This page has information on travelling to Egypt.
This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Egypt set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Egypt’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate.
All travellers
All travellers should familiarise themselves with the entry rules for Egypt before travel.
COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, you should check the specifics, with your airline before you travel.
If you’re fully vaccinated
Entry requirements for Egypt are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.
Proof of vaccination status
You don’t need to provide proof of your vaccination status for entry to Egypt.
If you’re not fully vaccinated
Entry requirements for Egypt are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.
Children and young people
There are no specific requirements for children and young people.
If you’re transiting through Egypt
There are no transiting requirements for travel through Egypt.
Check your passport and travel documents before you travel
Passport validity
If you are visiting Egypt your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Visas
British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa.
You can get a visa before you travel from the official Visa2Egypt portal or your nearest Egyptian consulate. Tourist visas granted using the e-visa system are valid for a maximum of 3 months. It is advisable to get a visa before you travel, particularly if travelling for work or business.
If you wish to get a visa on arrival, you can do so at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. The visa fee is US$25, payable in US dollars as the preferred currency, although you may also be able to pay in pounds sterling or euros. Visas granted on arrival are valid for a maximum of 30 days. There’s no need to buy a visa from an agent. In many cases agents will charge more than US$25 for a visa. If you’re harassed by an agent, report the incident to the tourist police in the airport terminal.
If you’re travelling to Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts for up to 15 days, you will receive a free entry permission stamp upon arrival. If you intend to travel out of these areas or stay longer than 15 days, you must get a visa.
If you have travelled to one of the South Sinai Red Sea resorts, entered without a visa and your plans have changed, you can normally purchase a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport to allow you to travel elsewhere.
Applications for visa extensions should be made at Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. You may have difficulties leaving Egypt with an out of date visa. You will not normally be allowed to leave without paying a fine if your visa is out of date by more than 14 days.
For further information and enquiries, contact the Egyptian Consulate in London.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are accepted for exit from Egypt, but not accepted for entry or transit. To leave Egypt on an ETD you will need to visit an Egyptian Passport and Immigration Office to complete the exit formalities. Some passport offices outside of Cairo may assist, but in many cases you will have to complete the formalities at the Passport and Immigration Office, 12 Al Seka Al Bayda, Sarayat, Waily, Abbassia, (next to the Abbassia Police Academy), Cairo. Tel: 00227956301. Opening hours for the office are 8am to 2.30pm, Saturday to Thursday. Immigration clearance may take up to 5 working days for tourists and up to 2 weeks for residents. You should adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Yellow fever certificate requirements
Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.
Previous travel to Israel
Evidence of a previous visit to Israel like as an Israeli entry/exit stamp in your passport does not normally cause any difficulties when entering Egypt. It is, however, for the Egyptian authorities to determine the right of entry into the country. If you have any concerns, you should contact the Egyptian consulate.
Work permits
Evidence of testing for HIV is required if you are applying for a work permit.
Medication
Some prescribed and over the counter medicines that are available in the UK are considered controlled substances in Egypt and can’t be brought into the country without prior permission from Egypt’s Ministry of Health. If you arrive in Egypt without this permission and the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed into the country and you may be prosecuted under Egyptian law.
If you’re travelling with prescription medication you should carry a medical certificate confirming that the medication has been prescribed for a medical condition. The Egyptian Embassy website states that this should be in the form of an official letter from your GP, specifying details of your condition, the quantity of medication you will be carrying and that the medication is for your personal use only.
For further information and specific queries, including what medications are not permitted in Egypt, please contact the Egyptian Embassy in London.
Customs regulations
There’s a limit of 5,000 Egyptian pounds that you are allowed to bring in or take out of Egypt. There is no limit to the amount of hard currency that you may bring in, but sums that exceed USD 10,000 should be declared on arrival. Certain valuables like electrical equipment, video cameras etc must be declared on arrival. Satellite phones and radio communications equipment brought into Egypt without prior clearance from the Ministry of Telecommunications are likely to be confiscated. Electrical items noted in passports on entry to Egypt must be produced on exit from the country. Failure to do so will result in payment of high rates of customs duty. Contact the Egyptian embassy in your country of residence for further information on customs requirements.
