Egypt

Security

The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. The Government of Canada will assist you in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at your personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability is high.

Red Sea and Upper Egypt coastal resorts

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Red Sea coastal resorts such as Hurghada and to the Upper Egypt cities of Luxor and Aswan. 

Pay particular attention to local conditions if you are visiting Upper Egypt and the historic sites of the Nile Valley. Although tourist sites continue to operate, the Upper Nile Valley between Beni Suef and Aswan has seen a greater incidence of strikes, road blockages and civil unrest than the coastal resorts. Feuds between clans, some with a religious aspect, are becoming more commonplace and can turn violent quickly. You may find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Travel in large groups and by organized transportation, and follow the advice of local authorities, hotels and tour guides if you are travelling to rural areas.

Sinai Peninsula coastal resorts

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to coastal resorts in the Sinai Peninsula. Coastal resorts in the Sinai, including Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Nuweiba, have seen several incidents of robbery recently and tensions between the tourism industry and local Bedouin tribes are high. While foreigners have not been specifically targeted, these activities have resulted in the accidental death of at least one foreigner in 2012. Several security incidents have been reported in 2012 near the resort area of Taba.

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to coastal resorts in the Sinai Peninsula. Coastal resorts in the Sinai, including Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Nuweiba, have seen several incidents of robbery recently and tensions between the tourism industry and local Bedouin tribes are high. While foreigners have not been specifically targeted, these activities have resulted in the accidental death of at least one foreigner in 2012. Several security incidents have been reported in 2012 near the resort area of Taba.

If you are visiting coastal resorts in the Sinai Peninsula, you are strongly advised to arrive and depart by air.

Sinai Peninsula (except coastal resorts) (see Advisory)

The security situation in the North Sinai and in the areas bordering Israel and the Gaza Strip remains tenuous. The Egyptian military commenced activities in the area in August 2011 to search for insurgents. Since then, there have been incidents of gunfights and attacks on police stations by well-armed groups. An attack at the Rafah border crossing on August 5, 2012, left 15 soldiers dead and many injured. This area has also been used to stage terrorist attacks in Israel.

Road blockades by unsanctioned groups as well as kidnappings, robberies and carjackings by armed groups have been reported in many areas of the Sinai. You may require a police escort to travel on some roads. You are discouraged from visiting St. Catherines Monastery or taking other daytrips in the interior of the Sinai as attacks and roadblocks have been reported.

There has been an increase in kidnappings of foreigners by Bedouin tribesmen in the Sinai Peninsula, in particular in the area of St. Catherine’s Monastery. Abductees are used as a bargaining chip with authorities in local disputes. To date, such kidnappings have been brief and abductees have not been harmed. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Elections

Legislative elections, originally scheduled for April 2013, have been postponed until the fall. Heightened security measures may be in place and the potential for unrest and violence is high in the period surrounding the elections, particularly on voting dates and in the vicinity of polling stations. There may also be a heightened sensitivity to foreigners in the vicinity of polling stations. Monitor local media for election dates and locations, stay away from polling stations on voting days and follow the advice of local authorities.

Demonstrations

Civil unrest and demonstrations have been occurring in many parts of Egypt since January 2011. This is especially the case in areas of central Cairo, in particular Tahrir Square and its vicinity. Demonstrations can also occur in other urban centres such as Alexandria, Port Said, Suez, Ismailia and Mahalla. Foreign visitors, including journalists, have been assaulted during demonstrations. There is a potential for rapid escalation into violence where large groups of people are assembled, and curfews may be imposed on short notice.

Be extremely vigilant, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, stay clear of military offices and facilities, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Terrorism

Egyptian officials have confirmed that Egyptian Security Forces in the Sinai have elevated their level of alert due to concerns over possible terrorist attacks.  Exercise extreme caution when travelling to the Sinai, including to coastal resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh.  

Terrorist attacks have occurred at tourist locations and elsewhere throughout the country. Most occurred on local holiday weekends. The threat of more attacks is constant and high, and there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Monitor local developments and exercise caution, especially in commercial establishments, government facilities, public areas, tourist sites, the vicinity of churches and mosques at the time of religious services, and other areas frequented by foreigners.

Kidnapping

There has been an increase in incidents of kidnapping in Egypt since the beginning of 2012. In the area of greater Cairo and the Nile Delta, there have been several incidents of kidnappings and/or carjackings involving wealthy individuals or their children. Locals are generally targeted and there have been no reports of foreigners being implicated. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Crime

Serious crimes have been on the increase in Egypt in the wake of the January 2011 unrest. In addition to the increased threat of kidnapping (see above), carjackings have become much more commonplace. Sports utility vehicles are typically targeted. Although isolated areas and night driving present the greatest threat, there have been reported incidents in daylight hours and in busy areas of Cairo. Assailants are likely armed, and a variety of tactics may be used to get vehicles to stop, including throwing objects at the windshield, feigning a traffic accident or a minor collision with the target vehicle, or “sandwiching” the target vehicle and forcing it off the road. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not resist as carjackers are typically after the vehicle and, if the carjacking is successful, will leave the driver unharmed.

Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing occurs, especially in tourist locations and on the metro. Anecdotal evidence suggests that crime is increasing, particularly property crime such as theft and robbery. Ensure personal belongings are secure and respect any advice or instructions from local security authorities.

If you are a victim of crime, report it to the Tourist Police or at any nearby police station as soon as possible. Request a copy of the police report at the time the report is made. Failure to report the crime while in Egypt makes it much more difficult to seek prosecution.

Women's safety

Women, particularly foreign women, are frequently subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. This often takes the form of staring, inappropriate remarks, catcalls and touching. Please consult our publication entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel for more information.

Landmines

Unexploded landmines remain a risk in some desert and coastal areas, notably the Mediterranean shore, the Western Desert, the Sinai Peninsula and the western shore of the Gulf of Suez. Known minefields are not marked by signs, but may be enclosed by barbed wire. Seek local advice, especially if travelling off-road.

Transportation

Road conditions are often poor and the rate of vehicular accidents is one of the highest in the world. Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices. Be cautious when crossing streets as drivers do not give pedestrians the right of way. In the event of an accident, do not move the vehicle until the police arrive.

Use vehicles and drivers from reputable travel agencies.

Avoid microbuses because of hazardous driving habits.

Taxis and the metro are considered the safest means of travel. Most taxis do not have working meters, and back seats are rarely equipped with seat belts. Women should not sit in the front seat, as this could be misinterpreted by the driver.

Rail travel is generally safe between Alexandria and Cairo; however, safety standards vary throughout the rest of Egypt. In the past, protesters have blocked railways, causing deadly accidents. Exercise a high degree of caution.

Accidents have occurred on ferries because of overcrowding and poor safety standards. Use reputable ferry operators.

Consult our Transportation Safety page in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

Scuba diving / aquatic activities

Sharks are present in the waters off Egypt. Certain beaches and dive areas may be subject to temporary closures. The Egyptian Chamber of Diving and Water Sports provides updates on closures and diving conditions in Egypt. Exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities.

Borders

If you wish to cross the border between Egypt and Israel, you should verify the status of all crossing points prior to arrival with the Egyptian Embassy in Israel or the Israeli Embassy in Egypt. Cross-border movement regulations and restrictions are subject to change at any time and are the prerogative of the responsible authorities.

The Rafah border crossing point to Gaza, which had been closed since June 2007, was reopened in May 2011. However, the border has been subject to sporadic closures since then. The entry and exit of people remain controlled by border authorities in both Egypt and Gaza. Exercise extreme caution when travelling to this area due to ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip. Consult local authorities and refer to the travel advice for Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip for further information.

Beyond the provision of a travel document (the passport), the Canadian government does not facilitate the crossing of borders by private citizens. It is the citizen's responsibility to meet the entry requirements of the country where they wish to travel, in most cases either through application for a visa or simply by going to a point of entry. Authorities at the Rafah border crossing from Egypt to Gaza have sometimes requested a letter or witnessed declaration from the Canadian Embassy as a requirement to cross the border. The Embassy is unable to provide such letters given the foregoing and you should avoid all travel to Gaza. The Canadian government has very limited ability to provide consular services to Canadians in the Gaza Strip and once in Gaza it can be difficult to leave.

General safety information

Although most tourist sites are open, the situation across Egypt remains unpredictable and less consistently safe than it was before the events of January 2011. There is a potential for rapid escalation into violence where large groups of people are assembled.

Because of the recent unrest, elements of the Egyptian government responsible for ensuring security and public safety are not fully reconstituted. Until the civilian police force is fully restored, response to emergency requests for assistance or reports of crime may be delayed.

Egypt has a special police force to assist tourists. Officers, who wear a distinctive arm band saying “Tourist and Antiquities Police”, can be found in hotels and at tourist sites.

Carry identification at all times. Photocopy your passport and other identification in case of loss or seizure.

Emergency services

Dial 122 for police.

Entry/Exit Requirements

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter.
Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry requirements. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Egyptian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt and its consulates for up-to-date information.

Official passport holders (special and diplomatic) must consult the Official Travel page as they are subject to different entry requirements.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit Egypt, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from Egypt.

Visa

Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Egypt.

Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required

A tourist visa may be purchased at the airport upon arrival. However, you should obtain your visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before arrival to avoid lengthy delays or the possibility of being refused entry. All other visas must be obtained from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before arrival.

If you intend to stay for more than one month and have obtained a visa from an Egyptian embassy abroad, a 30-day visa will be stamped in your passport regardless of the visa previously granted. You are responsible for renewing this visa. Visas of longer duration can be obtained at the immigration section in the Mogamma building, Tahrir Square, Cairo.

Entry / exit stamps

You must show proof of an entry stamp in your valid passport at the point of departure. An exit stamp cannot be obtained without proof of entry and you will be denied exit.

