For citizens of the Principality of Monaco, accustomed to the luxury of the French Riviera, Egypt offers a different kind of grandeur. From the timeless elegance of the Nile to the majestic history of the Pyramids, it is a destination that promises awe at every turn.
However, even for holders of one of the world’s most exclusive passports, entry requirements must be met. The most common question for Monegasque travelers is: Do I need a visa, and can I arrange it before I leave Monte Carlo?
This comprehensive guide answers every question about the Egypt tourist eVisa for Monaco passport holders.
Do Monaco Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Egypt?
The short answer is yes. Despite the high global mobility of the Monegasque passport, citizens of Monaco do not have visa-free access to Egypt for general tourism.
Whether you are planning a private Nile cruise from Luxor or a diving expedition in the Red Sea, you must hold a valid travel authorization. Fortunately, the Egyptian government has streamlined the process, allowing you to secure your visa entirely online without visiting a consulate.
Can Monegasque Citizens Get a Visa on Arrival?
Yes. If you prefer not to apply online, citizens of Monaco are eligible for a Visa on Arrival.
- Where: Available at all major international airports (Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Luxor).
- Important: This must be paid in CASH. The kiosks prefer US Dollars (USD). While Euros are often accepted, the exchange rate given at the counter is usually unfavorable.
Why Is the 6-Month Passport Validity Rule So Important?
When applying for your visa, you will see a requirement that your passport be valid for 6 months.
- What it means: Your Monegasque passport must not expire for at least 6 months from the day you enter Egypt.
- The Risk: If your passport expires in 4 months, airlines in Nice or Paris will likely deny you boarding. Even if you have an approved eVisa, the physical passport expiration date takes precedence at border control.
Does the visa offer 24/7 customer service?
When things go wrong or delays happen, having someone to talk to is crucial.
| Support Feature | Government Portal | evisa-to-egypt.info |
| Customer Service | Limited/None. No live chat or personalized email support for individual applicants. | 24/7 Human Support. Access to help via Chat, Email, Call, and WhatsApp at any time. |
| Status Tracking | Basic. You must log in and check the status code yourself. | Proactive Updates. The team monitors the status and emails you updates; they perform priority follow-ups if delays occur. |
| Complex Cases | No Guidance. Complex situations (dual nationality, past issues) are not addressed. | Personalized Advice. Experts can guide you on how to present your application for the best chance of approval. |
How Can Citizens of Monaco Apply for the Egypt eVisa Online?
The Egypt Visa application process is fully digital and designed to be efficient. You do not need to visit the nearest Egyptian Consulate (typically in Marseille or Paris).
- Select Nationality: Choose “Monaco” from the dropdown list.
- Enter Details: Fill in your name, passport number, and travel dates exactly as they appear on your passport.
- Choose Processing Speed: Select Standard, Rush, or Super Rush based on your departure date.
- Make Payment: Pay securely using a Credit Card or PayPal.
- Print Your Visa: Once approved, the visa is sent to your email. You must print a physical copy to present at immigration in Egypt.
What Documents Are Required for the Application?
To ensure a smooth approval, have these digital items ready before you start:
- Valid Passport: Your Monegasque passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Egypt.
- Passport Scan: A clear, color scan of the biographical page (the page with your photo).
- Travel Information: Flight details and the name of your hotel or host in Egypt.
- Payment Method: A valid credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard/Amex) or PayPal.
How Much Does an Egypt Visa Cost for Monaco Citizens?
Understanding the cost helps you budget. The total Egypt E-Visa cost is calculated as follows:
Final Amount = Government Fee + Service Fee + (Rush or Super Rush Fee, if chosen)
Payment Methods
The system is fully digital. You can pay using:
- Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express.
- PayPal: A secure option for quick transactions.
Group Discount
Traveling with family or a group of friends from Monaco? You can save 40% on Rush & Super Rush Processing fees when applying for multiple applicants at once.
What Is the Processing Time for the Egypt eVisa?
Time is luxury. We offer three processing tiers to match your schedule:
| Service Type | Estimated Processing Time | Best For |
| Standard | 10 – 12 Working Days | Travelers planning weeks ahead. |
| Rush | 7 – 10 Working Days | Trips booked 2 weeks out. |
| Super Rush / Express | 5 – 7 Working Days | Last-minute bookings. |
Pro Tip: We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your flight to account for any public holidays in Egypt.
