Egypt: Payment methods & tips

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Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in local currency

For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination

Local currency / ISO Code

Egyptian Pound EGP

Further Information

Import local currency
up to EGP 1'000.00

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Export local currency
up tp EGP 1'000.00

Export foreign currency
unlimited; EUR 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Credit cards

Customary credit cards are accepted in most places. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.

ATM Search

Find out more about Travel

Useful tips from our experts:

Credit cards are recommended for car rentals. Prepaid cards are generally accepted for payment but not for reservations. Please check the possible payment methods with the car rental company in advance.

Hotel bills may be paid in GBP, USD or EUR. When paying in EGP, guest must present receipt (sales, exchange or ATM).

Travelers are advised to take cash in euro (EUR).

Keep exchange and transaction receipts for reconversion.

Practical Information:

Time difference with Switzerland

+ 1h

National language

Official language

Arabic

Language capabilities

English and French

Capital

Cairo (Al-Qahirah)

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

220 volt / adapter required for 3-pronged plug

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more with visa (is also available upon arrival at the airport; USD 25.00) for stays up to 1 month.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Kairo, 10 Abdel Khalek Sarwat Street
Tel. +202 2575 82 84

Opening hours

Banks

8.30 - 14.00 h (Sun - Thu)

Stores

10.00 - 21.00 h (Sun - Thu)

Driving

International driver's license required.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

Security

Despite increased security measures there is a risk of terrorist attacks at any time throughout the country, this also includes the seaside resorts.
Observe elementary safety precautions.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Avoid nighttime driving.

Special legal regulations

Photographing persons wearing an uniform, military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.
Severe penalties for violations of drug laws (up to life imprisonment/death penalty).

Cultural characteristics

Egypt is a predominantly Moslem country. Please observe local customs for dress code and conduct.
Ramadan 2019: 05.05. - 04.06.

Security

Despite increased security measures there is a risk of terrorist attacks at any time throughout the country, this also includes the seaside resorts.
Observe elementary safety precautions.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Avoid nighttime driving.

Travel advice for Egypt.