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When you explore Egypt's world-famous historical sites, walk the golden sandy beaches with fabulous ocean views that span across the Mediterranean, cruise down the Nile, hike Mount Catherine trail, breathe the crisp Red Sea air, or explore the home of some of the best coral reefs to be found. The magic is intangible, but you’ll swear that the magic is all around you. Read More ...

Cairo Ranks

#1 in Best Places to Visit in Africa & The Middle East by U.S. News & World Report.

Vistors flock to Egypt's capital to explore the wonders of the ancient world, following the footsteps of the pharaohs. But there are two sides to Cairo; the city's residents. embrace Their history and rejoice in their progress. The ancient pyramids of Giza, Dahshur and Saqqara fight with the trendy bars of the Zamalek and Heliopolis neighborhoods for spotlight. The only way to get a true sense of Cairo is to take the old with the new. Select and book your day tour now.

Long stay vacation in El Quseir

Nile valley & marsa alam beach.

13 Days / 12 Nights

Cairo*Nile Cruise*Aswan*Luxor*Marsa Alam

Dendera from Luxor

Movenpick royal lily & lotus nile cruises.

4 nights/Luxor & 3 nights/Aswan

Luxor , Aswan

Ancient Egypt & Nubia Tour

10 Days / 09 Nights

Cairo*Nile Cruise*Dendera*Abydos

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Egypt best seller & nile cruises, luxury holidays, domestic day excursion, classic tours, long stay holiday packages, hot offers & deals, egypt nile cruises, spiritual tours, egypt day tours, family and teens tours, egypt shore excursions, egypt desert safari, red sea holidays, airport transfers & transport, stopovers/ short stay, why misr travel.

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4 Days/3 Nights Cairo Tour

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Cairo, Luxor & Aswan Tour

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Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Abu Simbel Tour

Pyramids Trip from Cairo Day Trip

Grand Egyptian Museum & Pyramids of Giza Day Trip

Fayoum Oasis from Cairo Day Trip

Coptic Cairo Day Trip

Islamic Cairo Day Trip

Go to ancient places.

The Great Pyramids

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• Explore Ancient Ruins & Tombs
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Visit Egypt News

Discover alexandria: egypt’s jewel of the mediterranean.

A Day in the Life of an Egyptian Local

Top 10 Unique Things to Do in Egypt: Beyond the Classics

Exploring Egypt: Upcoming Events and Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss

Discover Egypt: Detailed Guides to Top Destinations

Essential Travel Tips for Your Egyptian Adventure

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Swim in Stunning Shades of Blue

Explore Unforgettable Landscapes

Relive History

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Where to Go

Pick your destination and start your Egypt experience now

The Red Sea

Deserts & Oases

Don't Miss

SAIL TO EGYPT

Hidden Gems

Luxor Temple at night, statues cast their mysterious shadows.

Luxor Temple at night

Eel Garden, Dahab, an underwater garden of eels and pufferfish

Blue Lagoon, Abu Galum, a global kitesurfing spot.

The Blue Lagoon

Colored Canyon, Nuweiba, a natural work of art on limestone walls.

The Colored Canyon

Experience what Egypt has to offer

SUN & SEA

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

SPIRITUAL EGYPT

CRUISING & SAILING

ADVENTURE & OUTDOOR

ECOTOURISM & NATURE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ARTS & CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

Insider picks.

Grab a plate of koshary, one of Egypt’s many vegan-friendly national dishes.

Indulge in a traditional Egyptian country breakfast of feteer (flaky layered pastry) in Fayoum.

Enjoy unforgettable views of the Pyramids Plateau and other ancient monuments on horseback.

Explore villages near the archaeological sites of Giza for handmade artisanal crafts.

What's On

Egypt International Boat Show

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Latest update

Reconsider your need to travel to Egypt overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Other levels apply in some areas.

Egypt (PDF 261.26 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services.

Call 180 or 123.

Medical emergencies

Call 122, 123 or contact the local police.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to Egypt overall.

Do not travel to within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya, the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road.

Do not travel to:

• within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya due to the high risk of terrorist attack
• the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road due to the high risk of terrorist attack and violent crime.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sharm El Sheikh.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sharm El Sheikh due to the risk of terrorist attack.

• Ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.
• Increased tensions in the Middle East may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions, and other travel disruptions. 

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai.

• The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access which is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.
• Terrorists have attacked popular tourist locations, resulting in deaths and injuries. More attacks are likely. Be alert to possible threats.
• Terrorist groups in Egypt have targeted Christians in the past. Take care, particularly during major religious periods and at religious sites.
• You're at risk of kidnapping in Egypt. Take extra precautions. 
• Violent crime can happen. Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Don't leave valuables unsecured in your hotel room or unattended in a public place. 
• Women, particularly foreigners, are frequently subject to unwelcome male attention.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, filariasis and rabies. Only drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid contact with dogs and cats.
• Don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis).
• Dengue and malaria are present. Use insect repellent and make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Cairo can have very high levels of pollution and dust. If you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition, seek medical advice before travel.

Full travel advice: Health

• Making public comments that criticise the Egyptian government, security forces, or Islam can be illegal. Police have arrested foreign visitors who posted critical social media.
• There are severe consequences for carrying illegal drugs, including the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.
• You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt. Apply to the  Ministry of Communications and Information Technology  before you leave. The use of drones is illegal.
• Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law. Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including on family and business legal matters.
• Although same-sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised in Egypt, the charge of 'debauchery' has been used to prosecute LGBTQIA+ people. There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt. Avoid any public displays of affection. 
• Sex outside of marriage is illegal. Dress standards are very conservative, particularly for women. Wear modest clothes that cover your legs and upper arms.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Egypt for the latest details.
• Foreign journalists need accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre before arrival. There are severe punishments for journalists working without accreditation.
• There are landmines in some areas. Get advice from local authorities before you travel.
• Australian-Egyptian dual nationals are treated as Egyptian. This will limit your access to consular assistance. Always travel on your  Australian passport  if possible. This doesn't mean you will receive special treatment in terms of local law.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Although the greatest terrorist threat is in North Sinai, terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in Egypt. Potential targets include:

• religious sites 
• tourist locations

Terrorist groups have targeted Christians and their places of worship in the past. 

Take particular care:

• during major religious periods
• at holiday festivals
• at religious observances
• at religious sites

In the past, terrorists have attacked several popular tourist locations. People have been killed or injured.

Most tourist sites and places of worship have a strong security presence. Previous attacks have included:

• 30 December 2022: an attack targeting security forces in the city of Ismailia, west of the Suez Canal.
• 4 August 2019: at least 20 people were killed by a car bomb in central Cairo.
• May 2019 and December 2018: bomb attacks on tour buses near the Giza pyramids killed and injured foreign tourists and a local tour guide.

More attacks are likely.

Previously, terrorists have set off small explosions in Cairo and throughout Egypt. People have been killed and injured, including bystanders. The attacks usually target security forces at:

• government buildings
• police facilities and checkpoints
• metro stations and trains
• universities

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• embassies and polling places
• hotels, holiday resorts, clubs, restaurants and bars
• banks, markets, shopping centres, supermarkets, cinemas and theatres
• schools and places of worship
• public transport, shipping ports and other infrastructure
• outdoor recreation events, commercial, public and tourist areas

The greatest terrorist threat is in the Northern Sinai, where militant groups operate more freely. However, terrorists are active in other parts of Sinai and mainland Egypt, including Cairo.

Cooperate fully with security officials at airports and observe any additional security measures.

Sinai Province of the Islamic State and other extremist groups have made threats using social media and online statements. Their threats target Western nationals, institutions, and businesses in Egypt.

To reduce your risk of being a victim of terrorism, be alert to possible threats, especially:

• at tourist locations, religious sites, and crowded public places
• near police checkpoints and government buildings

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• consider the level of security at places you plan to visit
• have a clear exit plan in case of a security incident
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe to. Continue to avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

South Sinai

Attacks in South Sinai have included suicide bombings. Terrorists have also kidnapped foreign nationals.

Many bombings directly targeted tourists and their transport.

If you travel to South Sinai:

• avoid road travel outside of Sharm El Sheikh
• allow extra time to clear airport security
• contact your airline or travel agent for concerns about the security or safety of aircraft servicing Sharm El Sheikh
• have contingency plans and personal security measures in place

Governorate of North Sinai

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road. Do not travel to North Sinai.

Terrorists or criminals could target you, or you might be included in violence directed at others.

North Sinai is under a long-term state of emergency.