FAQs
Do I need PCR test to travel to Egypt? ›
Egypt. All health restrictions related to Covid-19 for all passengers traveling to Egypt on all carriers are lifted (vaccination certificate and/or PCR or antigen tests).
What are the Covid rules for Egypt? ›You should follow the guidance of the local authorities. The wearing of face masks is mandatory in closed public spaces, including government buildings, private offices, malls, retail outlets and public transport including private taxis. Legal penalties could be applied for non-compliance.
What documents do I need to go to Egypt? ›U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Egypt. U.S. citizens can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for a 25 USD fee. A multiple entry visa is also obtainable for 60 USD.
Can you go on holiday to Egypt from UK? ›Before travelling you should familiarise yourself with the entry requirements for Egypt. Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance, and follow the latest COVID-19 requirements. See health for more information, including what to do if you need to bring prescription or over-the-counter medication into Egypt.
Can I use NHS PCR test before travel? ›England or Wales: the NHS COVID pass app shows proof of recovery from prior COVID-19 infection for those who have tested positive with an NHS PCR test in the last 180 days. You'll need to check if this type of documentation would be accepted as evidence of previous infection by your airline and destination country.
Do I need to fill out a health form for Egypt? ›Under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and the Egyptian Quarantine law, this Public Health Declaration Form is a mandatory document and aims to protect your health. Your information will help public health officers contact you if you were exposed to a communicable disease.
Do you need a Covid pass for Egypt? ›COVID test is not required when arriving in Egypt.
Does Egypt Air need Covid test? ›Passengers traveling to Egypt are not required to take a COVID-19 test to fly to Egypt. Egypt's COVID-19 entry restrictions were lifted on June 17, 2022.
Do I need vaccinations for Egypt Sharm el Sheikh? ›Courses or boosters usually advised: Poliomyelitis; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid.
Do I need proof of travel insurance for Egypt? ›Do I need travel insurance for Egypt? Yes, during the coronavirus pandemic, Egypt has made travel insurance compulsory for visitors. You'll need to show proof at the airport, so make sure you have your policy to hand on arrival. Travel insurance can cover medical costs, holiday cancellations, lost luggage and theft.
Does Egypt require proof of travel insurance? ›
For international travelers to visit Egypt, they must provide proof of travel insurance to enter.
Do I need an EHIC card for Egypt? ›Healthcare in Egypt is not free and you or your insurance company will have to pay for any medical treatment you receive. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not cover the costs of medical treatment in Egypt. Healthcare in Egypt can be expensive, so we recommend you have travel insurance.
Is Egypt OK to travel to? ›Reconsider travel to Egypt due to terrorism. Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to the Embassy's limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained. Do not travel to: The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism.
Do I need a PCR test to enter UK? ›When you travel to England, you: do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before you travel. do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before you travel or after you arrive. do not need to quarantine when you arrive.
Can you travel safely to Egypt? ›Egypt no longer has Covid-related travel restrictions. For entry into Egypt though, you'll need at least six months of validity left on your passport. You'll also need to apply for a tourist visa for visiting most of the country.
How many days do I need a PCR test before travel? ›This service is suitable if you need to travel within 24-72 hours of the test. Search the country entry requirement page for more information.
Do you have to pay for a PCR test? ›Free testing for coronavirus (Covid-19) from the NHS has now ended for most people in England. If you still want to get tested and you're not eligible for a free NHS test, you must pay for a Covid-19 test yourself. You can buy a Covid-19 test from some pharmacies and retailers, in person or online.
Can I use free lateral flow test for travel? ›No, free NHS Rapid Tests cannot be used for international travel.
What kind of insurance do I need to travel to Egypt? ›Medical travel insurance is the only coverage required in order for a traveler to enter Egypt, however, most travel insurance policies are comprehensive and include a variety of other benefits, without increasing the cost of a policy. This includes coverage for travel delays and lost or delayed luggage.
