Egypt Visa Requirements
British citizens generally need a visa to visit Egypt. The best way to get a tourist visa is to visit the Visa2Egypt website before you travel – this will be valid for a maximum of three months.
Tourist visas are also available on arrival in Egypt at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before you pass through immigration. However, we would strongly advise that you get an online visa before travelling instead, as this can be a very time-consuming process. If you do choose to get a tourist visa on arrival, it will cost $30, payable only in cash. Visas granted on arrival are valid for a maximum of 30 days.
Travellers arriving at Cairo International Airport can purchase digital visas on arrival, either at self-service machines or on the Visa on Arrival online portal. These are only payable by card and cost $36 (including a $6 service fee).
You do not need to buy a visa from an agent at the airport – many agents charge more than $30 USD. If you are harassed by an agent, report it to the tourist police in the airport terminal.
Another option is to apply for a tourist visa ahead of your stay – either in person or by post – from an Egyptian Consulate outside of Egypt.
If you are travelling into Sharm el Sheikh and staying at either Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba resorts for up to 15 days, you do not need a visa, and you’ll be given a free entry permission stamp on your arrival. If you plan to travel outside these areas or stay longer than 15 days, you must get a visa. If you enter Egypt without a visa while travelling to one of the South Sinai Red Sea resorts and then your plans change, you can usually buy a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport to enable you to travel elsewhere.
Passport Validity for Egypt Travel
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date in Egypt and must have at least one blank page.
Other Important Formalities
Various prescribed and over-the-counter medicines available in the UK are not allowed into Egypt without prior permission from the country’s Ministry of Health. Without the required permission and documentation, the medication cannot be brought in, and you risk being prosecuted under Egyptian law.
For prescription medication, ensure you carry a medical certificate from your GP that confirms the condition you’re being treated for, the amount of medication you’re carrying and that the medication is for your personal use and has been prescribed for health reasons.
For the most up-to-date travel information, please visit the FCDO website.