In North Sinai:

• terrorist attacks occur frequently
• many personnel from Egyptian security forces have died
• a dusk-to-dawn curfew is in place from 7pm to 6am

The border crossing to Gaza at Rafah is closed most of the time. It's only open for short periods on an irregular basis. See  Travel

There's a high risk of  kidnapping  in North Sinai.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to North Sinai:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange contingency plans and personal security measures
• note that our ability to provide consular assistance may be extremely limited

More information:

Security Situation

The situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions and the security situation could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. Peaceful protests and rallies can turn violent at short notice. Be aware, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria.   A third tourist was injured.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.     

Since October 2023, suspected drones and projectiles have impacted areas along the Gulf of Aqaba, including in Taba, close to Egypt's border with Israel's Red Sea port of Eilat, and in the Red Sea resort town of Nuweiba, north of Dahab. Be alert to possible strikes. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Be alert and monitor local media for updates.

Demonstrations and protests

Protests can occur across Egypt. 

Clashes between rival protesters or security forces have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Foreigners, including journalists, have been among the victims. Serious  sexual assaults  on women, including foreigners, have occurred during demonstrations.

Security forces have targeted foreign journalists. Egyptian authorities have arrested, detained or questioned journalists.

Protest hotspots

Protests can happen anywhere and at any time, although strict security clampdowns have been preventing protests in recent years. However, the following places and times are common focal points for demonstrations:

• Tahrir Square and surrounding streets, including the nearby British and US Embassies and Garden City area, in Cairo
• the al-Ittihadiya Presidential Palace in Heliopolis, Giza
• the area of the Raba Al-Adawiya Square in Nasr City
• Fridays following midday prayers
• the anniversary of the 2011 revolution on 25 January and the days leading up to this public holiday

Under Egyptian law, it's illegal for:

• more than 10 people to gather without notice
• foreigners to participate in protests and demonstrations

Authorities may arrest foreigners who participate in protests.

Egyptian authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on movement at short notice.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, rallies and large crowds
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• obey any curfews and respect local laws
• be prepared to change your travel plans

Protests may disrupt transport. Contact your airline or travel agent to check.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare but can occur, including  armed robbery ,  sexual assault , incidents involving minors, carjacking and burglary.

Petty crime remains low in Cairo, although the declining economy and ensuing financial hardship have seen reports of increased crime.

Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Women may be physically and verbally harassed or  assaulted , including when using public transport and walking in public areas.

Ensure children and young people are always accompanied by known or trusted people and not left alone with hotel or entertainment/excursion staff. If you feel uncomfortable, leave the area and seek help from the hotel or local authorities. The Tourist Police can be contacted on 126 or 122 if you're a resident of Egypt.  

Taxi and rideshare drivers have assaulted passengers, including foreigners. See  Travel

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• don't leave valuables outside a safe in your hotel room or unattended in a public place
• be alert to pickpockets and bag snatchers in tourist areas, particularly after dark
• read  reducing the risk of sexual assault  before you go

If you're the victim of a crime, report the incident to the tourist police immediately.

If you don't report a crime before you leave, you may not be able to seek prosecution later.

• Advice for women

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Kidnapping is a risk in Egypt. Terrorists have targeted foreign nationals. There is a high threat of terrorist kidnappings in South and North Sinai. Terrorist attacks occur frequently in these areas.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. 

To reduce the risk of kidnapping: 

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings 
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk 
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures 
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone 
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location 
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs 
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours 
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:  

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check tours are well equipped with food, medical supplies and emergency communications
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Safaris and camping

Authorities have banned safaris and camping in the area near Bahariya Oasis until further notice. This includes the western and southern parts of Oases–Siwa and Oases Road.

It doesn't include the White Desert in Farafra. However, restrictions applying to Bahriya Oasis may disrupt access.

Climate and natural disasters

Egypt, particularly Cairo, experiences earthquakes . Find out about local safety procedures in case one strikes.

Sand and dust storms occur between March and May.

If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Find out about emerging natural disasters from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Egypt. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

• Infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases, such as  bilharzia (schistosomiasis)  (World Health Organization)
• avoid contact with dogs and cats

Get urgent medical attention if bitten by an animal.

Insect-borne diseases

There's a risk of  malaria  (World Health Organization) in El Faiyum Governorate from June through to October.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Air pollution

Cairo regularly experiences very high levels of air pollution and dust.

Get medical advice if you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition.

• Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency Air Quality Forecast

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Cairo is enough for routine illnesses. Elsewhere, facilities can be very basic. Treatment can also be costly. Many require up-front payment.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and hard to organise. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover the costs.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Criticising authority

Authorities may treat public comments that criticise the Egyptian Government, security forces or Islam as illegal. Police have arrested foreigners who published critical social media posts, including 'liking' pages.

Possessing illegal drugs can lead to the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.

• Carrying or using drugs

Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law, particularly in relation to divorce, child custody and support.

Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including for family and business legal matters.

It's important to know your rights and responsibilities under Egyptian law. See  Travel

Marriage laws

If you want to get married in Egypt, check the legal requirements before you travel. You can do this either through the  Australian Embassy in Cairo  or the  Egyptian Embassy in Canberra .

In Egypt, it's illegal to:

• have sexual relations outside marriage
• take photos of bridges and canals, including the Suez Canal
• take photos of military personnel, buildings or equipment

The Egyptian Government doesn't interfere with the practice of Christianity, but preaching is illegal. If you're considering preaching in Egypt, seek local legal advice beforehand. Follow the advice of local authorities. 

LGBTQIA+ laws

LGBTQIA+ individuals face significant social stigma and discrimination in Egypt. Egyptian law does not explicitly criminalise same-sex relationships, however, people have been charged with 'committing an indecent act in public and breaching public morality' and penalised with imprisonment. 

LGBTQIA+ people and advocacy groups have reported harassment, intimidation, arrests, and other forms of abuse, including by police. 

There are also reports that authorities have used social media, dating websites, and mobile phone apps to entrap people suspected of being gay or transgender in the act of 'debauchery,' which is a criminal offence that carries severe sentences. 

There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

If you're an Australian-Egyptian dual national, local authorities will treat you as an Egyptian, even if you travel on an Australian passport.

This limits our consular services if you're arrested or detained.

If possible, always travel on your  Australian passport .

Dual nationals living in Egypt for long periods need proof of Egyptian citizenship, such as a national identification card.

Male dual nationals who haven't completed military service usually don't need to enlist. However, they must get an exemption certificate before they can leave Egypt. Get one from the nearest  Egyptian embassy, consulate , or Ministry of Defence Draft Office.

If you're arrested, request local authorities inform the Australian Embassy.

Dual nationals

Local customs

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Egypt. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or in front of people who are fasting.

Orthodox Easter is observed by the Christian community, as is Christmas Day, which is celebrated on 7 January in Egypt.

The work week is Sunday to Thursday. Egypt's customs, laws, and regulations follow Islamic practices and beliefs. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour.

Dress conservatively. Knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable for women, and men should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Egyptian culture.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate   of Egypt for the latest details. To pay for a tourist visa on entry, you must have a non-Egyptian credit card or US dollars in cash.  Bring the required amount, as ATMs may not disperse USD or other foreign currency.

Check with your travel provider for the latest information and monitor the travel advice of the country you're planning to transit through. There are no direct flights to Australia, but there are flights via a transit hub to Australia.

• Egypt Electronic Visa Portal

Children of Egyptian fathers must have their father's approval to leave Egypt. Authorities may ask for proof of this approval before allowing the children to leave.

Other formalities

Journalist accreditation.

Foreign journalists must get accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre  before arrival. You need this if your visit is for work purposes. The Press Centre is part of the Egyptian State Information Service.

Punishments are severe for journalists working without accreditation.

Communications equipment and drones

You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt.

Apply to Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology well in advance of your trip. Authorities are likely to confiscate equipment brought in without clearance.

The use of drones, for any purpose, is illegal. Authorities will confiscate drones on arrival.

Pest control

If you arrive in Egypt by road, officials may check your car for pests. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Egypt if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is widespread.

Countries where yellow fever is a risk

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the  nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

You can take up to EGP 5000 in cash when travelling to or from Egypt.

You must declare all foreign currency amounts over $US 10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you're visiting as a tourist, you may need to pay $US or euros for your accommodation. Most well-established hotels and resorts accept card payments. ATMs are available in most established areas.

Consult your financial institution prior to your travel.

Embassy or Consulate of Egypt

Local travel

Consider the security situation and risks to your safety in different locations. See  Safety

There are landmines in some areas, notably:

• the desert areas around El Alamein
• stretches of coastline near Marsa Matruh
• the western shore of the Gulf of Suez
• the Sinai Peninsula

Before you go, tell local authorities of your planned travel. Ask them about current risks and precautions for your route and destination.

