Egypt, a land steeped in history and brimming with archaeological marvels, continues to captivate the imaginations of travelers from across the globe.1 For those holding passports from the United Kingdom and the United States, understanding the specific visa regulations is the first step towards exploring the pyramids, cruising the Nile, and diving in the Red Sea. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Egypt visa for British citizens and the Egypt visa for US citizens
, outlining the current requirements and application processes.
As of May 10, 2025, British citizens generally require a visa to enter Egypt for tourism purposes.2 Fortunately, the Egyptian government offers several convenient options for obtaining the necessary travel authorization.
Visa Options for British Citizens:
Visa on Arrival: British citizens can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at most Egyptian ports of entry, including major international airports like Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada.3 This visa typically grants a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days for tourism.4 When opting for a visa on arrival, it is essential to have USD $25 in cash for the visa fee. Be prepared for potential queues at immigration counters, and ensure you complete the arrival card accurately.
E-Visa (Electronic Visa): An increasingly popular option for British citizens is the e-Visa. This online application process allows travelers to secure their visa before departure.5 To apply for an e-Visa, you will need to visit the official Egyptian e-Visa portal, complete the online application form, upload a scanned copy of your valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of entry), and a recent passport-sized digital photograph. A valid credit or debit card is required to pay the visa fee online. There are two main types of e-Visas available:
Single-entry e-Visa: Valid for a single entry into Egypt for tourism or business, allowing a maximum stay of 30 days within a 90-day period from the date of issue. The consular fee for a single-entry e-Visa is typically around USD $25.
Multiple-entry e-Visa: Suitable for travelers planning multiple visits to Egypt within a 180-day period from the date of issue, with each individual stay not exceeding 30 days. The consular fee for a multiple-entry e-Visa is approximately USD $60.
It is advisable for British citizens to apply for the e-Visa at least four business days before their intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. Once approved, the e-Visa confirmation will be sent to the provided email address and should be printed out and presented to the Egyptian immigration authorities upon arrival, along with your valid passport.6
Special Considerations for Sinai Peninsula:
For British citizens intending to limit their visit to the Sinai Peninsula (including popular destinations like Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Taba, Nuweiba, Ras Sidr, St. Catherine, and El-Tur), a free "Sinai Only" entry permit can be obtained upon arrival at designated entry points within the Sinai region. This permit allows a stay of up to 15 days and is non-renewable. However, holders of this permit are not permitted to travel outside the Sinai region. If your itinerary includes exploring other parts of Egypt, a regular visa (either obtained on arrival or through the e-Visa system) is necessary.
Required Documents for British Citizens:
Regardless of the chosen visa application method, British citizens should ensure they possess the following:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of arrival in Egypt and at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
A printed copy of the e-Visa approval (if applicable).
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
A copy of your flight itinerary (arrival and departure details).
Confirmation of your hotel or accommodation bookings.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of your stay in Egypt.
Similar to their British counterparts, US citizens also generally require a visa to enter Egypt for tourism purposes as of May 10, 2025.7 The Egyptian government offers comparable options for obtaining this travel document.
Visa Options for US Citizens:
Visa on Arrival: US citizens can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at most Egyptian airports and other ports of entry.8 This visa is typically valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days for tourism. The visa fee is currently USD $25, payable in cash upon arrival.9 Be prepared for potential waiting times at immigration and ensure you complete the arrival card accurately.
E-Visa (Electronic Visa): The e-Visa system provides a convenient pre-departure option for US citizens.10 The application process mirrors that for British citizens: complete the online form on the official Egyptian e-Visa portal, upload a scanned copy of your valid US passport (with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay) and a recent digital passport photograph.11 Payment of the visa fee is made online using a valid credit or debit card. The e-Visa is available in two forms:
Single-entry e-Visa: Permits a single entry into Egypt for tourism or business, with a maximum stay of 30 days within a 90-day period from the date of issue. The consular fee is typically around USD $25.
Multiple-entry e-Visa: Allows multiple entries into Egypt within a 180-day period from the date of issue, with each stay not exceeding 30 days.12 This option is ideal for those planning multiple trips to Egypt. The consular fee for a multiple-entry e-Visa is approximately USD $60.
US citizens are advised to apply for the e-Visa at least four business days prior to their travel date to ensure timely processing. Once approved, the e-Visa confirmation will be emailed and should be printed and presented along with your valid US passport upon arrival in Egypt.
Special Considerations for Sinai Peninsula:
US citizens visiting only the Sinai Peninsula (Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Taba, Nuweiba, Ras Sidr, St. Catherine, and El-Tur) can also obtain a free "Sinai Only" entry permit upon arrival at entry points within the Sinai region. This permit allows a maximum stay of 15 days and is non-renewable. Travelers with this permit are restricted from traveling outside the designated Sinai area. For exploration beyond the Sinai, a standard visa is required.
Required Documents for US Citizens:
Whether opting for a visa on arrival or the e-Visa, US citizens should have the following documents readily available:
A valid US passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry into Egypt and at least two blank pages.
A printed copy of the e-Visa approval (if applicable).
Travel insurance is highly recommended.
A copy of your round-trip flight itinerary.
Confirmation of your hotel or other accommodation arrangements.
Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay.
Conclusion:
For both British citizens and US citizens, obtaining a visa for tourism in Egypt is a straightforward process with the convenience of both visa-on-arrival and e-Visa options. Understanding the specific requirements and allowing ample time for processing, especially for the e-Visa, will contribute to a seamless travel experience. By ensuring all necessary documents are in order, travelers from the UK and the USA can focus on the incredible adventures that await them in the land of the Pharaohs. Remember to always verify the latest visa regulations with the official Egyptian embassy or consulate in your respective country before your travel dates, as policies can change.