Egypt: Immigration Fees Must Now Be Paid in U.S. Dollars

Foreign nationals must now pay immigration-related fees in U.S. dollars, including payments for residence permit applications (new permits or renewals), in-country visitor visa extensions, and immigration fines (including overstay and non-registration fines). To pay such fees, foreign nationals must now first convert U.S. dollars into Egyptian pounds in person at any of the following three banks: National Bank of Egypt/Al Ahly Bank, Banque Misr, or Banque du Caire. The bank will then issue a receipt in the applicant’s name, stating that the currency conversion was for the purpose of a “government fee payment”. Applications must then be submitted within 15 days of obtaining the currency conversion receipt. Otherwise, applicants will be required to conduct a new currency conversion. Previously, foreign nationals could pay immigration fees in Egyptian pounds. Through this amendment, the government is seeking to replenish foreign currency reserves.