Travel restrictions and disruptions

If you travel around Egypt, you may be stopped at military and civilian checkpoints. Officials at checkpoints have detained and harassed foreigners.

Rules apply to people entering the Sinai, including via the Ahmed Hamdi tunnel. When you enter, you must present one of the following:

• a valid form of ID with a Sinai address
• proof of ownership or rental contracts of property in the Sinai
• hard copy evidence of hotel reservations

Travel to the Sinai in a 4WD vehicle may be restricted if you don't hold a valid permit. Check the advice of local authorities before travel. 

Land borders

Egypt's borders are under military control.

The military restricts and, in some cases, bans the movement of civilians and vehicles.

You need permission to cross borders on the main sealed roads, including at the borders with Libya, Sudan, Israel and parts of the Sinai. Get permission from the Travel Permits Department of the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior.

If, despite our advice, you plan to cross from Egypt into the Gaza strip:

• read our advice on  Israel, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank
• check border crossing requirements with your nearest  Egyptian embassy  or the Ministry of the Interior in Cairo

You must get permission from Egyptian authorities to enter and exit the Gaza Strip using the Rafah border crossing.

If you enter the Gaza Strip through this border, you must leave the same way.

You may be delayed in the Gaza Strip for a long time, possibly weeks while waiting for approval to return.

The Australian Government can't influence the granting of approval or when the crossing will open. Our ability to provide consular help in Gaza is extremely limited.

Other borders

Road travel to Abu Simbel, 40km north of the Sudanese border, can be dangerous. If you do, go on an organised tour guarded by police escorts.

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya. Deadly attacks have occurred in the area.

Driving permit

You can't drive in Egypt on your Australian driver's licence.

Before arriving in Egypt, get an international driver's permit and get an  embassy or consulate of Egypt  to certify it.

Road travel

Road travel can be dangerous. 

Road conditions are very poor. Cars, buses and trucks frequently drive at high speed and without headlights at night.

Road accidents occur often.

Where possible, avoid travelling by road. Visit regional places, including Luxor, by other means.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Take extra care if you plan to ride a motorbike. Be alert to the different road conditions.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and Rideshare

Cairo and Alexandria have a lot of taxis. Rideshare services are available in Cairo and Alexandria.

In Cairo, taxis are white. In Alexandria, taxis are black and yellow.

All taxis should have a meter. The law requires drivers to use their meters. However, many taxi drivers will claim that the meter is broken and try to negotiate a fare.

Taxis rarely have seatbelts, especially in the back seats. 

Sexual harassment of women by taxi drivers is common.

Avoid taxis, especially if you're a woman and on your own. Ride share apps may be safer as you can track your driver's details and share the trip details with others.

If you use a taxi, travel with people you know or advise others of your planned travel and destination.

Public transport

The Cairo Metro subway system is generally reliable.

Maintenance and safety standards of other public road and rail transport are very poor.

• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

Train travel is generally safe, but accidents do occur.

In March and April 2021, two train accidents occurred in North and South Egypt. The accidents caused many deaths and injuries.

There have been a number of train derailments on the Cairo-Aswan line. Several people were injured when a train derailed between Aswan and Luxor in 2016.

Piracy  and  armed robbery  are risks in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

All forms of shipping are attractive targets for pirates. This includes commercial vessels, pleasure craft and luxury cruise liners.

The  International Maritime Bureau  issues piracy reports.

If you plan to  travel by boat , be highly alert and cautious in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Scuba diving / aquatic activities

Sharks and other potentially dangerous aquatic animals are in Egyptian waters. Certain beaches and dive areas may be subject to temporary closures. Exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities. Ensure you dive with reputable and licensed operators.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Egypt's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Cairo

11th floor, World Trade Centre 1191 Corniche el Nil Boulac, Cairo, Egypt

Phone: +20 2 2770 6600 Fax: +20 2 2770 6650 Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia in Egypt X: @AusAmbEGY

The Australian Embassy in Cairo operates on Sunday – Thursday.

The security situation may affect Embassy opening hours. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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• Requirements for travel to Egypt
• Plan your trip to Egypt

Egypt remains a tourist destination that captivates millions of people for its history , archaeological wealth and landscapes. If you are planning a trip to the country, in this article we tell you what is needed to travel to Egypt, so that you can organize your vacation in the best possible way.

Documentation for travel to Egypt

For residents of the european union.

To enter Egypt traveling from any of the EU member countries, the documentation you will need is a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months and, in addition, you will need to apply for a visa.

How to obtain a visa to Egypt?

It can be obtained directly upon arrival at the airport in the easiest way, or online from the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

For citizens from non-European Union countries

The best option is to inquire at the relevant Egyptian embassy or consulate. In both cases, especially if you have contracted a trip through an agency, it is advisable to ask the same company that organizes the trip to also arrange visas for tourists.

With the exception of some Arab countries, all persons wishing to visit Egypt must apply for a tourist visa, which costs US$25 and is valid for 30 days. For longer stays, a special visa can be requested in advance or extended within the country. How to pay for a visa to Egypt? Payment can be made in dollars and also in euros or pounds sterling.

Vaccinations and health insurance

In these times of COVID-19 pandemic, to enter Egypt it is mandatory to present the complete vaccination schedule.

Visit the Egypt travel recommendations page of your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Other diseases

No other vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Egypt , although it is recommended to check the status of standard vaccinations in case a booster against mumps, rubella, measles, diphtheria, typhoid or tetanus is necessary.

It should be noted that, for a Western traveler, the level of hygiene in Egypt may be low or insufficient, so it is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly before and after eating in each restaurant. And avoid drinking tap water, always opt for bottled water. In the capital, Cairo , it is the only place where there is no risk from drinking tap water, as it is treated with a lot of chlorine. In the rest of the country, tap water should be avoided at all costs. The good news is that bottled water is very cheap in Egypt.

Take out travel medical insurance

Regarding medical insurance for travelers, it is essential to contract one before traveling to Egypt because it is usually a requirement to enter the country and to be treated within the private health system. The recommended travel insurance for travel to Egypt is any insurance that covers not only medical problems but also theft and loss, to travel with more peace of mind.

If you go to Alexandria or to the shores of the Red Sea If you go scuba diving, or travel to Egypt for hiking or motorcycle riding, all of these are classified as “dangerous activities” and many health insurances do not cover them, so you should pay close attention and if you are going to do any of these activities, try to take out an insurance policy that covers them. You should also check or ask if the policy covers medications or ambulance transfers.

Internet connection in Egypt

It is becoming easier and easier to find free WiFi connection in hotels, cruise ships and restaurants in Egypt, especially since it is the second country in the world with the largest number of undersea fiber optic cables. This is due to its strategic geographical position as the main route connecting Asia, the Middle East and East Africa with Europe. However, there is still a long way to go before all historical sites, monuments and archaeological sites have a good free public WiFi connection. So, if you need constant internet during your trip to Egypt, the best options for mobile data are SIM cards or eSIM cards.

There is also the option of activating the international roaming service or carrying Pocket WiFi (small portable routers that you carry in your pocket and provide internet connection) but both services are usually much more expensive than the cards.

The average price of a SIM card for Egypt with 3G or 4G for 15 days ranges between 35€ and 47€, a price range similar to that of an eSIM card for 8 days. Vodafone’s roaming service costs 105€ for 14GB for 7 days, while Orange’s 700 MB for one week costs 49€. The rental of Pocket WiFi for 7 days costs between 60€ and 70€, excluding shipping costs which can be between 20€ and 25€.

How to manage money in Egypt

The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). The average daily expenditure per tourist per day is estimated at around 600 EGP , including lodging, food, internal transportation and excursions, although this may vary slightly depending on the type of services contracted.

It is recommended to always have enough change on hand to pay for cabs and tipping. There are a good number of ATMs in almost all Egyptian cities, with the exception of areas in the interior of Middle Egypt and in the oases. Mid- and high-priced hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, with a sales rate ranging from 3% to 10%.

If you need to change currency in Egypt, you can do it officially at Amex and Travel Choice Egypt offices, and also in commercial banks, exchange offices (Forex) and even in some hotels. Rates are generally similar in all establishments, although some places may charge commissions.

We have more information about the Egyptian pound and various indicative prices of the most typical products and purchases that you will make on your trip.

What is required to enter and exit Egypt

Entry to egypt via airport.

To enter Egypt as a tourist, two basic requirements are necessary: a valid passport and a visa.

