Digital Nomad Visa Egypt: Everything You Need to Know in 2025 -

Egypt is more than just pyramids and ancient history—it’s an affordable and exciting destination for remote workers. With its low cost of living, vibrant cities, and stunning beaches, Egypt is becoming an attractive option for digital nomads. But does Egypt offer a digital nomad visa? And if not, what are the best alternatives for long-term remote work in the country? Let’s dive in!

Does Egypt Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

As of 2025, Egypt does not have an official digital nomad visa. Unlike countries such as Portugal, Spain, or Thailand, Egypt has yet to introduce a dedicated visa for remote workers looking to live and work legally in the country.

However, that doesn’t mean working remotely from Egypt is impossible. Many digital nomads, freelancers, and remote employees stay in Egypt using alternative visa options.

Tourist Visas for Digital Nomads in Egypt

One of the most common ways for remote workers to stay in Egypt is through a tourist visa. Most travelers can apply for an e-Visa online, which grants them 30 or 90 days in the country.

The main downside? Tourist visas are not designed for long-term stays. If you want to stay beyond the initial period, you may need to apply for an extension or leave the country and re-enter.

Visa Extensions and Temporary Residence Permits

Some digital nomads manage to extend their stay in Egypt by applying for visa extensions at local immigration offices. This process can vary depending on your nationality, and approval is not always guaranteed.

Another option is a temporary residence permit, which may be available if you have a local sponsor, study program, or another qualifying reason to remain in Egypt legally. However, this is not a straightforward option for most remote workers.

Visa Runs: A Short-Term Solution

A common strategy among digital nomads is the visa run—leaving Egypt before their visa expires and returning shortly after. Some travelers take a quick trip to Jordan, Cyprus, or Turkey before coming back.

While this can work for a while, it’s not a reliable long-term solution. Egyptian border authorities may eventually question frequent re-entries, and there’s always a risk of being denied entry.

Will Egypt Introduce a Digital Nomad Visa?

There have been discussions about Egypt becoming a more digital-nomad-friendly destination, but so far, no official program exists. With cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and Dahab attracting more remote workers, there’s potential for a digital nomad visa in the future.

For now, if you’re planning to work remotely from Egypt, you’ll need to navigate the visa options carefully. It’s always best to check the latest immigration rules before making any long-term plans.

Best Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Egypt

Egypt doesn’t have a dedicated digital nomad visa, but that doesn’t mean remote workers can’t stay for extended periods. If you’re planning to work remotely from Egypt, you’ll need to explore alternative visa options. Depending on how long you intend to stay, you can choose from tourist visas, temporary residence permits, or other workaround solutions.

1. Tourist Visa for Digital Nomads

The most common way for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to enter Egypt is by applying for a tourist visa. While it’s not designed for long-term stays, it can work for digital nomads who don’t plan to settle permanently.

Types of Tourist Visas

30-day single-entry visa – Ideal for short stays but requires an extension if you plan to stay longer.
90-day multiple-entry visa – A better option for digital nomads who want flexibility to leave and return without reapplying.

How to Apply for a Tourist Visa

You can obtain a tourist visa through one of the following methods:

Egypt e-Visa – Available online for citizens of eligible countries. The application is straightforward and usually processed within a few days.
Visa on arrival – Available at Egyptian airports for select nationalities. However, it’s limited to 30 days and doesn’t guarantee approval.
Egyptian embassy or consulate – If you prefer to have your visa sorted before arrival, you can apply in advance through an embassy.

Extending a Tourist Visa in Egypt

If you fall in love with Cairo, Dahab, or Alexandria and want to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension at the Mogamma building in Cairo or other immigration offices across the country. Extensions are usually granted for one to three months, depending on your nationality and circumstances.

Cost of a Tourist Visa

The cost of a tourist visa depends on the type and duration:

Single-entry 30-day visa – Around $25
Multiple-entry 90-day visa – Around $60

While this option is relatively affordable, keep in mind that it doesn’t provide a legal work status. It’s a temporary solution for remote workers who can operate under the radar.

