Egypt: Fake visa scam targets foreign visitors

Event

Egyptian officials have warned that an American website, operated by GCL Internet Services under the name "Egyptvisa.com," has allegedly been offering e-visas for travel to Egypt at double the official price. Travelers have reported the site takes their money without ever delivering a visa. The Egyptian Interior Ministry has stressed that travelers wishing to come to Egypt must obtain an Egyptian visa from the official government website.

Context

Since December 2017, travelers have been able to apply for a visa online instead of traveling to the nearest Egyptian Embassy. The e-visa program offers a single-entry visa for a fee of USD 25 or a multiple-entry visa for a fee of USD 60. Both types of visa are valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. The move to offer visa services online was an effort by Egyptian officials to lure tourists to the country.

Advice

Individuals requiring an Egyptian visa are advised to remain alert to the risk of fraudulent websites and to use the official Egyptian visa website or contact the nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate for more information.