From 1st October 2023Canadian nationals wishing to explore theEgypt will now have to comply with a new requirement: obtaining a Egyptian visa before their departure. This decision, taken by the Canadian government and supported by information from Visamundi, marks a significant change compared with the previous procedure, which allowed a visa on arrival or via a e-visa. Canadians will now have to complete additional administrative procedures to travel to this destination rich in history and cultural treasures.
From October 2023, Canadians will need a visa to explore Egypt
As of October 1, 2023, Canadian nationals wishing to travel to Egypt will be required to obtain a Egyptian visa before their departure. Whereas previously it was possible to obtain this visa on arrival or via an electronic document, Canadians will now have to follow a stricter procedure to guarantee their access to the Land of the Pharaohs. This article looks at the steps involved in obtaining a visa, the reasons behind this change in policy and its repercussions for Canadian travellers.
Steps to take to obtain an Egyptian visa
The new regulations require Canadians to go in person to the Egyptian Embassy in Ottawa or the Consulate General in Montreal to submit their visa application. Alternatively, they can apply by post. To complete their application, applicants will need to provide a number of essential documents:
- A visa application form duly signed and completed.
- A valid Canadian passportThe visa must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Egypt.
- Two recent passport photographs.
- La proof of travel reservation or a provisional itinerary of their stay.
- Settlement of visa fees by credit card, certified cheque or postal order.
Once the complete application has been submitted, the Egyptian embassy will send the visa to the applicant by post. Canadians are advised to plan ahead to avoid any inconvenience caused by postal delays.
Reasons for the policy change
This change in policy concerning Egyptian visas is part of a clear desire on the part of the Egyptian authorities to step up security measures and combat illegal immigration to Europe via Egypt. These tighter controls are designed not only to protect foreign visitors but also to direct tourist flows towards supervised activities, thereby minimising the risks to which travellers in high-risk areas could be exposed.
This decision is reminiscent of the regular warnings issued by several Western countries, including Canada, regarding the unstable security situation in certain regions of Egypt. These warnings suggest avoiding areas deemed sensitive or dangerous, reinforcing the need for stricter supervision of visitors.
Feedback from tour operators and future visitors
The new visa requirement has given rise to mixed reactions among Canadian tour operators. Some believe that this measure is disproportionate and considerably complicates the preparation of trips to Egypt. Many travellers are also concerned that this new procedure will entail additional paperwork, including a trip to the Egyptian embassy.
Fears about delays in processing and sending visas are also at the heart of future visitors' concerns. The changes could potentially deter some Canadians from booking trips to Egypt, a country renowned for its incredible archaeological and historical sites.
A contrast with relief measures for other nationalities
It is important to note that despite this increased requirement for Canadians, Egypt continues to facilitate access for international tourists from other countries, notably through the introduction of the e-visa. In addition, citizens of African Union member countries still benefit from the visa on arrivalThe same applies to certain non-African countries such as the United States and Russia, under bilateral agreements.
The Egyptian authorities are not stopping there, and are also looking to develop the medical tourismThis will be achieved by introducing specific procedures for granting visas to foreign patients wishing to receive treatment in Egypt.
Comparison of visa requirements for Egypt for Canadians
| Elements | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of entry into force | 1st October 2023 |
| Type of visa | Egyptian visa required |
| Old procedure | Visa on arrival or e-visa available |
| Current procedure | Application in person or by post to the embassy or consulate |
| Documents required | Form, valid passport, photos, itinerary, visa fees |
| Office locations | Embassy in Ottawa, Consulate in Montreal |
| Processing time | Plan well in advance |
| Reasons for change | Securing visits and combating illegal immigration |
| Impact on tourism | Possible drop in bookings to Egypt |
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