2. Temporary Residence Permit

If you plan to stay in Egypt for more than a few months, a temporary residence permit may be a better option. While this isn’t an official digital nomad visa, it allows foreigners to remain in the country for extended periods.

Who Can Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit?

Business owners and investors – If you open a business or invest in Egypt, you may qualify for residency.
Students – Enrolling in a local educational institution can grant you access to a residence permit.
Family sponsorship – If you have an Egyptian spouse or close relatives in the country, you may be eligible.
Freelancers with local sponsorship – Some digital nomads arrange sponsorship through a business or local employer.

Requirements for a Temporary Residence Permit

Applying for a residence permit typically requires:

Proof of financial stability – Demonstrating that you can support yourself.
Local sponsor or reason for staying – Business, education, or family ties.
Legal documentation – Passport, visa history, and other paperwork.

While this option provides more stability than a tourist visa, it’s not a straightforward process for remote workers without local ties.

3. Work Visa (Alternative Option for Freelancers)

Egypt’s work visa system is not designed for digital nomads or freelancers working for foreign companies. However, some remote workers find creative ways to obtain legal work authorization.

How to Get a Work Visa as a Freelancer

Partnering with a local company – Some freelancers collaborate with Egyptian businesses that provide visa sponsorship. This often requires signing a work contract.
Starting a business in Egypt – Registering a business in Egypt can open doors to long-term residency and work permits. However, it involves bureaucratic hurdles.
Freelance platforms and agency work – While not an official visa pathway, some remote workers take on projects for Egyptian clients, which may strengthen a future visa application.

Since Egypt does not have a self-employment visa, getting a work permit is challenging unless you have local connections or a business presence in the country.

Cost of Living in Egypt for Digital Nomads

Egypt is one of the most affordable destinations for digital nomads, offering an excellent balance between low living costs and a high quality of life. Whether you’re staying in the bustling streets of Cairo, the coastal paradise of Dahab, or somewhere in between, you’ll find that Egypt can be a budget-friendly base for remote work.

Here’s a closer look at what you can expect to spend:

Breakdown of Monthly Expenses

Expense	Cost (USD)
Rent (1-Bedroom, Cairo)	$250 – $500
Rent (1-Bedroom, Dahab)	$200 – $400
Co-working Space	$50 – $150/month
SIM Card + Data Plan	$10 – $20/month
Local Meal	$2 – $5
Transportation (Taxi/Uber)	$0.50 – $2 per ride

Housing Costs

The cost of renting an apartment in Egypt depends on the city and location.

Cairo & Alexandria – Apartments in central areas like Zamalek, Maadi, or Downtown Cairo tend to be $400-$500 per month for a furnished one-bedroom, but cheaper options exist in less central neighborhoods.
Dahab & Hurghada – If you’re looking for a more relaxed, beachside lifestyle, expect to pay around $200-$400 for a similar apartment.
Short-term rentals – Airbnb and Facebook groups are popular for finding short-term stays. Prices vary but can be higher for tourists.

If you’re staying longer, negotiating rent directly with landlords can get you a much better deal.

Co-Working Spaces & Internet Costs

Egypt has a growing co-working scene, especially in Cairo and Alexandria. Some popular co-working spaces include:

KMT House (Cairo) – A cozy, expat-friendly space with a strong community.
MQR (Cairo & Alexandria) – Affordable and great for networking.
Dahab Co-Working – A beachside workspace with fast Wi-Fi for digital nomads.

Most co-working spaces charge between $50 – $150 per month, depending on location and amenities.

Internet speeds in big cities are generally good, but backup SIM cards are recommended, especially in Dahab or remote areas. Local SIM cards with high-speed data cost $10-$20 per month, with providers like Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat offering decent coverage.

Food & Dining

One of the best things about living in Egypt as a digital nomad is the cheap and delicious food.

