Egyptian Banks Raise Traveller Cash Limit to USD 10,000 and Cut Fees

Egypt’s largest banks have increased the foreign currency cash withdrawal limit for travellers to USD 10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, up from previous caps of USD 2,000 to USD 5,000 depending on the bank and card type. The new ceiling, now in place at the National Bank of Egypt, Bank Misr, and the Commercial International Bank, aligns with the maximum legal allowance for outbound travellers. Customers can withdraw the full amount before departure by presenting a valid flight ticket and visa.

In a further easing of restrictions, several banks have reduced foreign currency markup fees on credit card transactions from 5% to 3%. The lower rates are already in effect at the National Bank of Egypt and CIB, while Bank Misr will implement its cut on August 13th, 2025. The Central Bank of Egypt has also removed the requirement for customers to provide proof of travel abroad when using credit cards.

The measures mark a significant shift from restrictions imposed from late 2022, when foreign currency outflows were curbed to address a severe dollar shortage, the emergence of a parallel market, and sustained pressure on the pound. At the height of the controls in 2023, overseas spending caps were sharply reduced, in some cases to USD 50 to USD 100 per month for regular customers and a few hundred dollars for premium cardholders, while high markup fees were applied to discourage use.