Passengers are also usually checked to see if they have any supporting documentation from the lodging establishment, as well as confirmation of an organized tour reservation with the corresponding itinerary and return ticket date.

Airport round trip

To leave Egypt and return to your country of origin, the airport control is similar to the entry control, with the addition of the customs check of products purchased by the tourist as souvenirs The products must not violate any international standard of suspected smuggling or infringe bromatology laws, in the case of edible products.

Covid-19 Pandemic Specific Measures and Restrictions

During the Covid-19 pandemic, some specific rules for entry and exit were added. And although prevention measures in Egypt were carried out with considerable discipline, the various waves of contagion could not be avoided. Therefore, we recommend you to travel with an FPP2 mask during your trip to Egypt, at least in situations of higher risk (if you decide to move by yourself and travel by metro or cab, for example), although it is not mandatory to do so. Current medical insurances usually include expenses derived from complications, tests or any other incident involving Covid-19.

Previously, upon arrival in the country, the temperature of each tourist was checked and a certificate of vaccination against Covid-19 was requested, and a negative PCR test was not mandatory for entry. However, as of June 17, 2022, Egypt lifted all restrictions for any international traveler, no vaccination certificate or PCR or antigen test is required .

As always, we recommend that you check a few days before your trip in case conditions change.

Other articles that may interest you...

The answer is yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to Egypt. Of course, you will have to take the

How to move

The means of transportation in Egypt are very varied, especially in the big cities like Cairo, Alexandria or Aswan where

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

North Sinai

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.

The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal.

Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• the Governorate of Faiyum
• the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
• the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• the oasis town of Siwa
• the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
• the road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in neighbouring Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs)

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. Check with local authorities and consult the travel advice for  Israel  and the  Occupied Palestinian Territories  before trying to cross the border.

In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See  Safety and security

Entering Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact Embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the  Israel and The Occupied Palestinian Territories travel advice.

The Egyptian authorities have said all aid going into Gaza from Egypt must be channelled through the Egyptian Red Crescent:

• telephone: + 20 226 703 979, + 20 226 703 983
• fax: + 20 226 703 967

They are unlikely to consider requests for humanitarian access made in Egypt at short notice.

Concern for friends and family

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

• British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000
• +44 1767 667 600  (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Incidents in South Sinai  

On 27 October, an Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson confirmed that an unidentified drone fell near a medical facility in the Egyptian Red Sea resort town of Taba next to the Israeli border, injuring six people. An additional unidentified drone also struck outside the town of Nuweiba, though no casualties have been confirmed. The authorities are conducting ongoing investigations.

Incident in Alexandria

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured. Remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings. Find out more information on current risks on the  Safety and security .

Border crossings from Sudan

There are still people trying to cross the border into Egypt at Argeen and Qustul. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for consular assistance on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Home > Egypt Blog > Navigating Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Egypt

Navigating Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Egypt

What is the Entry to Egypt Requirements? Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt? How to get to Egypt?

All these main questions revolve around the mind of the traveler to Egypt to know Entry to Egypt Requirements. Egypt, “the country of the pharaohs,” is one of the countries you can visit now, and it is the most famous travel destination in the world.

We at Egypt Planners provide you with all the practical and up-to-date information you need to fulfill your dream of seeing the pyramids up close.

Egypt has a rich history that always surprises those who go there. Before you can plan a trip to Egypt, you should know the rules for entering the country. First, you should find out if you need a visa to go to Egypt.

We wrote this article, especially for people who want to go to Egypt. We know that people have many questions about Egypt before going there.

After reading this complete guide, you will not have any questions about all the entry restrictions, requirements, and documents that must be taken to know how to get to Egypt And the conditions for travel to Egypt.

What Essential Entry to Egypt Requirements?

A passport and a visa are among the requirements for travel and entry to Egypt.

1- Passport

Like many other countries, Egypt requires visitors to have a valid passport and sufficient blank pages to accommodate entry and exit stamps.

Visitors to Egypt must bring two passport photos and a current electronic identification card for at least six months to enter the country (in the absence of an unissued visa).

The Egyptian government will not accept an extension of a national identity card in the form of a paper voucher. Instead, you should ensure you have a valid passport and check with your country’s embassy, consulate, or travel agent for the most recent information on the law.

Satisfy your sense of adventure with our thrilling Egypt Safari Tours . Act now to reserve your spot on this wild journey!

You must have a visa to enter Egypt, and the only place you can get one if you have an ordinary passport is at the airport where you plan to enter the country.

You are only permitted one entry with this regular Visa, but you can stay for thirty days. It is approximately twenty-five dollars, the same amount in euros or Egyptian pounds.

People who only plan to stay in Sinai and enter Egypt directly through South Sinai (Sharm El-Sheikh, St. Catherine, or Taba airports, or from Israel via the Taba border crossing) can get a free 15-day visa.

If your trip starts in Sinai and you want to go to other parts of Egypt after you leave the Sinai Peninsula, you must get the regular Visa described above.

Travelers who come to Egypt by land or sea are strongly encouraged to get a visa of origin from the Egyptian Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

If you are going to or from Egypt through more than one country, you must get a visa that lets you enter and leave the country more than once.

Staying in Egyptian territory beyond the validity of the granted Visa constitutes a crime that can lead to harsh penalties. In this case, the local immigration authorities make the final decision.

There is no way for diplomats and consular officials from other countries to take part in a decision like this caused by a sovereign nation.

If you stay in Egypt longer than your Visa lets you, you are breaking the law and could be punished severely.

Before going to Egypt, people should contact accredited Egyptian diplomatic and consular authorities who can help them get all the necessary information and documents.

To get a tourist visa online, you only had to fill out the form and upload the following documents:

• A passport is valid for at least eight months from entry into the country.
• Visa fees can be paid with a credit or debit card.
• A valid email address so the Visa can be sent to that address.

It is possible to obtain a visa electronically seven days before the departure date at the following Link http://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg .

Types of Visa

The First Type of Visa (Long Terms Visa)

There are residence visas for people who want to stay for a long time for reasons other than tourism, like work, school, or other reasons. It is a visa for a long-term stay.

So, you can choose between visas that let you live there for one, three, or five years. You must have a valid entry visa before starting the residence visa process to avoid problems.

You should know that the government of Egypt can only tell you who is eligible and what kind of permit you should get.

Uncover the mysteries of Egypt’s ancient wonders with our Egypt Pyramids Tour Packages . Secure your spot on this historical journey today!

The second type of Visa (Tourist Visa)

It is the Tourist Visa that all tourists from all over the world need to visit Egypt. The tourist visa is good for one month after you arrive in Egypt, and you can only use it to travel within three months of the date you leave the country.

To get your entry visa quickly, don’t forget that your passport must be valid for at least six months. A tourist visa could be for one trip or more than one.

You should know that a single entry visa can only be used once. If you leave the country and want to return, you must apply for a new visa. Also, if you’re going to stay longer for tourism, you can renew this Visa.

An Electronic Visa ( Online Visa )

The Egypt Online Visa, or Egypt e-Visa, is an electronic travel authorization system for citizens of eligible countries who wish to travel to Egypt for tourism.

Unlike other visas, the Egypt e-Visa can be easily obtained through an online application without going to the Egyptian embassy.

The main objective of the e-Visa for Egypt is to simplify the travel authorization process for foreigners who visit Egypt. This fully online system speeds up the Egyptian visa application process.

The Egypt e-Visa is a single or multiple-entry visa :

• The Egyptian Single Entry e-Visa allows its holder to enter Egypt once, and the stay must be less than 30 days in 3 months.
• The multiple-entry e-Visa allows a maximum of 30 days for each entry into Egypt (in 6 months ).
• To apply for a tourist visa to Egypt, the applicant must complete the online application for a permit for Egypt. Once this procedure is completed, the tourist will receive the approval for his e-Visa by email.

If I am in transit through Egypt, do I need a visa to Entry into Egypt?

If your stop or transit time is less than 48 hours, you won’t need any of these (you must show the ticket for your subsequent flight). You might be able to leave the airport, but you’ll have to give your passport to someone.

If you have less than 6 hours to wait, you can leave the airport but not the transit area.

It only applies to people from Iran, who always need a transit visa, or Afghanistan, Lebanon, Palestine, and the Philippines, who must always stay in the transit area.

Are there any mandatory vaccinations for Entry into Egypt?

Practically about compulsory vaccinations: a vaccination certificate against yellow fever is required from travelers over one year and from risk areas, such as some Sub-Saharan or West African countries.