Local Egyptian meals (like koshari, falafel, or shawarma) cost between $2 – $5.
Mid-range restaurants – Expect to pay $5 – $15 for a meal at a nice café or restaurant.
Western/expat restaurants – These can be pricier, ranging from $10 – $25 per meal.

If you cook at home, groceries are very affordable. Local markets sell fresh vegetables, fruits, and spices at a fraction of Western prices.

Transportation

Getting around in Egypt is incredibly cheap, with several options available:

Uber & Careem – Rides cost $1 – $3 within most cities.
Metro (Cairo) – One of the best ways to avoid traffic, with tickets as low as $0.20 per ride.
Taxis – Can be cheap, but always negotiate the fare before getting in.
Buses & microbuses – Even cheaper but harder to navigate for foreigners.

For long-distance travel, domestic flights, trains, and buses are budget-friendly. Flights between Cairo and Luxor or Hurghada start at around $50 one-way.

Best Cities in Egypt for Digital Nomads

Egypt has a diverse mix of cities that cater to different digital nomad lifestyles. Whether you’re into urban energy, beach vibes, or historical charm, there’s a place for you.

1. Cairo – Best for Culture & Networking

Cairo is the heart of Egypt, full of history, culture, and a growing digital nomad community. It’s perfect for nomads who enjoy city life, co-working spaces, and easy access to everything.

Pros: Great cafés, co-working spaces, strong expat scene.
Cons: Heavy traffic, air pollution, fast-paced lifestyle.

2. Alexandria – Best for a Coastal City Feel

Located along the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria offers a slower pace of life than Cairo but still provides urban conveniences.

Pros: Affordable rent, sea views, vibrant local culture.
Cons: Fewer co-working spaces, limited nomad community.

3. Dahab – Best for Relaxed Beach Life

Dahab is a dream for remote workers who love the sea. With fast Wi-Fi, affordable rent, and a laid-back vibe, it’s a growing hotspot for digital nomads.

Pros: Cheap rent, diving & outdoor activities, strong digital nomad scene.
Cons: Limited nightlife, can feel small over time.

4. Hurghada – Best for Resort-Style Living

Hurghada is another great Red Sea destination, offering beachside living with more amenities than Dahab. It’s a great balance between city life and seaside relaxation.

Pros: Affordable, access to resorts, scuba diving.
Cons: Tourist-heavy, fewer digital nomad events.

Internet Quality in Egypt

Is the Internet Good for Digital Nomads?

The internet in Egypt is generally reliable in cities, but there are some key things to know:

Cairo & Alexandria – Good internet in apartments and co-working spaces.
Dahab & Hurghada – Decent speeds, but always have a backup SIM card.
Remote areas – Wi-Fi can be slow, so mobile hotspots are a must.

Best SIM Cards for Remote Work

If you need fast and stable internet, getting a local SIM card is essential. The top providers are:

Vodafone – Best coverage across Egypt.
Orange – Good speeds and reliable service.
Etisalat – Great value data plans.

A monthly data plan costs $10 – $20, and buying two SIM cards from different providers is a good idea if you plan to work remotely in multiple locations.

How to Apply for a Visa to Stay in Egypt

Applying for a visa to stay in Egypt is a fairly straightforward process, but the requirements depend on your nationality and how long you plan to stay. Whether you’re visiting for a short-term workcation or planning a longer stay as a digital nomad, here’s everything you need to know.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, it’s crucial to confirm whether you need a visa to enter Egypt and which type suits your stay. Here’s what you should do:

Visit the official website of the Egyptian government, embassy, or consulate to check visa rules for your country.
Determine if your nationality qualifies for an e-Visa, visa on arrival, or requires an embassy application.
Check the length of stay allowed under different visa categories—some visitors can extend their visa while in Egypt, while others must leave and reapply.

Who Needs a Visa for Egypt?

Visa-free entry – A small number of nationalities (like Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents) can enter Egypt without a visa for a limited time.
Visa on arrival – Many nationalities, including the US, UK, Canada, and the EU, can get a 30-day visa on arrival at Egyptian airports.
e-Visa option – Some travelers can apply for an e-Visa online before arrival for smoother entry.

