Can I pay cash for an Egypt tourist visa on arrival at Sharm El Sheikh Airport, and which US dollar notes are accepted?

A recent traveler paid for two visas with one US$100 note and received US$40 change in dollars as two US$20 notes. This suggests that a larger US dollar bill may be accepted when the counter has change.

For three travelers, bring exactly US$75: the visa on arrival costs US$25 per person. This is more reliable than paying with one US$100 note and depending on change.

At Sharm El Sheikh Airport, pay for the visa in cash at the bank counters before passport control. A bank card is generally not needed, so keep your dollars accessible with your travel documents.

Avoid using old-design, damaged, stained or torn US dollar notes, as they are often refused in Egypt. Bring newer, crisp bills for the visa and exchange, ideally in US$20 or US$50 denominations.

If you will stay only in South Sinai for up to 15 days and will not travel to Cairo, Luxor or outside Sinai, ask about the free Sinai Only entry stamp. A regular US$25 Egypt visa is required for travel beyond Sinai.