From the majestic Pyramids of Giza and the historic Valley of the Kings to the world-class diving resorts of the Red Sea, Egypt remains a bucket-list destination for British travelers. However, before you pack your bags for Cairo or Sharm El Sheikh, understanding the entry requirements is essential.
For British passport holders, the Egypt eVisa is the most efficient and streamlined way to secure your entry permit. This guide covers everything from eligibility and fees to the different processing speeds available for your trip.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Egypt?
Yes. UK citizens are required to have a visa to enter Egypt for tourism purposes. While a "Visa on Arrival" is available at some airports, the electronic visa (eVisa) system was introduced to modernize the process, allowing travelers to skip the long bank queues at the airport and arrive with peace of mind.
Before applying, ensure your country is on the Egypt eVisa eligible countries list (the UK is fully eligible).
Types of eVisas Available
Depending on your travel plans, you can choose between:
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Single-Entry eVisa: Valid for 90 days, allowing a maximum stay of 30 days.
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Multiple-Entry eVisa: Valid for 180 days, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit.
Egypt eVisa Requirements for British Travelers
To ensure a successful application, you will need:
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A British Passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
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A digital scan of the passport’s biographical page.
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A confirmed travel itinerary and hotel booking details.
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A valid credit or debit card for the visa fees.
Egypt eVisa Costs & Processing Timeframes
One of the most important aspects of your travel planning is timing. Depending on how soon you are departing, you can choose from three distinct processing tiers. The total cost consists of the mandatory Egypt eVisa government fees plus a service fee based on your chosen speed.
| Service Tier | Processing Time | Best For |
| Normal Processing | 7 to 9 Days | Travelers planning well in advance. |
| Rush Processing | 5 to 6 Days | Travelers departing within a week. |
| Super Rush | 3 to 4 Days | Last-minute or emergency travel. |
Note: It is always recommended to apply at least 10 days before your flight to account for any unexpected administrative delays.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your Egypt eVisa
The online application is designed to be user-friendly. Follow these steps to secure your travel authorization:
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Registration: Begin by visiting the Egypt eVisa registration page to create your secure traveler account.
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Form Completion: Provide your personal details, passport information, and travel dates. You can complete your application by uploading the required digital documents.
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Payment: Pay the government and service fees using a secure online payment gateway.
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Download: Once approved, your eVisa will be sent via email as a PDF. You should print a copy to present to immigration officers upon arrival.
Tracking Your Application
After submission, you don't have to wonder about the status of your visa. You can easily check the progress of your document by visiting the Egypt eVisa application status page and entering your reference details.
The "Sinai Only" Stamp: A Note for UK Tourists
If you are a UK citizen flying directly to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba and staying for less than 15 days, you may be eligible for a free "Sinai Only" entry stamp.
Important: If you plan to leave the Sinai Peninsula to visit Cairo (the Pyramids), Luxor, or Alexandria, the Sinai stamp is not valid. In these cases, you must obtain a full Egypt eVisa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I extend my stay in Egypt?
Tourist eVisas are generally not extendable online. If you need to stay longer than 30 days, you must visit the Egyptian Passport and Immigration Office in Cairo.
Is the eVisa valid for land borders?
Yes, the Egypt eVisa is accepted at air, sea, and land border crossings.
What happens if my application is rejected?
Rejections usually happen due to typos or blurry passport scans. Always double-check that your details match your passport exactly before submitting the form.
Final Thoughts
Securing your Egypt eVisa is the final step toward an unforgettable North African adventure. By choosing the right processing speed—whether it's the Normal (7-9 days) or the Super Rush (3-4 days)—you can ensure that your travel documents are ready exactly when you need them.