For long-term stays beyond tourist visas, you’ll need to explore temporary residence permits or work sponsorships.

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Type

Egypt offers several visa options, depending on how long you plan to stay and whether you’ll be working or just exploring.

1. Tourist Visa (Short Stays & Visa Runs)

The Egyptian tourist visa is the easiest to obtain and best suited for short-term nomads or visitors.

Duration: 30 days (single entry) or 90 days (multiple entry).
Cost: Around $25 for a single-entry visa or $60 for multiple entries.
Where to apply:
- Online (e-Visa portal)
- Visa on arrival at airports
- Egyptian embassy/consulate in your home country

✅ Can be extended for up to 3 months at a local immigration office in Egypt.

2. Temporary Residence Permit (For Longer Stays)

If you plan to stay in Egypt for more than 3 months, a temporary residence permit is the best option. It’s commonly granted to people who:

Are working remotely and need an extended stay.
Have business interests or investments in Egypt.
Are studying at an Egyptian university.
Have family connections in Egypt.

💡 Important: To qualify, you usually need proof of income and a local sponsor, such as a company, school, or family member.

3. Work Visa (For Employment or Business Owners)

A work visa is more difficult for digital nomads since official work permits require an Egyptian employer sponsorship. However, there are alternative routes:

Freelancers & remote workers – Some nomads partner with local companies to secure sponsorship.
Business owners – Registering a local business in Egypt can help you qualify for a work visa.
Teaching & specialized jobs – Some expats secure work visas through English teaching jobs or niche industries.

If you don’t have a local sponsor, a tourist visa or temporary residence permit is usually the better option.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

Once you’ve chosen the best visa option, it’s time to prepare your paperwork. While requirements vary, most visas require:

Essential Documents for an Egypt Visa:

✅ Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
✅ Visa application form – Available online or at an embassy.
✅ Proof of income – Required for longer stays or residence permits.
✅ Accommodation details – Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or rental agreement.
✅ Passport-sized photos – Some applications require recent passport photos.
✅ Return flight ticket – Some embassies may ask for proof of onward travel.

For residence permits and work visas, additional documents like a letter of sponsorship or business registration proof might be needed.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Now that you have all your documents ready, it’s time to apply! Depending on your visa type, you have three ways to apply:

Option 1: Apply Online (For e-Visas)

The e-Visa system is the fastest and most convenient option for many travelers. Here’s how:

Visit the Egypt e-Visa Portal and create an account.
Fill out the online application form and upload required documents.
Pay the visa fee (around $25 for a single entry).
Receive an approval email (usually within 3-5 business days).

✅ Print your e-Visa and show it upon arrival.

Option 2: Apply at an Egyptian Embassy or Consulate

For longer-term visas, you may need to visit the Egyptian embassy in your home country. The process usually includes:

Filling out a visa application form.
Submitting documents in person.
Attending an interview (if required).
Waiting for processing (can take 1-4 weeks).

Option 3: Get a Visa on Arrival (For Eligible Nationalities)

If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival, you can skip the pre-application process and apply when you land in Egypt.

Arrive at an Egyptian airport (Cairo, Hurghada, Luxor, or Sharm El Sheikh).
Head to the Visa on Arrival counter before passport control.
Pay $25 (USD, cash only) for a single-entry visa.
Receive your visa sticker and proceed through immigration.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring exact change in USD to avoid delays!

Can You Extend Your Visa in Egypt?

Yes! If you want to stay longer than your visa allows, you can apply for an extension at Egypt’s Mogamma (immigration office) in Cairo or similar offices in other cities.

Tourist visas can be extended for up to 3 months.
Temporary residence permits may be renewed for longer stays.
The process takes a few days and costs around $100-$150.

✅ Important: Overstaying your visa results in fines upon departure, so it’s best to extend on time!