This procedure is done only for the health and safety of our travelers from any morning; for this reason, we kindly ask you to follow these procedures to make a fantastic and safe holiday.

In terms of mandatory vaccinations, anyone over the age of one from a risk area, such as some countries in Sub-Saharan or West Africa, must show proof that they have been vaccinated against yellow fever.

This process is only done to protect the health and safety of our travelers from the first morning on. Please follow these steps to have a great and safe vacation.

In addition to the ones that are required, it is strongly recommended that you get the following vaccinations:

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella)

Tips Before Organizing a Trip to Egypt

Here’re our recommendations:

• Respect and keep up with the culture and act in a way that fits the area.
• Never take a picture of a police or military building.
• Stay away from crowds and don’t take part in events.
• Don’t go on trips without a guide and a skilled driver.
• Wear clothes that don’t make you look too good and that cover up as much as possible (both men and women). Especially if you want to go to a mosque, wear the right clothes.
• Be especially careful around religious holidays like Easter and Ramadan.
• Put your passport in a safe deposit box and carry only a copy.
• Don’t go anywhere without getting the recommended shots and getting travel insurance.
• Don’t take corals out of the Red Sea, and don’t touch them. Even a tiny bump can hurt them.
• You can get a meager price in markets or bazaars if you bargain.
• Use water from a bottle.
• Try one of Egypt’s most delicious dishes, like kebab, baba ganoush, or tabbouleh.
• Carry a first-aid kit with headache and stomach pain medicine in it.
• Choose the best Nile River Cruise for you, such as a deluxe Nile cruise , a standard Nile cruise, a luxury Nile cruise .
• The tour guide is one of the essential parts of a Nile River Cruise. Between Luxor and Aswan, the tour guide will tell you about some fantastic things that happened in ancient Egypt.

Frequently asked questions about travel documents to Egypt

What currency is there in egypt.

The Egyptian Pound is the country’s official currency (LE), called “Geneah” in Arabic Word. One pound is 100 piasters or 1000 millims. There are banknotes with 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 LE, and Egypt is a relatively inexpensive country.

During your round-trip in Egypt, you can pay with a credit card, which is accepted at most tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. It would be best if you also brought cash with you.

You can also get cash from many places in Egypt using your bank card. Most bank cards can be used at several ATMs in larger cities and tourist areas. These banks provide this service: Banque Masr , CIB, Egyptian American Bank, and HSBC.

Can you travel to Egypt despite the Coronavirus?

Yes, today, it is one of the countries open to tourism.

Are there requirements to travel to Egypt due to COVID-19?

No, there are no longer any requirements for going to Egypt because of the pandemic, which ended on June 17. Because of how the disease spreads, it is highly recommended that people in Egypt get health insurance that covers Coronavirus.

Is a visa required to travel to Egypt?

Yes, but there is a straightforward way to get it; you can do this when you get to the airport or online at least seven days before your flight. It will cost $25.

What are the documents required to travel to Egypt?

In addition to the Visa, you will need to bring your passport (which must be valid for at least another six months after the end of your trip), an international vaccination certificate proving that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever if you are traveling from a country where there is a risk of contracting the disease while traveling, your itinerary, and a reservation at a hotel.

Are there Egypt Entry Requirements covid?

No, you won’t have to get yellow fever shot unless you come from an area where the disease is expected or will be in an airport in a country where the infection could spread for more than 12 hours.

But going to the International Vaccination Center ahead of time is best.

We hope this guide to the documents and requirements you need to travel to Egypt has answered your questions and helped you prepare for your trip to this ancient country. We’ll answer any questions you have in the comments.

Passengers who want to fly to Egypt must not take a COVID-19 test. On June 17, 2022, Egypt no longer had COVID-19 entry restrictions. Before, people who wanted to fly but didn’t have a valid vaccination certificate had to take a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test.

How do you bring your animals with you to Egypt?

If you want to bring a pet to Egypt, you must have proof that it has been vaccinated against rabies and is in good health. A veterinarian must give this in the country of origin.

What are customs checks?

Regarding customs control, there are also restrictions on alcoholic beverages and cigarettes: it is prohibited to bring more than one bottle of alcohol (soft or super) and one pack of cigarettes with you; however, within twenty-four hours of entering the country, visitors are permitted to purchase up to three additional bottles of alcohol and three packs of cigarettes from authorized retailers. Anyone who goes beyond these limits may be subject to a penalty of up to 3000% of the original fee.

What clothes are recommended to take on a trip to Egypt?

It is recommended to wear clean, fresh clothes. Still, it is also essential to cover up as much of the body as possible, particularly women’s behavior, because Egyptian culture views this as a sign of disrespect.

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A practical guide to travel in Egypt, from tipping culture to independent touring

From packing tips to advice on haggling, here’s everything you need to know while planning your trip.

Whether you want to sail down the Nile on a felucca, explore ancient temples, browse the museums of Cairo or go trekking in Sinai, there are a few things to bear in mind when planning your trip to Egypt. Here’s what to be aware of when it comes to visas, tipping, guides and more.

Do I need a visa?

Almost all travellers, including visitors from the UK and the EU, need a visa to travel to Egypt. While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival, it saves time at the airport if you apply online in advance. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$25 (£20). If you plan to stay in the resort towns in Sinai for fewer than 15 days, you do not need a visa. Instead, you receive a ‘permission stamp’ in your passport when you land at Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport. While this option is a money saver, the list of places you’re permitted to visit is quite limited — even Ras Mohamed National Park at the southern tip of Sinai is off limits without the full visa.

What should I pack?

Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so it’s respectful for travellers to dress modestly. For all genders, this means covering everything between your shoulders and knees. You will likely be asked to cover up more if you visit a mosque or church.

The tap water is not safe to drink here so bring a water bottle with a filter, such as those from Lifestraw .

Wi-fi ranges from infuriatingly slow to nonexistent across the country, even at five-star hotels. Get mobile data through your service provider at home or buy an Egyptian SIM card when you land at the airport.

Can I pay by card in Egypt?

Cash reigns supreme but you can use a card at some higher-end hotels and restaurants. Take some Egyptian pounds out of a cash machine when you arrive, but be mindful of the fluctuating exchange rate and don’t take more out than you need. For bigger expenses, consider bringing US dollars, the most — and sometimes only — accepted foreign currency.

Tipping, called baksheesh, infiltrates almost every interaction you’ll have. It’s customary to tip nearly everyone you come in contact with, even for services you don’t want or require. Keep small change on hand for toilet attendants, porters, mosque caretakers and guards at temples and tombs.

Should I join a tour or travel independently?

Egypt has been a package-tour destination since the days of Thomas Cook, who first led a group to Egypt in 1869. The country is well set up for tour groups, and many first-time visitors find this option easiest, with guides and transport logistics arranged for you. Egypt’s historic sites have little signage, making a tour guide a necessity for deeper understanding.

Nile cruises generally run between Luxor and Aswan in both directions, but a few make the long journey from Cairo. Trains, planes and buses connect cities along the Nile, and buses or internal flights can take you to the Red Sea coast.

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Egypt Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Egypt. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio May 23, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Egypt.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Egypt. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Egypt.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Egypt, poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Egypt are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus if: 1) they work in health care settings involving direct patient contact, 2) assist in refugee camps or other humanitarian aid settings, OR 3) have limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation .

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Egypt who received a complete polio vaccination series as children, and are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus, may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Egypt.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Egypt, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Egypt, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Egypt. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Egypt include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Egypt. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Egypt’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Egypt may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Egypt, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Egypt for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Egypt Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Egypt

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Egypt entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to egypt, find stays in egypt, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

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Can I travel to Egypt from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Egypt.

Can I travel to Egypt if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Egypt without restrictions.

Can I travel to Egypt without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Egypt without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Egypt?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Egypt.

Can I travel to Egypt without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Egypt?

Mask usage in Egypt is required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Egypt?

Restaurants in Egypt are open. Bars in Egypt are .

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Latest Information for U.S. Citizens

Information for U.S. Citizens in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

The Department reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness as security incidents often take place without warning. The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events. Please see the latest Israel Security Alert .

U.S. citizens should heed the  Travel Advisory  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the dynamic security situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. There are active military operations and active rocket and mortar fire in Gaza and the Gaza periphery.  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. If you require emergency assistance while in Israel, the West Bank or Gaza, contact the  U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem  by email ( [email protected] for those in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza or [email protected] for those in Israel outside of Jerusaleml).

Individuals seeking to depart Gaza: As of May 7, the Israel Defense Forces control the Gaza side of the Rafah Crossing. Since that day, the Rafah Crossing between Egypt and Gaza has remained closed. As soon as the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem receives information regarding new exit procedures from Gaza to Egypt, including when crossings resume, we will communicate this to the public immediately.

