Planning a holiday in Egypt with a British passport? Before booking your flights, hotels, or sightseeing tours, make sure you understand the Egypt visa requirements for UK citizens.
Egypt attracts British travellers with its ancient monuments, the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the temples of Luxor, Nile cruises, and Red Sea resorts. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a tourist visa, or you may qualify for a limited entry arrangement in parts of South Sinai.
British citizens can generally apply for an Egyptian tourist eVisa before departure or obtain a visa on arrival at approved airports. The appropriate option depends on your destination, travel plans, and passport.
This guide explains Egypt visa requirements for UK citizens in 2026, including visa fees, passport validity, online applications, visa on arrival, Sharm El Sheikh entry rules, Hurghada requirements, and common questions travellers ask.
Important: Visa fees and entry rules can change. Confirm the latest requirements through official Egyptian and UK government sources before travelling.
Quick Answer: Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?
Yes. British citizens travelling to most parts of Egypt normally need a tourist visa.
The main options are:
- Egypt eVisa: Apply online before travelling through the official Egyptian eVisa portal.
- Visa on arrival: British passport holders can generally purchase a tourist visa at approved Egyptian airports.
- Sharm El Sheikh entry stamp: Travellers arriving at Sharm El Sheikh Airport and staying for less than 15 days within specified South Sinai resorts may qualify for a free entry permission stamp.
- Passport validity: UK government guidance states that your passport must have an expiry date at least six months after your arrival date and at least one blank page.
- Published eVisa fees: US$30 for a single-entry tourist eVisa and US$65 for a multiple-entry tourist eVisa.
- Visa on arrival: UK government guidance lists a standard physical visa at US$30, payable in cash. It also describes a digital visa-on-arrival option at Cairo International Airport for US$36, including a service fee, from 1 August 2026.
The right option depends on whether you plan to visit Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or several destinations during one trip.
Official resources:
1. Egypt Visa Requirements for British Citizens
British citizens travelling to Egypt for tourism normally need a visa unless a specific exemption applies to their trip.
For most holidays, travellers can choose between applying for an eVisa in advance and obtaining a visa on arrival at an approved airport.
An eVisa can be useful if you prefer to arrange your travel documents before leaving the UK. A visa on arrival may be convenient for eligible travellers who are comfortable completing the process at the airport.
Before choosing, consider your arrival airport, itinerary, length of stay, and whether you intend to travel beyond a limited resort area.
Your passport must meet the current validity requirements. You should also keep your accommodation details, travel itinerary, and visa documentation accessible.
For a broader overview of visa types and entry rules, read our guide to Egypt Visa Requirements.
2. Egypt eVisa for UK Citizens
An Egyptian electronic visa, or eVisa, allows eligible British citizens to apply online before departure.
The official Egyptian eVisa portal includes the United Kingdom in its list of eligible nationalities for online applications.
Applying for an eVisa before travelling can help you organize your documents in advance.
Benefits of Applying Online
Applying for an eVisa can help you:
- Complete the application before travelling.
- Submit your passport and personal details online.
- Pay the applicable fee through the official portal.
- Monitor the status of your application.
- Download and print the approved visa before departure.
- Prepare your documents before arriving at immigration.
An eVisa application is not a guarantee of approval or admission to Egypt. Wait for the official decision and check the conditions of your issued visa.
Where to Apply for an Egypt eVisa
Use the official Egyptian government portal:
Check the current application instructions, eligibility, and fees before paying.
British passport holders from British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies may have different online application eligibility. Check the UK government’s guidance if your passport is not a full British citizen passport.
3. Egypt Visa Fees for UK Citizens in 2026
The Egyptian eVisa portal publishes the following tourist visa fees:
| Visa type | Published fee |
|---|---|
| Single-entry tourist eVisa | US$30 |
| Multiple-entry tourist eVisa | US$65 |
The fees above apply to the eVisa categories published on the official portal. They may differ from fees or service charges associated with other application routes.
Visa on Arrival Fees
UK government guidance lists the standard physical visa on arrival at approved airports at US$30, payable in cash.
It also describes a digital visa-on-arrival option at Cairo International Airport for US$36, including a US$6 digital service fee, from 1 August 2026.
