked surfaces
• Pedestrians and animals crossing streets
• Speed bumps along major highways
• Sandstorms and fog 
• Vehicles without lights
• Vehicles without reflectors 

Driving in Cairo can be very challenging for foreigners used to strict traffic rules. Even locals must stay alert in chaotic streets. Impatient drivers often ignore traffic rules, which police rarely enforce. 

Most traffic lights in Cairo don’t work. Instead, police direct traffic using hand signals.  

Vehicle accidents are a major safety concern.

Consider using taxis or hired drivers instead of driving yourself. 

If you choose to drive: 

• Take extreme precautions and drive defensively. 
• At night, be ready for unlit vehicles, few road signals, and high-speed traffic. Watch for wrong-way drivers, pedestrians, and animals in the streets. 
• Be especially cautious during rare winter rains, which can create slippery roads and flooding.
• Egyptian drivers are not familiar with driving in wet conditions, making this even more dangerous.

Pedestrians should also be careful on busy streets, like Cairo’s Corniche and Alexandria’s Corniche along the Mediterranean.

Public transportation 

Public buses, Nile taxis, microbuses and trains are not safe. Train travel in Egypt has regular accidents involving mass casualties.  There have been multiple fatal accidents involving tourist boats along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, specifically boats used for scuba-diving trips.

Embassy employees transport

Due to security risks, U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from:

• Using buses, microbuses or trains (except the train from Cairo and Alexandria). 
• Traveling outside the greater Cairo and Alexandria areas by car. This is except for travel to beach resorts on the western side of the Red Sea and near Alexandria.
• Traveling via privately-owned vehicles to any part of the Sinai Peninsula. 
• Traveling to the Western Desert with a privately owned vehicle. Embassy personnel may travel with a professionally licensed tour company. 

Embassy personnel may travel to Siwa Oasis by the northern route, in a private vehicle

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation safety oversight 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Egypt’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime travel

• U.S. Maritime Advisories and Alerts (source: U.S Department of Transportation) 
• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport (source: U.S. Coast Guard) 
• NGA Broadcast Warnings (source: National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency) 

Mariners planning travel to Egypt should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geo-space Intelligence Agency (select “broadcast warnings”).  
 
The Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in Egypt ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108.