Pros and Cons of Living in Egypt as a Digital Nomad

Egypt is a fascinating destination for digital nomads looking for affordable living, rich history, and year-round sunshine. But like any country, it comes with both advantages and challenges. Before you decide to pack your bags, here’s a detailed breakdown of what it’s like to live and work remotely in Egypt.

✅ Pros of Living in Egypt as a Digital Nomad

Egypt has a lot to offer, especially for remote workers who value a low cost of living, cultural depth, and warm weather.

1. Affordable Cost of Living

One of the biggest perks of living in Egypt is how far your money can go. Compared to Western countries, expenses are significantly lower, allowing digital nomads to live comfortably on a budget.

💰 Estimated Monthly Expenses in Cairo (USD):

Rent (1-bedroom apartment): $250 – $500
Co-working space: $50 – $150
Local meal: $2 – $5
Transportation: $0.50 – $2 per ride
SIM card + data plan: $10 – $20 per month

If you’re earning in USD, EUR, or GBP, Egypt is a financially stress-free place where you can live well while spending a fraction of what you would in Europe or the U.S.

2. Rich History and Cultural Experiences

Living in Egypt means immersing yourself in one of the world’s most fascinating cultures. Whether you’re exploring:

The Great Pyramids of Giza,
The ancient temples of Luxor, or
The bustling markets of Cairo,

there’s no shortage of history, architecture, and cultural experiences to inspire you.

For digital nomads who love traveling and exploring unique destinations, Egypt is a dream location.

3. Friendly Locals and Expat Community

Egyptians are known for their hospitality, and many locals go out of their way to help foreigners. Whether you need directions or insider tips on the best places to eat, you’ll find that most Egyptians are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their culture.

Additionally, there’s a growing expat and nomad community in cities like:

Cairo (for networking and big-city life)
Dahab (for the beach and laid-back vibes)
Alexandria (for Mediterranean culture)

Meeting other remote workers is easy, whether through co-working spaces, Facebook groups, or local events.

4. Year-Round Warm Weather

If you love warm, sunny climates, Egypt is perfect. Even during winter, temperatures remain comfortable, especially in cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.

☀️ What to expect by season:

Winter (Dec – Feb): 15°C – 25°C (59°F – 77°F)
Spring (Mar – May): 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F)
Summer (Jun – Aug): 30°C – 40°C+ (86°F – 104°F)
Autumn (Sep – Nov): 20°C – 32°C (68°F – 90°F)

If you’re looking for year-round sunshine, Egypt is a great choice—just be prepared for hot summers, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan, and the Western Desert).

❌ Cons of Living in Egypt as a Digital Nomad

While Egypt offers a lot of benefits, there are some challenges that digital nomads should be aware of before moving.

1. Internet Reliability Varies by Location

Internet speed in Egypt is not the best, especially if you’re used to fast fiber connections in Europe or North America.

📶 What to Expect:

In Cairo, Alexandria, and major cities, WiFi is decent but can be inconsistent.
In Dahab, Hurghada, and smaller towns, expect slower speeds and occasional outages.
Power cuts are rare but can happen in remote areas.

🔹 Solution: Many nomads use backup SIM cards with 4G mobile data for more reliable internet access. The best providers are:

Vodafone Egypt
Orange Egypt
Etisalat

A mobile data plan with unlimited internet costs around $20 – $30 per month.

2. Bureaucratic Visa Processes Can Be Slow

Egypt’s visa process isn’t the most straightforward, and long-term stays require patience.

Tourist visas (30 days) are easy to get but must be renewed frequently.
Residence permits require a lot of paperwork and can take weeks to process.
Overstaying can result in fines or issues at the airport when leaving.

🔹 Solution: Many digital nomads do visa runs to nearby countries like Jordan or Turkey and return on a new tourist visa.

3. Some Areas May Have Safety Concerns

Egypt is generally safe, but there are a few things to be aware of:

Petty theft (especially in crowded markets).
Aggressive haggling from street vendors and taxi drivers.
Uncomfortable attention for solo female travelers.
Political protests (avoid large gatherings).