This remains a complex situation with serious implications for the safety and security of U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens in Gaza in need of assistance should contact [email protected] . U.S. citizens in Gaza are reminded that the U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there.

The U.S. government does not control who is permitted to depart Gaza or enter Egypt. Individuals must assess their own safety and risks in attempting to cross the border. Individuals permitted to enter Egypt will likely receive a 72-hour Egyptian visa; all those who cross should have a plan for onward travel from Egypt in this timeframe. U.S. citizens, LPRs and their immediate family members who successfully enter Egypt and require further consular assistance should contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cairo  via the  U.S. Citizens Services Navigator .  Individuals may apply for a U.S. visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate; U.S. immigration laws and regulations will apply.

We continue to work in partnership with Egypt and Israel towards safe passage for U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their immediate family members.

Immediate family members of U.S. citizens include:

• unmarried children under the age of 21, and
• parents of U.S. citizens.

If the U.S. citizen is under 21, immediate family will also include any siblings who are also unmarried and under 21.

Immediate family members of LPRs include:

• unmarried children under 21 years of age.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

External Link

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Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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The 13 places you need a visa to travel with an American passport

I f you hold an American passport , you're likely used to traveling internationally with relative ease. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that many countries require Americans to jump through some hoops to visit in the form of obtaining a visa.

Beginning in January, 13 countries will issue American citizens a visa to visit as tourists. Note this list does not contain information regarding countries that the U.S. Department of State has advised U.S. citizens to refrain from traveling to by issuing Level 4 alerts. It also does not detail destinations that are not currently issuing visas for Americans.

Here's what you need to know.

Type: Australian Electronic Travel Authorization

How to apply: Online through the Australian government

Length of time: Valid for visits up to three months within a 12-month period

Processing time: Varies by application, but most are processed within 21 days

More information: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas or travel.state.gov

Related: Australia news

Type: Bolivia Tourist Visa

How to apply: Through the Bolivian Consulate . Residents of select states can apply in person at Bolivian Consulates in Washington, D.C., New York, Miami, Houston or Los Angeles. Alternatively, you can purchase a visa at any land or air border, per the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia .

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days for 90 days total in one year

Processing time: N/A

More information: boliviawdc.org/en-us , bo.usembassy.gov or travel.state.gov

Type: Brazil eVisa

How to apply: Online through VFS.Global

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 90 days for multiple entries over 10 years

Processing time: Five business days

More information: brazil.vfsevisa.com or travel.state.gov

Related reading: Brazil to require visas from Americans starting next month

Type: China Tourist Visa

How to apply: Online through the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs before submitting the application at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days over a 90-day period

Processing time: Four business days

More information: travel.state.gov or us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng

Read more: China news

Type: Egypt e-Visa

How to apply: Online through the Egyptian Ministry of Interior

Cost: $25 for a one-time entry, $60 for a multiple-entry visa

Processing time: Seven business days

More information: visa2egypt.gov.eg or travel.state.gov

Related: Update: Is it safe to travel to Israel, Egypt and the Middle East?

Type: Indian e-Visa

How to apply: Online through the Indian Bureau of Immigration

Length of time: Valid for visits up to 30 days over one year

Cost: $10-25, depending on time of visit

Processing time: 72 hours

More information: indianembassyusa.gov , indianvisaonline.gov , indiainnewyork.gov.in or travel.state.gov

Read more: India news

Type: Indonesia Visa On Arrival

How to apply: Online through the Indonesian government

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 30 days

More information: molina.imigrasi.go.id , id.usembassy.gov/visas/ or travel.state.gov

Related: Indonesia news

Type: Kenyan eVisa

How to apply: Online for a single-entry tourist visa through the Directorate of Immigration Services

Length of time: Valid for three months from the date of issuance

Processing time: Two business days

More information: evisa.go.ke or travel.state.gov

Type: Myanmar Tourist eVisa

How to apply: Online through Myanmar's Ministry of Immigration and Population

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 28 days, from 90 days of issuance

Processing time: Three business days

More information: evisa.moip.gov.mm or travel.state.gov

New Zealand

Type: New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)

How to apply: Online through New Zealand Immigration

Length of time: Valid for travel up to three months, from two years of issuance

More information: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/nzeta or https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/NewZealand.html#:~:text=U.S.%20citizens%20traveling%20to%20or,for%20up%20to%20two%20years

Related: New Zealand news

Type: Qatar Visa on arrival

How to apply: Upon arrival at the Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Length of time: Valid for 30 days, with both single and multiple-entry visas available

More information: visitqatar.com

Read more: Qatar news

Type: Sir Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization

How to apply: Online through the Sri Lanka tourism portal and travel advisor

Length of time: Valid for travel up to 30 days and 30 days from issuance

Processing time: Three to 20 business days

More information: lka-egov.org or eta.gov.lk

Type: Vietnam Electronic Visa

How to apply: Online through the Vietnamese government

Length of time: Valid for travel from 90 days of issuance, for travel up to 30 days

More information: vietnamvisa.govt.vn or vietnamembassy-usa.org

Related: Vietnam news

Bottom line

Given that processing timelines, fees and even application requirements change throughout time, we recommend checking your country of interest ahead of travel to ensure you are up to date with the latest processes.

We also suggest bookmarking the State Department's page for each country, which includes information related to visas, safety and more. Also, enroll in the STEP program . For more information, refer to the U.S. Embassy associated with each international destination.

Related reading:

• The difference between CDC and State Department travel warnings
• Brazil to require visas from Americans starting next month
• If you need a passport quickly, this service may be for you
• Passport processing wait times decrease for the 1st time since February
• Can you have multiple passports?
• How the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

‘We Are the World Power.’ How Joe Biden Leads

You can read the transcript of the interview here and the fact-check here .

Joe Biden makes his way through the West Wing telling stories. In the Cabinet Room, with sun pouring through French doors from the Rose Garden outside, he remembers the first time he sat around the long mahogany table, its high-backed leather chairs ordered by seniority. It was more than 50 years ago, Biden says, and Richard Nixon told National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger to brief the 30-year-old first-term Delaware Senator on the still secret timing of the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam. Walking slowly through the halls, the President unspools anecdotes about heads of state: Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping , Emmanuel Macron. In the Oval Office, he talks about his childhood home in Scranton, Pa., and the 2008 phone call from Barack Obama asking Biden to be his running mate.

Biden recounts these memories over the course of more than 90 minutes on a warm spring day, speaking in a quiet, sometimes scattershot way. The impression he gives is one of advancing age and broad experience, of a man who has lived history. Biden leads the U.S. as the American century is fading into an uncertain future, a changing world of threats, opportunities, and power shifts. At 81, he holds fast to a vision that has reigned since World War II, in which a rich and powerful America leads an alliance of democracies to safeguard the globe from tyranny.

On June 6, Biden will travel to Normandy, France, to memorialize an event that has served for eight decades as a focal point of this vision. He will arrive as the 12th—and certainly the last—American President who was alive on that day in 1944, when 73,000 American troops led the largest amphibious invasion in human history, accelerating Nazi Germany’s defeat and Europe’s liberation. For generations, D-Day has been a hallowed anniversary. The President says commemorating it is as much about the future as the past. “We’re playing [that role] even more,” Biden says. “We are the world power.”

Whether this view of America’s role in the world will outlast Biden’s presidency is an open question. Voters face a clear choice this November. Biden calls America’s democratic values the “grounding wire of our global power” and its alliances “our greatest asset.” His presumptive opponent, former President Donald Trump, called for withdrawing American forces in Europe and Asia and has promised, most recently in his April 12 interview with TIME, to cut loose even our closest allies if they don’t do as he tells them. By his own account, Trump sees all countries as unreliable, the relations between them transactional. That sentiment has spread throughout a Republican Party that once championed America’s values abroad. J.D. Vance, the Ohio Senator in contention to become Trump’s Vice President, tells TIME that the D-Day story has become a sepia-toned distraction. “The foreign policy establishment is obsessed with World War II historical analogies,” says Vance, “and everything is some fairy tale they tell themselves from the 1930s and 1940s.”

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During his 40 months in office, events have tested Biden’s vision of American world leadership. Alliances haven’t been enough to win a new European war in Ukraine. U.S. power and leverage haven’t prevented a humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East, marked by alleged war crimes. Putin is trying to assemble an axis of autocrats from Tehran to Beijing. In China, the U.S. faces an adversary potentially its equal in economic and military power that is intent on tearing down the American global order. President Xi has told his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027, U.S. officials say, raising the possibility of a dark analogue to Normandy in Asia. Biden doesn’t rule out sending troops to defend Taiwan if China attacked, saying, “It would depend on the circumstances.”