How Can I Track the Status of My Application?
After submitting your application, you don’t need to call or email to check on it. You can track the status in three simple steps:
- Provide Order ID: Enter the unique ID sent to your email.
- Passport Number: Type your passport number exactly.
- Captcha Code: Verify the security code and click “Check Status.”
The system will instantly update you on whether your visa is “Processing,” “Approved,” or requires attention.
Is the “Sinai Only” Visa Free for Monaco Tourists?
If you are flying directly to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, or Taba for a beach holiday, you might not be required to pay for a visa.
- The Perk: A free entry stamp valid for 14-15 days.
- The Catch: You are restricted to the South Sinai coast. You cannot visit Cairo (Pyramids), Luxor, or even take the ferry to Hurghada.
- How to Get It: Write “Sinai Only” on your immigration card at the airport.
Warning: If you plan to take a day trip to Cairo to see the Pyramids, you must buy the full $25 visa upon arrival. You cannot “upgrade” the free stamp later without going back to the airport.
Can I Convert a Transit Visa into a Tourist Visa?
If you arrive in Egypt on a short transit visa (typically for layovers between 6 and 48 hours) and decide you want to stay longer, you cannot automatically convert this into a full Egypt tourist visa while inside the city.
- The Rule: Transit permits are strictly for short layovers.
- The Solution: If you think you might want to stay longer than 48 hours, you should purchase the standard Visa on Arrival ($25) immediately upon landing, rather than accepting the free or lower-cost transit permit. It is much harder to rectify your status once you have left the airport.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Monegasque Passport in Egypt?
Losing your passport abroad is stressful, but there is a protocol for Monaco citizens.
- File a Police Report: Go to the nearest tourist police station to report the loss. You need this document for any diplomatic assistance.
- Contact the Honorary Consulate: Monaco has an Honorary Consulate in Cairo (Address: 26, rue 26 Juillet, Cairo).
- French Embassy Assistance: Since Monaco has a special relationship with France, in cases of emergency where Monegasque representation is unavailable or for specific consular services, the French Embassy in Cairo often provides assistance to Monegasque nationals.
- Exit Visa: Once you have an emergency travel document, you may need to visit the Egyptian Passport Office (Gawazat) to get an exit stamp before you can fly home.
Can I Convert a Tourist Visa to a Residence Permit?
A common query is whether you can change your status once in Egypt.
- Strict Rules: The tourist eVisa is strictly for tourism. It cannot be automatically converted into a work visa or residence permit.
- Process: To obtain residency, you must visit the “Gawazat” (Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration) in Egypt and apply separately.
Do Children from Monaco Need Their Own Visa?
Yes. This is a common point of confusion. Every traveler, regardless of age (including infants), requires a valid visa.
- If the child has their own passport: You must submit a separate application for them.
- If registered on a parent’s passport: They must still be included in the parent’s visa application.
- Cost: There is no child discount for the government visa fee.
Can I Pay for the Visa on Arrival with Euros?
While bank kiosks at Egyptian airports often accept Euros, it is not recommended.
- Exchange Rate: The visa fee is pegged to the US Dollar ($25). If you pay in Euros, the bank will apply its own exchange rate, and you will receive change in Egyptian Pounds (EGP).
- Recommendation: Bring exactly $25 USD per person in cash to ensure a smooth transaction.
What Vaccines Are Required for Monegasques Entering Egypt?
Generally, no specific vaccines are required for entry from Monaco or Europe.
- Yellow Fever: Only required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission (e.g., certain parts of Africa or South America).
- Routine: It is always good practice to be up to date on routine vaccines like Tetanus and Hepatitis A.
Conclusion
For citizens of Monaco, the Egypt eVisa is the key to a smooth and sophisticated travel experience. By applying online, choosing the right processing speed, and paying securely, you avoid the stress of airport queues and currency exchange issues.
From the glittering Mediterranean coast of Alexandria to the golden sands of Aswan, Egypt awaits. Bon voyage!