Do I need travel insurance for Egypt from UK? ›As there are no reciprocal healthcare agreements in place between the UK and Egypt, it's especially important to have travel insurance with enough cover for any medical expenses you incur if you fall ill or are injured while you're in the country.
What is declaration form in airport? ›
The Government of India first introduced the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form for international travel in August 2020 to track potential covid cases due to international travel. Indian Nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI cardholders) do not need a visa to enter India.
Is NHS Covid pass valid for travel? ›You can show the vaccination records in your NHS COVID Pass as proof of your COVID-19 status when travelling abroad. Proof of recovery from prior COVID-19 infection if you have tested positive with an NHS PCR test in the last 180 days is also shown.
Are face masks required in Egypt? ›Face masks are mandatory for workers or visitors at markets, shops, banks, and governmental and private institutions. Citizens taking public or private transportation must also wear face masks. Violators are punishable by a fine of 4,000 Egyptian pounds (about US$249).
How much baggage is allowed on Egyptair? ›Class type | Checked Baggage Allowance | |
---|---|---|
Number of Pieces | Maximum Weight Per Piece | |
Economy Class | 1 piece | 23 kgs / 50 lbs |
Business Class | 1 piece+ 1 extra piece | 32 kgs / 70 lbs |
Economy Class | 1 piece+ 1 extra piece | 23 kgs / 50 lbs |
Beverages. One disappointment for many passengers on Egyptair is that there is no alcohol on board. For religious reasons, Egyptair does not serve alcohol to anyone on any of its flights.
What documents do I need for Sharm el Sheikh? ›If you are travelling to Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and 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 out of these areas or stay longer than 15 days, you must get a visa.
Can Brits travel to Sharm el Sheikh? ›Passports & Visas
As a British citizen, you must have a valid passport and a visa to enter Egypt. For a small fee, you can apply through our visa and travel authorisation partner – Sherpa. If you're only travelling to Taba and/or Sharm el Sheikh, you won't need a visa.
On 17 June 2022, all COVID-19 measures were lifted. This means that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people are allowed to travel to Egypt. Therefore, you do not need to show proof of vaccination before travelling.
Do I need to print my travel insurance? ›No, it's not essential to take copies of your travel insurance documents with you. It's a good idea though to jot down your policy number and, more importantly, have our 24 hour assistance telephone number with you, so you can contact us if you need our help while you're away.
Is Egypt covered by European travel insurance? ›Is Egypt classed as Europe for travel insurance? Egypt is classed as part of Europe for Admiral Travel Insurance, so you'll be covered with our European Travel Insurance.
Can you get a visa on arrival at Hurghada airport? ›
If you wish to get a visa on arrival, you can do so at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. The visa fee is US$25, payable in US dollars as the preferred currency, although you may also be able to pay in pounds sterling or euros.
Can I take my medication to Egypt? ›An official letter from your GP is required, specifying that the medication you are taking to Egypt is for your personal use only, the quantity you will be carrying, and details of your condition. Please note that any medication containing Methadone is NOT permitted into Egypt.
Is the EHIC card still valid in 2022? ›Valid EHICs can still be used by UK nationals living in the UK to get free or discounted medical treatment in EU countries and Switzerland. According to figures from the NHS, 5.6 million EHICs are due to expire in 2022. Ensure yours is valid before you go away – if it's not, you'll normally need to apply for the GHIC.
How long does it take to get a GHIC card in 2022? ›Your card can take up to 15 working days to arrive. You do not need to contact us or apply for your card to be reissued, if you've not received your card and it's not been 15 working days since you applied.
What do you need instead of EHIC? ›For most people, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) replaces the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for new applications.
Is Hurghada better than Sharm El Sheikh? ›Both places are definitely worth a visit and offer many excursions and activities as well as diving schools. I would say Hurghada is for those looking for more action, Sharm El Sheikh for a quieter holiday or with a focus on diving and snorkelling.
What is the safest way to visit Egypt? ›- Avoid large crowds of people and political demonstrations.