Biden’s record in facing these tests is more than just nostalgic talk. He has added two powerful European militaries to NATO, and will soon announce the doubling of the number of countries in the Atlantic alliance that are paying more than the target 2% of their GDP toward defense, the White House says. His Administration has worked to prevent the war in Gaza from igniting a broader regional conflict. He brokered the first trilateral summit with long-distrustful regional partners South Korea and Japan, and coaxed the Philippines to move away from Beijing’s orbit and provide the U.S. new access to four military bases. He has rallied European and Asian countries to curtail China’s economic sway. “We have put together the strongest alliance in the history of the world,” Biden says, so that “we are able to move in a way that recognizes how much the world has changed and still lead.”

But American Presidents must earn a mandate from their fellow citizens, and it’s far from clear that Biden can. In surveys, large majorities say that he is too old to lead. As he walked TIME through the West Wing and sat for a 35-minute interview on May 28, the President, with his stiff gait, muffled voice, and fitful syntax, cut a striking contrast with the intense, loquacious figure who served as Senator and Vice President. Biden bristles at the suggestion that he is aging out of his job. Asked whether he could handle its rigors though the end of a second term, when he will be 86, he shot back, “I can do it better than anybody you know.” Age aside, Biden’s handling of foreign affairs gets poor marks from voters, and not just for the bungled withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan or the ongoing war in Gaza. While 65% of Americans still believe that the U.S. should take a leading or major role in the world, that number is down 14 points from 2003 and is at its lowest level since Gallup began polling the issue two years earlier.

Biden, who is the most experienced foreign policy President in a generation, believes that role is in America’s interest. “When we strengthen our alliances, we amplify our power as well as our ability to disrupt threats before they can reach our shores,” he said soon after taking office. To judge the merit of Biden’s plan to sustain American world leadership, voters can look to his record: what he has accomplished, where he has fallen short, and how he intends to build on his work in a second term.

Around 3 p.m. on Dec. 13, 2021, the White House Situation Room put through a call from Biden to his Finnish counterpart, Sauli Niinisto. Putin’s invasion of Ukraine was still more than two months away, and Finland, with its 830-mile border with Russia and tense history with Moscow, had long declined to join NATO. Less than a quarter of Finns supported entering the alliance at the time. But Biden had decided, aides say, that if Russia invaded, the West’s response should be not just to defend NATO, but to strengthen it.

On March 4, days after the invasion, Biden met with the newly enthusiastic Niinisto in the Oval Office. Together they called Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, who had resisted joining the alliance, to try to persuade her. After both countries applied for membership in May 2022, Biden turned to getting the rest of NATO to accept them. In June, he called Turkey’s leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan from Air Force One on the way to a summit in Madrid, in hopes of getting Erdogan’s support for expanding the alliance. Dangling a one-on-one meeting, Biden said of Turkey’s long-sought access to America’s F-16 fighter jets, “Let’s find a way to get that done,” according to the White House. By March 2024, Sweden and Finland were in. “Everybody thought, including you guys, thought I was crazy,” Biden says. “Guess what? I did it.”

The accession of Finland and Sweden was part of Biden’s broader efforts to respond to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine by rallying the free world. Starting in October 2021, Biden held a series of meetings with European and NATO leaders, discussing postinvasion support for Ukraine, including military assistance, sanctions, diplomacy, and economic support. Biden also brought Asian allies into the effort. South Korea and Japan have imposed sanctions on Russia and its arms suppliers. The result, Biden advisers say, is a strengthened alliance of shared democratic values worldwide. “He has connected Europe and Asia in a way no previous President has,” says National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.

Others view all the investment in Ukraine as a distraction from the bigger challenge America faces in East Asia. “Who doesn’t think that $200 billion spent in Europe would’ve been incredibly useful in the Pacific?” says Elbridge Colby, a former Trump Administration Pentagon official and lead architect of the 2018 National Defense Strategy. “Great nations fail,” says Lieut. General Keith Kellogg, Trump’s former National Security Adviser, when “you fix somebody else’s potholes instead of fixing your potholes.” 

Biden says he remains committed to Ukrainian victory. Asked about the war’s endgame, Biden says, “Peace looks like making sure Russia never, never, never, never occupies Ukraine.” But last year’s Ukrainian counteroffensive was a failure. Russia recently has made its largest advances since the opening months of the invasion. Alliance building may have reached its limit, along with Americans’ appetite for funding a war of attrition. Biden’s allies in Kyiv complain he has been too cautious, giving Ukraine enough weapons to survive the war but not to win it. “It’s not a decisive stance,” says a senior official in President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government. “It’s not the way to victory.”

On balance, however, even longtime critics are impressed with Biden’s efforts in Ukraine. Former Defense Secretary and CIA director Robert Gates wrote in 2014 that Biden had “been wrong on nearly every major foreign policy and national-security issue over the past four decades.” But on May 19, Gates said that Biden’s response to Russia’s invasion has gone a long way toward repairing the damage of the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal. “He gained a lot of credibility with the speed with which he assembled the coalition of partner countries, allies, and friends before, during, and after the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” Gates told CBS’s  Face the Nation.

Biden says his response has been part of a broader deterrence strategy. “If we ever let Ukraine go down, mark my words, you’ll see Poland go, and you’ll see all those nations along the actual border of Russia [fall],” he tells TIME. But in other theaters, the high-minded Normandy vision has given way to a different kind of diplomacy.

Halfway through our interview, Biden responds to a question about America’s relationship with Saudi Arabia by saying that the U.S. has two kinds of alliances: “There are values-based, and there are practical-based.” During the campaign, Biden had sworn to make Saudi Arabia a “pariah.” One of his first moves in office was to cut off certain arms supplies over the kingdom’s war in Yemen, which has displaced 4.5 million people and killed 377,000, including 11,000 children, according to the U.N. Soon after, the de facto Saudi ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, met with China’s Foreign Minister and proposed greater cooperation on nuclear energy and security with Beijing, already the kingdom’s largest economic partner.

The Biden Administration quietly pivoted. A new “great game” was afoot, with the world dividing between competing Chinese and American spheres of influence. For all Biden’s efforts to stimulate a green transition, Saudi Arabia was still providing much of the world’s energy. Moreover, the Saudis had expressed willingness during the Trump presidency to normalize relations with Israel, which would tilt the regional balance of power against Iran and in the U.S.’s favor. On Sept. 27, 2021, Sullivan traveled to Saudi Arabia with instructions from Biden to explore the possibility of a peace deal between the kingdom and Israel.

Biden himself traveled to Saudi Arabia in July 2022, bucking a flurry of criticism for meeting with MBS, who has led a widespread crackdown on clerics, academics, and human-rights advocates critical of his regime, according to Human Rights Watch, and who the U.S. says ordered the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi . But the visit helped stabilize relations. Over the course of the next year, it began to look as if Biden’s moral climb down with MBS had brought the Saudis back on the U.S. side, and restarted a possible bargain with Israel. The outlines of that deal, Biden now says, were “overwhelmingly in our interest.”

Hamas, the terrorist group that controls Gaza, was determined not to allow it. Days after its Oct. 7 attack against Israel, which killed some 1,200 people, Hamas spokesman Ghazi Hamad told TIME, “We planned for this because Israel thinks it can make peace with anyone, it can make normalization with any country, it can oppress the Palestinians, so we decided to shock the Israelis in order to wake up others.” Eight Americans were among the estimated 240 taken hostage in the massacre. The Biden Administration has sought to secure their release, but it is not clear how many of the American hostages have survived; three reportedly have been killed. “We believe there are those that are still alive,” Biden tells TIME. “I met with all the families. But we don’t have final proof on exactly who’s alive.”

Biden’s reaction to Oct. 7 was to provide rock-solid support to Israel. Within a week he had deployed two aircraft carriers to the region. Quietly, he tried to rally Egypt and Saudi Arabia to resist expansion of the conflict into a war between Israel and Iran. Biden’s “practical-based” alliance building appeared to pay off on April 13, when Iran responded to an Israeli attack on a satellite diplomatic office by launching more than 300 missiles and drones in its first-ever direct attack on Israel. The Saudis and Jordanians reportedly provided intelligence assistance and opened their airspace to U.S. and other jets. With Israel leading the way, the ad hoc alliance managed to shoot down all but four of the projectiles, with no fatalities. More important, the episode helped avert a region-wide war.

