Bank Account and SIM Card in Egypt
Get a local SIM card soon after you land. Mobile companies ask for your passport and your residence permit (the card that lets you live in Egypt while you study) or e-Visa (the online tourist visa). For a bank account, ask the bank which papers it needs.
Example bank
Available Balance
Recent Transactions
Example: Supermarket
-85.40 EGP
Example: Metro pass
-200.00 EGP
Example: Money from home
+5,000.00 EGP
The card shown is only an example. Your SIM card needs your passport and your residence permit or e-Visa.
Banks in Egypt
A wide range of local and international banks serve international students in Egypt.
Fees
Study in Egypt fees can be paid online or by bank deposit. If you pay by deposit, upload a copy of the receipt.
Opening a Bank Account
Each bank sets its own rules for foreign students.
Ask your university
Ask which bank its students use to pay fees.
Ask the bank for its list
Each bank sets its own papers for foreigners.
Tips
Ask the bank which papers it needs before you go.
SIM Cards in Egypt
Egypt has four main mobile companies: WE, e& Egypt, Orange and Vodafone.
See Vodafone's list of papers for a prepaid line.
Best Student Deal:
Prepaid line: passport plus residence permit or e-Visa
Choose a company
Four main companies. Choose one.
Take your papers to a shop
Vodafone asks for a valid passport and a valid residence permit or e-Visa for a prepaid line.
Prepaid or monthly plan
For a new monthly (postpaid) line, Vodafone also asks for proof that you can pay, such as a deposit of 1,000 Egyptian pounds (EGP) or a bank statement. A prepaid line (you pay first, then use) needs only the papers above.
- Bring your passport to the shop.
- Bring your residence permit. If you do not have one yet, bring your e-Visa (the online tourist visa).
Money and Phone Tips
Simple habits for your first months in Egypt.
Plan in two currencies
Tuition is often in US dollars (USD). Daily costs are in Egyptian pounds (EGP).
Keep some cash
Keep some Egyptian pounds in cash for your first days.
Banking Security
- Never share your card PIN or bank codes.
Digital Privacy
- Do not share photos of your passport on social media.
Complete Guide to Egypt
Explore all aspects of studying in Egypt with our comprehensive guides
Post-Arrival - Detailed Guides
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