Do I need a visa for Sharm el-Sheikh Egypt for a short stay?

When no visa is needed (Sinai stamp only), passport control is very quick. It's recommended to download a sample arrival/migration card online beforehand to fill it out fast, as officers barely check it. Watch out for locals offering to fill the card for you for $2.

If you decide to get a visa after arriving in Sharm el-Sheikh rather than at the airport, you will need to visit a bank to pay first, then go separately to the migration police centre to get the stamp. It is much easier to buy the visa on arrival at the airport.

The visa on arrival at Sharm el-Sheikh airport costs 30 USD.

No visa is required for Sharm el-Sheikh if you stay within the Sinai Peninsula and your trip is 15 days or less. If you plan to stay longer or travel outside Sinai, you will need a visa.

If you want to take a day trip to Petra in Jordan from Sharm el-Sheikh, you will need a full Egyptian visa — the Sinai-only entry does not allow you to leave the peninsula and return.

If you do need a visa on arrival at Sharm el-Sheikh airport (for Cairo trips or stays over 15 days), look for the sign marked 'Bank' — it's located a bit further past the tour operator desks where most arriving passengers are directed.