💡 Pro Tips for Staying Safe:

Stick to well-populated areas and avoid isolated streets at night.
Use ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) instead of hailing taxis.
Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention.
Check travel advisories before visiting border regions or the Sinai Peninsula.

For most travelers and digital nomads, Egypt is safe as long as you take basic precautions.

Is Egypt a Good Choice for Digital Nomads?

Egypt is a fantastic destination for digital nomads looking for:
✔️ A low cost of living
✔️ A unique cultural experience
✔️ Warm weather year-round
✔️ A growing expat and nomad community

However, be prepared for some challenges, especially with internet reliability, visa bureaucracy, and occasional safety concerns.

With the right mindset and preparation, Egypt can be an incredible base for digital nomads who want to live affordably while experiencing one of the most historic countries in the world.

Final Thoughts: Is Egypt Right for Digital Nomads?

Egypt is a unique and exciting destination for digital nomads who want a mix of affordability, adventure, and culture. While it may not have an official digital nomad visa yet, the low cost of living, fascinating history, and welcoming atmosphere make it an attractive choice for remote workers. However, like any destination, Egypt comes with its own set of challenges, and whether or not it’s right for you depends on your lifestyle, work needs, and expectations.

Who Will Love Egypt as a Digital Nomad?

Egypt is a great choice for digital nomads who:

✔ Love warm weather and sunshine year-round.
✔ Want an affordable cost of living to stretch their budget.
✔ Enjoy exploring history, culture, and ancient sites.
✔ Are okay with occasional internet hiccups and know how to work around them.
✔ Prefer a vibrant, energetic atmosphere rather than a quiet, structured environment.
✔ Don’t mind navigating bureaucratic visa processes and renewing their stay when needed.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly country where you can work remotely, live well, and experience a completely different culture, Egypt is worth considering.

Who Might Struggle with Egypt as a Remote Worker?

Egypt might not be the best fit for digital nomads who:

❌ Need ultra-fast, reliable internet for video calls or heavy data work.
❌ Prefer quiet, structured environments over energetic city life.
❌ Want a hassle-free, long-term visa option.
❌ Are uncomfortable with a different cultural and social environment.
❌ Prefer walkable cities with great public transportation (Cairo traffic can be chaotic).

If stable, high-speed internet is essential for your work, you may find it frustrating at times. Also, while Egypt is generally safe, adjusting to a new culture, language barriers, and bureaucratic systems may take some patience.

Adapting to Life as a Digital Nomad in Egypt

If you decide to live in Egypt as a digital nomad, a little preparation can go a long way in making your experience smoother. Here are some key tips to help you settle in:

1. Have a Backup Internet Plan

Get a local SIM card with Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat.
Consider getting multiple SIMs for better coverage in different locations.
Use co-working spaces in major cities for more stable connections.

2. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

While many Egyptians speak some English, learning basic Arabic can be super helpful for daily life.
Simple phrases like “Shukran” (thank you) and “Kam da?” (how much is this?) go a long way.

3. Plan Your Visa Strategy

Most nomads enter on a tourist visa and extend it when needed.
Consider visa runs to nearby countries like Jordan, Turkey, or Cyprus.

4. Adjust to Local Culture and Lifestyle

Egyptians are friendly but social norms may be different from what you’re used to.
Bargaining is common in markets—don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
Dress modestly in certain areas, especially outside tourist hotspots.

5. Explore Beyond the Big Cities

Cairo and Alexandria are exciting, but places like Dahab and Hurghada offer a more relaxed, beachside lifestyle.
Try living in different cities to find the vibe that suits you best.

The Bottom Line

Egypt offers a mix of challenges and rewards for digital nomads. If you’re looking for an affordable, culturally rich, and adventurous place to base yourself, it’s a fantastic option. Just be prepared for unpredictable internet, visa extensions, and cultural differences—if you can handle that, Egypt might be the perfect digital nomad destination for you.