Individuals with a criminal record are sometimes required to declare this fact on foreign visa applications. Naturally, this raises the question: can anyone travel to Egypt with a criminal record?
This article explains what steps are necessary for those with previous felonies looking to get a valid visa for Egypt.
Read on below to learn whether a traveler needs a criminal record check for Egypt, whether this affects an application for an Egypt e-Visa and what passengers must know when traveling to Egypt with a criminal record.
Can You Go to Egypt with a Criminal Record?
Yes, in a lot of cases, visitors can enter Egypt even if they have a criminal record.
A criminal record check is not a condition of entry, nor is it one of Egypt’s visa requirements for tourist.
As long as the passenger in question is not a known security risk to the Egyptian National Security Agency or international authorities, they may visit the country as normal.
Can I Get a Visa to Egypt if I have a Criminal Record?
Yes, there are no restrictions to applying for an Egypt visa or eVisa with a criminal record.
Application forms for these travel permits do not ask travellers about their criminal history. Therefore, you do not have to declare this information prior to arrival.
Can a Felon Travel to Egypt?
A criminal conviction that has already been served doesn’t affect the ability of an individual to enter Egypt. However, there might be restrictions against those with pending or outstanding convictions.
People traveling with unspent convictions or awaiting trial may not be allowed to pass through border security to leave their country of departure. Alternatively, they could be blocked from transiting through other nations to get to Egypt, depending on the visa requirements of the country they are passing through.
Furthermore, individuals listed on the TSA no-fly list or other security registers in Egypt or other countries could be prevented from boarding transport to travel abroad.
Also, US citizens who have been convicted of drug trafficking felonies or treasonable offenses may not be issued with US passports. A passport is a mandatory travel document needed to travel to Egypt and passengers will not be allowed to enter the country or board transport abroad without one.
Is Criminal Record Information Found on a Traveler’s Passport?
No, there is no criminal record information on a passport. When traveling to Egypt or other foreign countries, your passport only shows your basic personal details such as name, date of birth, and nationality.
Criminal record information cannot be traced from a traveler’s passport. This data can only be accessed from criminal record databases kept by national and international security authorities.
How to Get an e-Visa for Egypt With a Criminal Record
Individuals with a criminal record can apply for an Egyptian e-Visa as normal, providing they have a passport issued by an eligible country.
Applying for an e-Visa is a fast and straightforward process. Filling out the form only takes a few minutes and you can choose between a single or multiple-entry visa.
It is available to visitors of over 70 eligible countries and allows passengers to get a valid visa before arriving in Egypt without having to visit an embassy or consulate.
Regardless of any criminal past, it is essential to only provide correct and truthful information on the application form for an Egypt visa. Not providing accurate data could lead to an e-Visa being rejected.
Having a minor criminal record is not an obstacle to entry into Egypt in the majority of cases. By following the correct requirements and getting an e-Visa before entry, it is easy for travelers to visit, despite any previous felonies.
Do You Have to Declare Any Criminal Convictions When You Arrive in Egypt?
In general, border authorities do not ask about your criminal record when traveling to Egypt.
Upon arrival at Egyptian border control, immigration officers will ask to see your passport, visa, and any other necessary documents, such as proof of accommodation.
It is highly unlikely that you will be asked about your criminal convictions.
However, if a border officer does ask about prior offenses, it is important to answer truthfully. In the vast majority of cases, having a criminal record will not exclude you from entry to Egypt.
Do you need police clearance to enter Egypt?
No, the is no requirement to get police clearance to travel to Egypt. A valid passport and visa are the most important items to remember to bring to ensure that you can enter the country.
You may need police clearance to work in certain fields in Egypt. You can inquire with the Egyptian National Police (ENP) to obtain the clearance you need.
