Egypt visa for UK citizens is straightforward and affordable, with several options available including visa on arrival, e-visa, and free visa for eligible passport holders. This complete guide covers everything UK tourists need to know before travelling to Egypt in 2025.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?
Yes, UK citizens require a visa to enter Egypt. However, the process is simple and can be completed in multiple ways — before departure or on arrival at the airport. Most UK tourists choose either the e-visa or visa on arrival option.
Egypt Visa Options for UK Citizens
1. Egypt E-Visa — Recommended
The Egypt e-visa is the most convenient option for UK citizens travelling to Egypt. You apply online before your trip and receive your visa by email, avoiding queues at the airport.
Cost: $25 USD (single entry) or $60 USD (multiple entry)
Validity: 90 days from issue date
Stay: Up to 30 days per entry
Processing time: 3–7 business days
How to apply: Visit visa2egypt.gov.eg, complete the online form, pay by card, and receive your e-visa by email. Print it out and present it at immigration on arrival.
2. Visa on Arrival
UK citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports including Cairo International Airport, Hurghada International Airport, and Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.
Cost: $25 USD cash only
Validity: 30 days
Processing time: 10–15 minutes at the airport
Note: Always carry US dollars in cash as this is the only accepted currency for visa on arrival payments.
3. Sinai Only Visa — Free
UK citizens visiting only the Sinai Peninsula — including Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, and Taba — can obtain a free Sinai-only stamp on arrival for a 15-day stay.
Important: The Sinai-only visa does not allow travel to Cairo, Luxor, or Hurghada. If you plan to visit the Pyramids or Nile, you need a full visa.
Egypt Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
Passport validity: At least 6 months remaining from date of entry
Return ticket: Proof of onward travel
Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation
Finances: Proof of sufficient funds
Photo: Recent passport-sized photograph (for visa on arrival)
How Long Can UK Citizens Stay in Egypt?
A standard Egypt tourist visa allows UK citizens to stay for up to 30 days. Extensions can add an additional 30 days and can be arranged at the Mogamma building in Cairo or local passport offices.
Popular Tours for UK Tourists in Egypt
Cairo Pyramids & Sphinx Half-Day Tour — the most iconic Egypt experience, from $47 per person.
Cairo: Grand Egyptian Museum, Pyramids & Sphinx Tour with Lunch — the complete Cairo day tour, from $85 per person.
4-Day Nile Cruise from Aswan — sail from Aswan to Luxor visiting Egypt’s greatest ancient temples, from $450 per person.
Hurghada Orange Bay Island Boat Trip — the best Red Sea snorkeling experience, from $35 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can UK citizens get a visa on arrival in Egypt?
Yes, UK citizens can get a visa on arrival at all major Egyptian airports. The cost is $25 USD cash.
How much does an Egypt visa cost for UK citizens?
$25 USD for single entry, either on arrival or as an e-visa. Multiple entry e-visa costs $60 USD.
How long does an Egypt e-visa take?
Typically 3–7 business days. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
Is Egypt safe for UK tourists?
Egypt is safe and welcoming for UK tourists. Millions visit Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh safely every year.