But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has upped the cost of Biden’s commitment to Israel at every turn. Nearly eight months after the conflict started, the death toll in Gaza, according to the local Hamas-led Ministry of Health, has climbed to more than 36,000 people, including an unknown number of Hamas fighters. More than 1.7 million have been displaced by Israeli attacks that have destroyed much of the enclave. On May 20, the prosecutor for the International Criminal Court requested a war-crimes indictment for Netanyahu, his Defense Minister, and three leaders of Hamas. Four days later, in a largely symbolic move, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt operations in Gaza . Human Rights Watch says Israel has “imposed collective punishments on the civilian population, deprived the civilian population of objects indispensable to its survival, and used starvation of civilians as a weapon of war.”

Asked if Israeli forces have committed war crimes in Gaza, Biden says, “It’s uncertain.” From the start, the Administration knew Israel was pushing the limits of legal warfare, the Washington Post and others have reported. The conflict is driving a wedge between the U.S. and its allies. On May 31, Biden laid out a phased cease-fire plan that would end the war and secure the release of hostages. He has continued to pursue the complicated regional deal with Saudi Arabia. Some close to Biden say the only holdout to the broader pact is Netanyahu. The President declines to say as much, but when asked by TIME if Netanyahu is prolonging the war for his own political reasons, Biden admits, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.”

As aides try to bring the interview to a close, Biden turns to China. Hawks say Beijing is in a sprint to match American economic and military production. By some measures, it is catching up on GDP and defense manufacturing, and already has a larger navy. But Biden takes a bullish view of the competition with the rising Asian power. “Everybody talks about how, how strong China is and how powerful they are,” Biden says. “You’ve got an economy that’s on the brink there. The idea that their economy is booming, give me a break.” That doesn’t mean they can’t pose a threat. Asked if China is using AI or other means to meddle in the upcoming U.S. election, Biden says someone is, but declines to say who. Pressed, he adds, “I think China would have an interest in meddling.”

What Biden describes as China’s economic weakness could make confrontation more, not less, likely—another argument, as he sees it, for expanding America’s alliances in East Asia. And in that arena, the President has pursued a mix of “values-based” and “practical” approaches.

Biden was on Air Force One on his way to a fundraiser in Illinois on May 11, 2022, when the results of the Philippine presidential elections were announced, showing that Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had won. Biden “had the instinct to just pick up the phone and said, ‘Hey, let’s get together soon and start building a relationship,’” Sullivan says. It was a long shot. Marcos has a pending $2 billion judgment against him in a U.S. court relating to his parents’ human-rights record during their more than 20-year dictatorship, which ended in 1986. The Philippines are now rated “partly free” by Freedom House, and the outgoing President, Rodrigo Duterte, had courted China even as Beijing claimed nearby islands and territorial waters. Marcos had sent cold signals to the U.S. during his campaign.

Biden’s call was the first Marcos had received from a foreign leader. As U.S. officials followed up, they briefed the new President on the parallels between Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and Xi’s declared goals in the South China Sea. Biden dispatched Vice President Kamala Harris and his Secretaries of State and Defense to woo Marcos. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman made clear Marcos had diplomatic immunity and would be welcome in the U.S. Less than a year after Biden’s congratulatory call, Marcos made a visit to the White House. More significantly, he provided the U.S. military new access to four bases in the Philippines. In April and May, the two countries engaged in their largest military exercises together, simulating an effort to repulse an amphibious landing. “The President got engaged early in a very personal way,” says Sullivan, “and then kind of showed both respect for him and a vision for where the relationship would go.”

Biden has pursued this brand of personal realpolitik across Asia. He elevated the communist autocracy in Vietnam to the highest diplomatic status, comprehensive strategic partner, and has moved to embrace the increasingly repressive regime of Narendra Modi in India. He has tried to boost the “Quad” alliance with India, Japan, and Australia, upgrading it from a meeting of Foreign Ministers to one of heads of state. In April 2023, Biden convened a Camp David summit with the South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Overcoming long-fraught relations between Seoul and Tokyo, the three countries criticized China’s behavior in the South China Sea and declared “a hinge point of history, when geopolitical competition, the climate crisis, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and nuclear provocations test us.”

Critics say the problem is too much friend making and not enough deterrence. The U.K. recently said China may be preparing to provide lethal aid to Russia, a move that Biden said in March 2022 would put Xi “in significant jeopardy” of harsh U.S. sanctions. “The single biggest problem with the Biden team is their failure to grasp what it takes to achieve effective deterrence against aggressors,” says Matt Pottinger, who was Deputy National Security Adviser under Trump. “They failed against the Taliban, then Putin, and then Iran and its proxies. And now Beijing is making moves that could prove fateful for the world.” Former Trump official Colby says Biden’s diplomatic work is a weak substitute for the one thing that can deter China’s rise. “These high-profile photo ops,” says Colby, “are not a substitute for raw military power.” He points to recent statements by senior U.S. military officials that China is outpacing the U.S. on missile- and shipbuilding, and war games showing the U.S. losing badly in a contest over Taiwan, and says the U.S. should put all its efforts into defending the “first island chain” of Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines.

Biden believes that withdrawing from Europe and the Middle East to focus on East Asia would backfire, aides say. If America abandons its allies elsewhere, they argue, its Asian allies will abandon it, in turn. The U.S. needs European and Middle Eastern countries to increase its economic and military advantages over China. And ultimately, failing to confront instability now—in Ukraine, Gaza or elsewhere—will only make doing so later a more costly distraction from the competition with Beijing.

Back in the Cabinet Room after the interview, the sun is lower, and Biden has more stories. He turns to a sideboard with a commendation from the Kosovo government to his son Beau Biden, who died of cancer nine years ago. The President relates with evident pride his son’s work supporting its judicial system. A mention of diplomat Richard Holbrooke, who brokered the Dayton accords for the Balkans, elicits a story about Afghanistan and an argument Biden had with Holbrooke over the search for peace there. 

On a matching sideboard on the other side of the door, the President opens an album with travel pictures, launching a series of anecdotes about the Popes he has known, including John Paul II and Benedict, whom Biden calls “the Rottweiler.” Recounting an exchange with one over abortion, he casts an eye toward the cracked door to the Oval Office and asks an aide, “Are they in there?” Turning back to his visitors, he says, “Let me show you one more picture.”

This avuncular politicking remains a Biden trademark, one that has helped with allies overseas but failed to unite Americans at home, as Biden pledged when running for President. Not that he has stopped trying. Biden ultimately persuaded Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to move a roughly $95 billion supplemental aid package for Ukraine, the Middle East, and Taiwan. To build support for his Middle East peace package, he has worked both sides of the aisle. On Nov. 8, 2023, Biden sat for two hours in the windowless Roosevelt Room with a bipartisan group of nine Senators who had just returned from the region, asking for impressions from the trip and moderating a conversation between them, Sullivan, and Middle East coordinator Brett McGurk. At the end, he pulled Democratic Senator Chris Coons and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham into the Oval Office for separate 10-minute conversations about next steps in the effort, says Coons.

Biden may be right that despite the partisanship, a consensus exists for a values-based, pragmatic role for America in the world. His challenge is to get Americans to focus on that rather than on other issues driven by foreign affairs, like inflation or immigration. Biden denies that his expansion of Trump’s trade war with China will increase prices, and says his only regret about lifting Trump’s anti-immigration measures is that he didn’t do it sooner. His goal in a second term, he says, is “to finish what he started.”

At stake is the direction of the world for the coming century. At Normandy, Biden will make the case for what historian Hal Brands says is “the 80-year tradition of internationalism that has been quite good for America and the world.” The alternative, says Brands, would be a “more vicious and chaotic” world where Americans ultimately would be less safe, prosperous, and free, but only after everyone else suffered first.

Wrapping up his conversation with TIME, Biden offers cookies from a tray in the outer Oval. “They’re homemade,” he says. Turning to leave, he offers a final salutation: “Keep the faith.” But then he pauses and turns back, as the phrase triggers one last story. It’s about a relative who had his own response to that admonition. And here Biden taps one of his visitors on the chest and says, “Spread the faith.”

— With reporting by Simon Shuster/Kyiv; Leslie Dickstein, Simmone Shah, and Julia Zorthian/New York; and Melissa August, Brian Bennett, Vera Bergengruen, Eric Cortellessa, and Sam Jacobs/Washington

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Correction appended, June 5: The original version of this story misstated the terms of an agreement the Biden Administration struck with the Philippines. The Philippines provided the U.S. new access to four existing military bases, not permission for four new bases.

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