Because airport procedures and payment arrangements can change, confirm the current options before departure. If you plan to pay in cash, check which currency and payment methods are accepted at your arrival airport.
Official reference: UK Government – Egypt Entry Requirements.
4. Egypt Visa on Arrival for British Citizens
British citizens can generally obtain a tourist visa on arrival at approved Egyptian airports.
This option allows eligible travellers to purchase their visa after arriving in Egypt rather than completing an eVisa application in advance.
However, airport procedures, payment arrangements, and entry conditions can change.
How Does Visa on Arrival Work?
The general process is:
- Arrive at an approved Egyptian airport.
- Follow the airport’s official visa-on-arrival instructions.
- Purchase the appropriate visa using an accepted payment method.
- Proceed to immigration with your passport and visa.
- Keep your entry documentation accessible during your stay.
At Cairo International Airport, UK government guidance also describes a digital visa-on-arrival option available from 1 August 2026.
Check the latest airport procedures before travelling, especially if you intend to arrive at a smaller airport or use a land border.
Should You Apply for an eVisa or Get a Visa on Arrival?
An eVisa may suit travellers who prefer to organize their visa before departure. A visa on arrival may suit eligible visitors who prefer to complete the process at the airport.
Neither option guarantees entry. Egyptian immigration authorities make the final decision.
5. Sharm El Sheikh Visa Rules for UK Citizens
The rules for certain South Sinai resort holidays differ from the standard tourist visa requirements for the rest of Egypt.
According to UK government guidance, British passport holders arriving at Sharm El Sheikh Airport and staying for less than 15 days within the specified resorts of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba may receive a free entry permission stamp on arrival, subject to the applicable conditions.
This limited arrangement is not the same as a standard Egyptian tourist visa.
When Do You Need a Full Egyptian Visa?
You should arrange the appropriate visa if, for example:
- You plan to stay longer than 15 days.
- You intend to travel outside the resorts covered by the limited entry arrangement.
- Your itinerary includes Cairo or the Pyramids of Giza.
- You plan to visit Luxor or Aswan.
- Your travel plans otherwise fall outside the conditions of the entry stamp.
If your trip is only a short resort holiday in Sharm El Sheikh, check the current conditions before departure.
If you want to visit the Pyramids of Giza or other destinations outside the covered South Sinai resorts, do not assume that the free entry stamp is sufficient.
Official reference: UK Government – Egypt Entry Requirements.
6. Passport Requirements for British Travellers
Your passport must meet Egypt’s current entry requirements.
UK government guidance states that your passport must:
- Have an expiry date at least six months after your arrival date.
- Have at least one blank page.
Check these requirements well before departure. If your passport is close to expiry or does not have a blank page, investigate renewal before travelling.
Also check that the details on your visa application match your passport exactly.
7. Documents You May Need for an Egypt Tourist Visa
The documents required depend on the application route and your circumstances.
Prepare the following where relevant.
Valid British Passport
Ensure your passport meets the six-month validity requirement and has a blank page.
Approved eVisa or Visa-on-Arrival Documentation
If you apply online, download and print your approved eVisa as instructed by the official portal.
If you obtain a visa on arrival, follow the airport’s current procedure and retain the documentation issued to you.
Travel Itinerary
Keep your arrival and departure details available.
Hotel or Accommodation Details
The Egyptian eVisa portal lists hotel bookings or details about places to visit among the supporting information relevant to tourist travel.
Payment Method
For an eVisa, use a payment method accepted by the official portal.
For a visa on arrival, confirm the payment method available at your airport. UK government guidance lists the standard physical visa as payable in cash and describes a separate digital option at Cairo International Airport.
8. How to Apply for an Egypt eVisa from the UK
Follow these steps if you are eligible to apply online.
Step 1: Open the Official Portal
Visit Egypt’s official eVisa website.
Step 2: Register an Account
Create an account using an email address you can access.
Step 3: Select Your Visa Type
Choose the appropriate tourist visa option for your trip, taking account of whether you need single or multiple entry.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Enter your passport and personal information carefully. Check all details before submitting.
Step 5: Pay the Fee
Pay the applicable amount through the official portal and save your payment confirmation.
