The residents of Tobruk, Libya, expressed their discontent with Egypt’s recent decision to double the entry fees for Libyans crossing into Egypt, via the Sallum border crossing, now equivalent to $200 dollars.
This fee hike, which also encompasses additional charges under various headings, is being perceived as overly burdensome and disrespectful by the Libyan community. This is especially given the close social, and cultural ties between Libya and Egypt.
The residents’ statement calls on Libyan authorities to “intervene and revisit the bilateral travel agreements established in 1990 between the two nations.”
This increase, initiated by Egyptian authorities in April, includes several charges for Libyan traveler’s. According to reports from Tobruk, individuals entering Egypt must pay EGP 350 at the Al-Shaweesh Attia gate, and an additional EGP 250 for a stamp at a passport office within 7 days of entering Egypt.
A mandatory sticker fee of $25 dollars is required, along with a charge of 75 Egyptian pounds for each passenger traveling to Sallum, without a private vehicle. For those returning via the same crossing, there’s an obligatory EGP 350 for passport cards, and an EGP 850 fine for failing to pay the new entry fee of EGP 250.
This fee increase has significant implications for Libyans, especially those in border areas like Tobruk, who frequently travel to Egypt for business, family visits, and medical treatment. The augmented fees not only impose a financial burden, but also strain the historically cordial relations between the two neighbours.
The move has stirred discussions about the delicate balance between border security, and facilitating movement for border communities. The reaction from Tobruk’s residents underlines the necessity for diplomatic engagement, and policy adjustments that consider the economic and social dynamics of border regions.