If you have entered the country with a Canadian passport and have obtained a new passport while in Egypt, you must present the new passport to the Egyptian immigration authorities at the Mogamma building to ensure that the entry stamp is transferred into the new passport. These requirements also apply to newborns and dual citizens.

If a child is born in Egypt to a Canadian parent, a data stamp proving that the child was born in Egypt has to be added to the child's Canadian passport before the child can exit the country. Since there will be no entry stamp in the child's passport, the data stamp is obtained at the immigration section in the Mogamma building by submitting the child's birth certificate along with the Canadian passport. Parents are advised to contact the Embassy of Canada as soon as possible to apply for citizenship and a passport for their child so as not to further delay what can be a lengthy process.

Regional travel

If you are contemplating onward travel to other Arab countries, bear in mind that Canadians have been denied entry because their passports bore: (a) an Israeli visa; (b) an Israeli border stamp; or (c) an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate you entered from Israel).

If you are travelling in the Middle East, your passport could come under increased scrutiny by immigration authorities and the authenticity of your passport could be questioned because of suspicion of possible misuse. Contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.

Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. Please consult our Children page for more information.

Health entry requirements

All foreigners planning to study, work or train in Egypt for longer than one month will be required to undergo testing for human immunodeficiency virus. Egyptian immigration authorities in the Mogamma building provide information on this procedure upon application.

Yellow fever

Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before allowing entry. Consult the World Health Organization’s country list to obtain information on this country’s requirements.

Health

For the latest Travel Health Notices and information on vaccinations, outbreaks and diseases, consult the website of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

The Agency strongly recommends that you consult with a travel medicine clinic or health care provider preferably six weeks before departure.

The Agency publishes travel health advice for Egypt.

Medical facilities

Medical facilities are below Canadian standards.

General health information

Air pollution is a health concern. Take this into account and consult with your physician prior to departure if you suffer from respiratory problems.

Be prepared for the heat and keep hydrated by drinking lots of water.

Laws & Culture

You are subject to local laws. Consult our Arrest and Detention FAQ for more information.

Laws

The state of emergency (Emergency Law), which had been in effect since 1981, was lifted on May 31, 2012. While this represents an increase in civil liberties, you are advised to exercise restraint and common sense during the transition period.

The use of drugs and open consumption of alcohol (other than in licensed facilities such as hotels and restaurants) are prohibited. Transgressions could be punished by detention or other penalties.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Capital punishment is a sentencing option for certain drug-related crimes.

Photography of bridges, canals, including the Suez Canal, government, police and embassy buildings and vehicles, as well as military personnel and establishments is prohibited.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Customs

Strict duties apply on the importation of expensive electronics, including video and photographic equipment, laptops, and computer software and hardware. Such equipment should be for personal use and you should list it (model and serial number) and check it upon arrival and departure, in which case no duty will be collected. Appropriate permits and authorizations are required for the commercial importation of any type of electronics. It is prohibited to export any antiquity or any item older than 100 years without a licence. Contact the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Ottawa for further information regarding customs requirements.

Forced marriages

There are reports of Canadian citizens being forced into marriage without their prior knowledge or consent. For more information about forced marriages, please consult our Marriage Overseas FAQs and our publication entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel.

Dual citizenship

You may be considered an Egyptian citizen if you were born in Egypt or were born outside Egypt to an Egyptian father. Consular assistance by the Embassy of Canada is unlikely to be permitted by the Egyptian authorities and may therefore be extremely limited.

Egyptian-Canadian men may be subject to military service when in Egypt. In order to be exempted, before leaving Egypt dual citizens are required to present many documents, among them a document of discharge due to dual citizenship. This document does not necessarily provide an exemption; getting this document may be a drawn-out process that could affect your departure date; and the Canadian government has no jurisdiction in the process. In the end, military service for Egyptian men is the decision of the Egyptian government. You should contact the Egyptian embassy or consulate in Canada before travelling.

Consult our publication entitled Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know for more information.

Culture

The work week is Sunday through Thursday.

Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Egyptian culture. Demonstrations of homosexuality have been deemed an affront to public morals, and some Egyptian homosexuals have been jailed.

Islamic practices and beliefs are adhered to in the country's customs, laws and regulations. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour. Dress conservatively: for women, knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable, and men should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Money

The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP).

A maximum of EGP 5,000 can be brought into or taken out of Egypt.

Traveller's cheques and foreign currency are easily exchanged in hotels and banks. U.S. dollars are preferred, particularly at tourist sites. It has become common practice for some travel agents and tour operators to request that payment be made in U.S. cash only.

Major credit cards are accepted in larger stores and for larger purchases, but many merchants will accept only cash or may charge a fee for payment by credit card. MasterCard may be refused in banks, hotels, shops, and by travel agents because of its link to the failed Bank of Credit and Commerce International. MasterCard is accepted for cash advances at the Bank of America, located on Qasr al-Aini Street near Tahrir Square in Cairo.

Disasters & Climate

Egypt, particularly Cairo, is located in an active seismic zone. The country is also subject to sand storms and dust storms.