Step 6: Monitor the Application
Check your account and email for updates. Follow any additional instructions provided by the authorities.
Step 7: Download Your Approved Visa
Once approved, download the eVisa and print it as instructed.
Step 8: Prepare for Departure
Check your passport, visa, itinerary, accommodation details, and any other relevant travel documents.
The official portal instructs applicants to apply at least seven days before departure. Applying earlier is advisable because processing times can vary.
Official instructions: Egypt eVisa – How to Apply.
9. How Long Can UK Citizens Stay in Egypt?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or entry permission issued to you.
UK government guidance states that tourist visas obtained on arrival are valid for stays of up to 30 days. Check the validity and conditions of your own approved visa before travelling.
Do not confuse the visa’s validity period with the maximum permitted length of stay.
If you intend to stay longer than the period allowed by your visa, check the official extension procedures before your authorization expires.
Overstaying can cause problems when leaving Egypt and may result in penalties.
10. Can UK Citizens Visit Cairo and the Pyramids Without a Visa?
British citizens visiting Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza normally need a standard Egyptian tourist visa.
The limited free entry permission available to certain short-stay visitors in specified South Sinai resorts does not automatically permit travel to Cairo or the Pyramids.
If your itinerary includes Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, or other destinations beyond the covered resorts, arrange the appropriate visa before travelling or confirm the applicable visa-on-arrival option.
Once your entry arrangements are confirmed, you can plan visits to the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and other Egyptian attractions.
11. Egypt Visa for UK Citizens Visiting on a Nile Cruise
A Nile cruise is a popular way to explore Egypt’s ancient sites between Luxor and Aswan.
If you are travelling from the UK and planning a Nile cruise, make sure your visa allows you to enter Egypt and covers your intended itinerary and length of stay.
Your visa does not automatically include cruise bookings, domestic flights, archaeological-site tickets, or guided excursions.
Check the details of your travel arrangements and make sure you have sufficient time for airport transfers and embarkation.
12. Common Egypt Visa Mistakes UK Travellers Should Avoid
Applying Too Late
The eVisa portal instructs applicants to apply at least seven days before departure. Apply early enough to allow for possible delays.
Assuming the Sharm El Sheikh Entry Stamp Covers All Egypt
The limited entry arrangement applies only under specific conditions. It should not be assumed to cover Cairo, the Pyramids, or the whole country.
Confusing eVisa Fees with Airport Fees
Different application routes may have different payment procedures and service charges. Check the current fees for the option you intend to use.
Forgetting Passport Validity
Check the six-month validity requirement and blank-page condition.
Buying a Visa from an Unofficial Agent
Use the official eVisa portal or follow the airport’s official visa-on-arrival procedure. UK government guidance notes that travellers do not need to buy a visa from an agent.
Assuming Visa Approval Guarantees Entry
An approved visa does not guarantee admission. Egyptian immigration authorities make the final decision.
Relying on Outdated Information
Visa rules and airport payment procedures can change. Check official sources shortly before departure.
13. People Also Ask: Egypt Visa for UK Citizens
Do UK citizens need a visa for Egypt?
Yes. British citizens normally need a visa to visit most parts of Egypt for tourism, unless a specific exemption applies to their trip.
Can British citizens get a visa on arrival in Egypt?
Yes. British passport holders can generally purchase a tourist visa at approved Egyptian airports. Check the latest fees and airport procedures before travelling.
How much is an Egypt visa for UK citizens?
The Egyptian eVisa portal publishes US$30 for a single-entry tourist eVisa and US$65 for a multiple-entry tourist eVisa. UK government guidance lists the standard physical visa on arrival at US$30 and describes a digital visa-on-arrival option at Cairo International Airport at US$36, including a service fee. Confirm the current amount before travelling.
Can UK citizens apply for an Egypt visa online?
Yes. Eligible British citizen passport holders can apply through the official Egyptian eVisa portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg.
What is the passport validity requirement for Egypt?
UK government guidance states that your passport must expire at least six months after your arrival date and have at least one blank page.
Can British citizens visit Sharm El Sheikh without a visa?