- Travel in small groups and avoid walking alone, especially at night.
- Secure your valuables and don't carry excessive amounts of cash.
- Be wary of scams at tourist sites.
- Dress conservatively, especially at religious sites.
The Distance from Sharm El Sheikh to Pyramids is 500 KM. The journey may take up to 7 hours, our guide will be waiting for you upon arrival in Cairo at the bus station.
Do I need a PCR or antigen to enter UK? ›You no longer need to take any coronavirus (COVID-19) tests when you arrive in the UK from abroad. If you have further questions, call our contact centre: 0151 676 0491 from the UK.
Do I need a PCR test to enter UK from Europe? ›This updates the news item of 15 March 2022
No traveller arriving in the UK will need to take COVID-19 tests or complete a passenger locator form.
Is a lateral flow test an antigen test? ›
Lateral flow antigen tests are rapid turnaround virus tests that can process COVID-19 samples on site, without the need for laboratory equipment. Most produces easy-to-understand results in under half an hour. Because of this, they can be performed in a laboratory or a point of care setting.
When Egypt will be removed from red list? ›In his statement the Minister confirmed that Kenya, Oman, Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Egypt will be removed from the red list at 4am on Wednesday 22 September.
What should I wear in Egypt? ›Light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. Just remember to cover up from your shoulders to below the knee. While women are expected to dress more conservatively than men, even the fellas should leave the short shorts and tight singlets at home.
Do I need PCR from Germany to Egypt? ›Travellers are required to register before entry, provide a negative PCR-test result and quarantine for 14 days. Detailed requirements are specified below. For travellers entering from other countries (no prior stay in an area of variant of concern) no special requirements apply on entry.
Do I need a PCR before travelling overseas? ›You no longer need to get a COVID-19 test before you travel to Australia, regardless of your vaccination or citizen status. But it is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the rules of the airline or cruise operator you're travelling with, and any countries that you transit through.
Do I need PCR from Dubai to Egypt? ›Before you book. All passengers travelling to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests.
Do I need a PCR for travel? ›You do not need to take any COVID-19 travel tests or self-isolate on arrival in England if you qualify as fully vaccinated. The testing and quarantine rules for international travel to England will change 11 February 2022. You can now choose a lateral flow test or a PCR test as your post arrival test.
Can I use NHS PCR-test to travel abroad? ›You can get an NHS COVID Pass for travel if you've had a positive NHS PCR test in the past 6 months (not available in the Isle of Man). The NHS COVID Pass based on a positive NHS PCR test is available 10 days after the test and is valid for 180 days after the test.
How long is PCR-test valid for travel? ›This service is suitable if you need to travel within 24-72 hours of the test. Search the country entry requirement page for more information.
Do I need a PCR to travel with Turkish? ›There is no requirement of vaccination certificate and/or pcr or antigen tests. Mask requirements on board depend upon the regulations set by the destination country. Wearing a mask on international flights to Türkiye is at the passenger's discretion.
Is the PCR test 72 hours prior to flight? ›
Not all countries want an antigen RT-PCR test, some are happy with a rapid antigen test, aka LFT. Select the appropriate time. Whilst most countries expect 72 hours prior to departure, some may want 48 hours prior to arrival. If posting yourself, choose an appropriate courier.
When should I get a PCR test? ›Key times to get tested: If you have symptoms, test immediately. If you were exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before testing. If you test too early, you may be more likely to get an inaccurate result.
Do you need a PCR even if you are vaccinated Middle East airline? ›NO PCR test is required upon arrival.
How much is PCR test for travel in Dubai? ›PCR test for AED150.
Do I need to wear a mask in Egypt? ›Do I need to wear a face mask in Egypt? Wearing face masks is required in some public places.
How much is PCR test for travel? ›Traveller COVID-19 RT-PCR tests cost R500.
What type of PCR is needed for travel? ›International travel requires an RT-PCR test
Most countries require a negative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test for entry. When booking your appointment, select COVID19 RT-PCR for travel.