Egypt, a land steeped in millennia of history, continues to be a captivating destination for travelers worldwide.1 For UK citizens dreaming of exploring the iconic pyramids, cruising the legendary Nile, or relaxing on the Red Sea coast, understanding the Egypt entry requirements is the first crucial step. This article provides a comprehensive guide to obtaining an Egypt visa for UK citizens, detailing the different application methods, necessary documents, and important travel considerations to ensure a smooth journey to the “Gift of the Nile.”
Egypt Visa for UK Citizens: Your Options for Entry
British passport holders normally need a visa to enter Egypt for tourism or business purposes.2 The good news is that the Egyptian government offers convenient pathways for obtaining this authorization: the e-Visa (electronic visa) and the Visa on Arrival.
1. Egypt E-Visa for UK Citizens: The Recommended and Modern Choice
The Egypt e-Visa system is increasingly the preferred and most efficient method for UK citizens to secure their entry authorization. This online process allows you to apply for and obtain your visa entirely from the comfort of your home in the UK, eliminating the need for a physical visit to an embassy or consulate.3
- Process:
- Official Website: Access the official Egyptian e-Visa portal: www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. It is crucial to use this official site to avoid unofficial third-party websites that may charge excessive fees or provide inaccurate information.
- Account Creation and Application: Create an account and meticulously fill out the online application form. Ensure all personal details, passport information, and your intended travel itinerary are entered accurately.
- Document Upload: Upload a recent, high-quality digital passport-sized photograph. This should typically be a clear image against a white background, meeting standard passport photo specifications (e.g., 4cm x 6cm).
- Secure Payment: Pay the visa fee securely online using a valid credit or debit card.4 For UK citizens, a single-entry tourist e-Visa typically costs $25 USD, while a multiple-entry e-Visa is approximately $60 USD. Be aware that some private visa agents may charge additional service fees.5
- Approval & Print: Once your application is approved (which usually takes between 3 to 7 business days, though it can extend up to 10 days, so apply well in advance), you will receive your e-Visa approval letter via email.6 Print out a copy of this e-Visa to present to immigration officers upon arrival in Egypt.
- Key Requirements for E-Visa:
- A valid UK passport with an expiry date at least six months after your date of arrival in Egypt.7
- At least one blank page in your passport for the entry stamp.
- A recent digital passport-sized photograph.
- A valid email address to receive the e-Visa.
- A valid credit or debit card for online payment.
- While not always strictly required for the online application itself, it is advisable to have a confirmed travel itinerary (e.g., return flight tickets) and proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel bookings) readily available, as these might be requested by immigration officials upon entry.
2. Egypt Visa on Arrival for UK Citizens: A Flexible Alternative
British passport holders are also eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival at Egypt’s major international airports, including Cairo International Airport, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Luxor.8 This option offers flexibility for those with spontaneous travel plans or who prefer not to apply online in advance.9
- Process:
- Locate Visa Kiosk: Upon arrival at the Egyptian airport, before reaching the main immigration desks, proceed to the designated bank kiosks or visa counters.
- Purchase Sticker: Purchase a visa sticker. For a single-entry tourist visa, the cost is typically $25 USD.10 While Egyptian officials prefer US Dollars, you may be able to pay in British Pounds or Euros (cash only). It’s always best to have the exact amount in USD to avoid potential issues with change or acceptance of other currencies.
- Affix & Proceed: Affix the purchased visa sticker to a blank page in your passport.
- Immigration: Proceed to the immigration counter, where an officer will stamp your visa, officially granting you entry.
- Key Requirements for Visa on Arrival:
- A valid UK passport with at least six months of validity from your entry date.11
- At least one blank page in your passport.
- $25 USD in cash for a single-entry tourist visa.
- While generally straightforward, immigration officers may, at their discretion, request proof of onward/return tickets or sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Special Note on “Sinai Only” Visa for UK Citizens:
If you are planning to stay for less than 15 days and your travel is strictly limited to the resorts in the South Sinai Governorate (Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba), UK citizens do not need a full visa. Instead, you will receive a free entry permission stamp (“Sinai Only” visa) on arrival at Sharm El Sheikh airport. However, if you plan to travel outside these specific areas (e.g., to Cairo, Luxor, or Hurghada) or stay longer than 15 days, you must obtain a full Egyptian visa (either an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival).
General Egypt Entry Requirements & Travel Advice
Beyond the visa itself, there are other crucial Egypt entry requirements and general travel advice for all visitors:
- Passport Validity: This cannot be stressed enough: your passport must have an expiry date at least six months after your date of arrival in Egypt and have at least one blank page.12 Failure to meet this can result in denial of boarding or entry.
- Currency: While the Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency, US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. It’s advisable to carry small denominations of USD for convenience, particularly for tips (baksheesh) and minor purchases.
- Health and Safety:
- Drinking Water: Always drink bottled water. Avoid tap water.
- Food Hygiene: Be cautious with street food and ensure food is cooked thoroughly.
- Mosquitoes: Use insect repellent, especially in the evenings, to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.13
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unforeseen medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or other disruptions.14
- Cultural Sensitivity: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country.15
- Dress Code: Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites such as mosques and churches.16 This typically means covering your shoulders and knees.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially women. Some sites may have photography restrictions or require a fee.
- Local Laws and Customs:
- Social Media: Be mindful of what you post on social media; the political environment can be restrictive, and critical comments about the government or local issues could lead to problems.
- Public Displays of Affection: Keep public displays of affection discreet.
- Drugs: Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.17
- Terrorism Threat: The UK government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Egypt due to the threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks can be indiscriminate and target places visited by foreign nationals. Stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the advice of local authorities. Certain areas, particularly North Sinai and parts of the South Sinai beyond specific resorts, carry higher travel warnings.18 Always check the latest FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) travel advice before and during your trip (gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt).
- Taba Border Crossing (from Israel): As of July 2025, if crossing from Israel into Egypt at Taba, you will need to pay a “Sinai Tax” of 720 Egyptian pounds (cash only, payable in EGP) per person.19 This tax exempts you from needing an entry visa for up to 15 days if you stay within the Sinai Peninsula. For longer stays or travel outside Sinai, a full visa is required.
By meticulously preparing for these Egypt entry requirements and understanding the nuances of obtaining an Egypt visa for UK citizens, travelers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the timeless wonders and vibrant culture of this ancient land.