Some British citizens arriving at Sharm El Sheikh Airport and staying for less than 15 days within specified South Sinai resorts may receive a free entry permission stamp. The arrangement does not automatically cover travel to Cairo or other destinations outside the covered area.
Can I visit the Pyramids of Giza with a Sharm El Sheikh entry stamp?
Do not assume so. The limited entry permission is for specified South Sinai resorts. Travelling to Cairo and the Pyramids normally requires an appropriate Egyptian tourist visa.
How long can British citizens stay in Egypt?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or entry permission issued. UK government guidance states that tourist visas obtained on arrival allow stays of up to 30 days. Check your own visa conditions before travelling.
Can UK citizens get a multiple-entry Egypt visa?
The official Egyptian eVisa portal lists a multiple-entry tourist eVisa option. Check the current eligibility, fee, validity, and permitted-stay conditions before applying.
Where should British citizens apply for an Egypt visa?
Use the official Egyptian eVisa portal: https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg/. You can also check the UK government’s official Egypt entry guidance at https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements.
14. More Common Questions About Egypt Visas for UK Citizens
Can I get an Egypt visa at Cairo Airport?
Yes. British passport holders can generally obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport. The standard visa and payment procedures may change, so check the latest official UK government travel advice before departure. An online eVisa is another option for eligible travellers who prefer to arrange their visa in advance.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Hurghada?
British citizens generally need an Egyptian tourist visa to visit Hurghada. The limited free entry permission available to certain visitors staying in specified South Sinai resorts does not normally cover Hurghada. Check the current requirements for your itinerary before travelling.
Can I travel to Cairo with a Sharm El Sheikh visa?
Do not assume that a free South Sinai entry permission stamp allows you to travel to Cairo. This arrangement is limited to specified areas and conditions. If you want to visit the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, or other destinations outside the covered area, confirm that you have the appropriate Egyptian tourist visa.
Is the Egypt eVisa single-entry or multiple-entry?
The Egyptian eVisa portal offers both single-entry and multiple-entry tourist visa options. The published fees are US$30 for a single-entry eVisa and US$65 for a multiple-entry eVisa. Check the current fees, validity period, and conditions on the official portal before applying.
Can I extend my tourist visa in Egypt?
An extension may be possible in certain circumstances, but approval is not automatic. Contact the relevant Egyptian immigration or passport authority before your permitted stay expires to confirm the current procedure, required documents, fees, and eligibility. Do not overstay while assuming an extension will be granted.
Can I travel to Egypt if my UK passport has less than six months remaining?
UK government travel guidance states that your passport must have an expiry date at least six months after your arrival date in Egypt. If your passport does not meet this requirement, check the official guidance and arrange a renewal before travelling rather than assuming you will be admitted.
Should I apply for an Egypt eVisa before booking my holiday?
You can plan your trip in advance, but it is sensible to understand the visa requirements before making non-refundable bookings. If your trip requires an eVisa, apply early and allow time for processing. The Egyptian eVisa portal instructs applicants to apply at least seven days before departure.
Can I use an Egypt eVisa to visit Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada on the same trip?
A tourist visa may cover a multi-destination holiday, provided your visa remains valid and your itinerary complies with its conditions. Check the permitted stay and entry conditions on your approved visa. Remember that the visa does not automatically include domestic flights, accommodation, cruise bookings, or attraction tickets.
15. Final Checklist Before Travelling from the UK to Egypt
Before departure, make sure you have:
- Checked the visa requirements for your exact itinerary.
- Confirmed whether an eVisa or visa on arrival is appropriate.
- Checked that your passport expires at least six months after arrival.
- Confirmed that your passport has at least one blank page.
- Received your eVisa approval if applying online.
- Printed the approved eVisa if required.
- Checked the current fees and payment methods.
- Confirmed whether a limited South Sinai entry stamp applies to your trip.
- Prepared your accommodation details and travel itinerary.
- Checked the latest official government advice before departure.
Egypt offers a remarkable combination of ancient history, cultural experiences, Nile cruises, and Red Sea holidays. Preparing your visa documents in advance can help you plan your trip with greater confidence.
For more information about visa types, eligibility, and entry procedures, read our complete guide to Egypt Visa Requirements.
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