From the towering Great Pyramids of Giza to the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea, Egypt is a bucket-list destination for many Kiwis. However, traveling from Aotearoa to North Africa is a long journey—usually involving at least 24 hours of flights. The last thing you want after landing in Cairo is to stand in a long queue for paperwork.
The good news? New Zealand citizens are eligible for the Egypt e-visa, a digital travel authorization that allows you to skip the embassy visits and long airport lines.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about securing your Egypt e-visa so you can focus on packing your sunblock and camera.
What is the Egypt E-Visa?
The Egypt e-visa is an official electronic document that grants New Zealanders entry into Egypt for tourism or short-term business. Since its launch, it has become the preferred way for Kiwis to enter the country because the entire process is 100% online.
By applying for an Egypt visa for NZ citizens before you depart, you ensure that your entry is pre-approved by the Egyptian Ministry of Interior, making your arrival at the border much smoother.
Egypt E-Visa Requirements for NZ Citizens
To apply, you don't need a mountain of paperwork. However, you do need to have a few essentials ready before you start the application:
-
A Valid New Zealand Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you intend to arrive in Egypt.
-
Digital Passport Scan: You will need a clear, high-quality scan or photo of your passport’s biography page.
-
Travel Itinerary: You should have your flight details and the address of your hotel or host in Egypt.
-
Email Address: Your approved visa will be sent to you as a PDF via email.
-
Payment Method: A credit or debit card to pay the processing fees.
Choosing the Right Visa Type
Depending on your travel plans, you can choose between two main types of e-visas:
-
Single-Entry E-Visa: Perfect for a standard holiday. This allows you to stay for up to 30 days and is valid for entry within a 90-day window.
-
Multiple-Entry E-Visa: Best for travelers planning to visit neighboring countries (like Jordan or Israel) and then return to Egypt. This is valid for 180 days and allows multiple entries of up to 30 days each.
How to Apply for Your Egypt E-Visa from New Zealand
The application process is straightforward and can be completed from your laptop or smartphone in about 10 minutes.
-
Step 1: Fill out the Form. Head to the Egypt e-visa registration page and enter your personal details, including your full name, nationality, and passport information.
-
Step 2: Upload Documents. Attach the digital copy of your NZ passport.
-
Step 3: Review & Pay. Double-check for typos! Even a small mistake in your passport number can lead to a delay. Pay the fee securely using your card.
-
Step 4: Receive Your Visa. Once approved, the visa is sent to your email. Print a copy to carry with your passport.
Fees and Processing Times
For Kiwis, the standard government fee is approximately USD $25 for a single-entry visa and USD $60 for a multiple-entry visa.
While many visas are approved within 2 to 3 business days, we highly recommend applying at least 7 days before your flight. Unexpected public holidays or high-volume periods can occasionally slow down the process.
Expert Tips for Kiwi Travelers
-
Print a Physical Copy: While Egypt is modernizing, immigration officers at Cairo International Airport often prefer to see a printed copy of your e-visa alongside your passport.
-
Currency Matters: While your NZ credit cards will work in major hotels and malls, Egypt is still a cash-heavy society. Carry some USD or Euros for easy exchange upon arrival.
-
Check the Time Zone: Egypt is usually 9 to 11 hours behind New Zealand (depending on daylight savings). Keep this in mind if you are waiting for a support response regarding your application!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get a visa on arrival instead?
Yes, NZ citizens can technically get a visa on arrival. However, the e-visa is highly recommended to avoid the "bank queue" at the airport where you have to buy the visa sticker before heading to immigration.
What happens if my e-visa is rejected?
Most rejections happen due to simple data entry errors. If rejected, you will need to re-apply with corrected information.
Do children need their own visa?
Yes. Every traveler, including infants and children, must have their own individual e-visa.
Conclusion
Egypt is a land of wonder that every New Zealander should experience at least once. By securing your Egypt e-visa for New Zealand citizens ahead of time, you remove the stress of border bureaucracy and set yourself up for an unforgettable adventure.
Ready to walk where Pharaohs once ruled? Start your Egypt e-visa application today and get one step closer to the trip of a lifetime!