If you’re a British traveler dreaming of the pyramids at sunrise, a Nile cruise, or a Red Sea diving escape, one of the first questions you’ll face is simple: Do UK nationals need a visa for Egypt?
After 10+ years of helping travelers prepare successful Egypt trips, I can tell you that the visa process is actually much easier than most first-time visitors expect. The key is knowing which visa to choose, how to apply, and what to avoid, so you don’t hit unexpected delays at the border or waste time searching for last-minute solutions.
This comprehensive guide breaks everything down step-by-step — from the Egypt e-Visa for British citizens to visa-on-arrival tips, supporting documents, processing times, practical travel advice, and real examples from travelers I’ve personally helped.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly which visa option fits your trip and how to get it without stress.
What Visa Do British Citizens Need to Enter Egypt?
UK passport holders do need a visa to enter Egypt, whether the trip is for tourism, business, or a short holiday. You can get a visa in three main ways:
1. Egypt eVisa (Highly Recommended)
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
3. Embassy Visa (for complex or long-stay needs)
For most British travellers, the eVisa is the fastest, safest, and most convenient option. It prevents long queues at the airport and gives you entry permission before you travel.
When clients ask me which to choose, I usually say:
“If you want peace of mind and smooth entry, apply for the eVisa from home.”
It simply saves time — especially during high season when flights from the UK arrive in waves.
This article focuses mainly on the Egypt visa for British citizens through the eVisa route, because that’s what travelers prefer 90% of the time.
Why the Egypt e-Visa Is the Best Choice for British Travelers
For UK citizens, the Egypt eVisa checks all the boxes: convenience, speed, and predictable requirements.
Here’s why I recommend it every day:
✔ Fast online application
Most applicants finish the form in under 10 minutes.
✔ No airport queues
During peak months (October–April), the visa-on-arrival line can take 45–90 minutes.
✔ Simple requirements
You only need a valid passport, travel details, and a basic itinerary.
✔ Accepted at all major airports
Whether you’re landing in Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or Luxor, the eVisa works everywhere.(Look at here)
✔ Secure official application system
You apply through the Egypt government eVisa portal, which protects your data and gives a digital approval.
Types of Egypt eVisa for British Citizens
There are two eVisa types available:
1. Single-Entry eVisa
- Stay: Up to 30 days
- Validity: 90 days from issuance
- Best for holidaymakers or one-time business trips.
2. Multiple-Entry eVisa
- Stay: Up to 30 days per visit
- Validity: 180 days from issuance
- Ideal for travellers planning multiple trips in one season (common for divers, long-term visitors, and business passengers).
Most UK tourists choose the single-entry option unless they frequently travel to Egypt.
Step-by-Step Guide: How British Citizens Can Apply for the Egypt e-Visa
Below is the exact process I recommend to my clients. Follow this, and your eVisa approval should arrive smoothly.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
- A UK passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date
- A digital passport-style photo (not always required but recommended)
- Travel details: accommodation name and address
- A valid email address to receive your visa
- A bank card for payment (debit or credit)
Pro Tip:
Make sure your passport is not damaged, chipped, or peeling—Egyptian immigration officers are strict about passport condition.
Step 2: Apply Online Through Our Portal
You’ll fill out a short form covering:
- Personal information
- Passport details
- Purpose of travel
- Accommodation
- Arrival and departure dates
Most applicants finish in 5–10 minutes.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Standard government fees (subject to change):
- Single-entry: 59 USD
- Multiple-entry: 119 USD
The portal accepts major debit and credit cards.
Step 4: Receive Your Approval by Email
Processing usually takes:
- 5–7 working days
You’ll receive a PDF eVisa by email. Print at least two copies and keep a digital backup on your phone.
Step 5: Present Your eVisa Upon Arrival
At the airport, simply show:
- Your printed eVisa
- Your UK passport
The immigration officer will stamp your passport and welcome you in.
Visa on Arrival for British Citizens — Pros & Cons
UK citizens can get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Egyptian airports.
But after assisting thousands of travelers, I only recommend it in specific cases—such as when the traveler didn’t have time to apply online.
Pros
- No online application required
- Same price as the eVisa
Cons
- Long queues during peak season
- Payment sometimes cash only (USD notes must be clean and recent)
- No guarantee you won’t be asked extra questions
- Not ideal for tight connections or late-night arrivals
If you’re travelling as a family with kids, I strongly recommend choosing the eVisa, not the VoA. The airport line alone can eat up the first hour of your holiday.
Egypt Embassy Visa for UK Citizens
You only need an embassy-issued visa if:
- You’re staying longer than 30 days
- You’re working, studying, or relocating
- You have unique circumstances (e.g., urgent travel with an expired passport that needs special approval)
This option takes longer and requires visiting the Egyptian Embassy in London.
Documentation Requirements for the Egypt Visa (UK Citizens)
Whether applying online or at the airport, British citizens should prepare the following:
Required Documents
- UK passport, valid 6+ months
- Travel itinerary
- Accommodation details
- Return flight ticket
- Payment card or cash for fees
Optional but Helpful Documents
- Travel insurance
- Tour agency booking confirmation
- Invitation letter (for business travelers)
In my experience, travelers who bring printed confirmations move through immigration smoother than those who rely solely on their phones.
Common Reasons British Travellers Get Visa Rejections (and How to Avoid Them)
Although Egypt accepts most eVisa applications, certain issues can cause delays or refusals. After helping UK travellers for a decade, I’ve seen these patterns repeat:
1. Passport validity less than 6 months
Egypt will not accept your entry.
2. Typos in the application
Especially in:
- Passport number
- Names
- Dates
These small errors can cause automatic rejection.
3. Low-quality passport scan
If the system can’t read your details, the visa won’t be approved.
4. Unclear travel purpose
Avoid vague or contradictory answers.
5. Submitting a damaged passport
Peeling covers or torn pages often cause issues.
If you avoid these mistakes, your approval rate is extremely high.
Real Example: How One British Traveller Saved Time With an eVisa
A client named Thomas from Manchester contacted me after standing in a 1-hour visa-on-arrival queue during his first trip. For his second trip, he applied for the eVisa in advance.
He later told me:
“I walked straight from the plane to the taxi in under 15 minutes. I’ll never queue again.”
This is exactly why I recommend the eVisa for British citizens — especially families, couples on holiday, first-time visitors, and anyone landing in Cairo.
Travel Tips for British Citizens Visiting Egypt
To make your trip smoother, here are insights I’ve gathered from assisting travellers over the years:
1. Keep Your Passport Accessible
You’ll show it at:
- Immigration
- Hotel check-in
- Domestic flights
- Some tourist attractions
2. Carry Small Cash
Egypt uses a mix of cash and card payments. Some vendors still prefer cash.
3. Avoid Airport Touts
Politely decline offers for taxis or “assistance services.” Instead, use official airport taxis or Uber/Careem where available.
4. Dress Comfortably
Egypt is warm most of the year. Light clothes and comfortable shoes are essential — especially for visiting ancient sites.
5. Stay Hydrated
The sun is stronger than many visitors expect.
Getting an Egypt visa for British citizens is simple when you know the right steps. The eVisa is the easiest and most reliable option, especially for tourists and short-term visitors. With the correct documents and a few minutes online, you can secure your entry permit without unnecessary airport stress.
If you’re planning a trip soon, don’t wait until the last minute.
Apply for your Egypt eVisa now and travel with confidence.
If you need help preparing your application or want personalized guidance, I’m here anytime.
FAQs
Can British citizens get a visa on arrival in Egypt?
Yes, UK travelers can buy a visa on arrival, but the eVisa is faster and avoids long airport queues.
How long does it take to get the Egypt e-Visa?
Most British citizens receive approval in 5–7 working days.
How long can UK citizens stay in Egypt with the e-Visa?
The Egypt eVisa allows stays of up to 30 days per visit.
