This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Egypt’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Egypt set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK.
\n\nTo enter Egypt, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nBritish passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa.
\n\nIf you are arriving by air to Sharm El-Sheikh and staying for less than 15 days at resorts in Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you do not need a visa. You will get a free entry permission stamp on arrival at Sharm El-Sheikh Airport. If you plan to travel outside the resorts or stay more than 15 days, you must get a visa. You can get a visa at Sharm El-Sheikh Airport or online.
\n\nIf you arrive in South Sinai by land through the Taba Border Crossing, see ‘Entering Egypt from Israel’.
\n\nYou can apply for a visa:
\n\nStarting from 1 August 2026, travellers arriving at Cairo International Airport can also purchase digital visas on arrival (card payment only) via self-service machines or the Visa on Arrival portal for 36 US dollars, including a 6 US dollar digital service fee.
\n\nBritish passport holders from British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies cannot apply online.
\n\nYou can apply for a visa extension at the Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. If you try to leave Egypt on an expired visa, you may face difficulties, including a fine if your visa has expired by more than 14 days. Contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK for more information.
\n\nYou do not need to buy a visa from an agent. Agents often charge more than the required 30 US dollars. If an agent harasses you, report the incident to the tourist police in the airport terminal.
\n\nYou may be denied entry if your gender expression or physical appearance does not match the sex marker in your passport or your passport photograph. See general advice for LGBT+ travellers
\n\nIf you plan to cross the border from Israel into Egypt at Taba, we recommend you bring at least 170 US dollars (cash) per person, with some extra US dollars in cash to cover any further expenses. Since early March 2026, border crossing charges at Taba have been subject to increases at short notice.
\n\nIf staying in Taba, travellers will need to pay a border tax of 20 US dollars. The border tax allows you to obtain an entry permission stamp for a stay of up to 15 days
\nIf travelling further than Taba, including to Sharm El-Sheikh, but remaining within the Sinai Peninsula, travellers will need to pay a border tax of 120 US dollars. The border tax allows you to obtain an entry permission stamp for a stay of up to 15 days
\nIf travelling beyond the Sinai Peninsula, including to fly from airports such as Cairo and Hurghada, travellers will need to pay a border tax of 120 US dollars and purchase a standard entry visa for 30 US dollars. At Taba, this entry visa also requires a “letter of guarantee”, provided by travel agents and costing around 20 US dollars. Both the visa and the “letter of guarantee” can be purchased at the Border Crossing
\nIf travelling by car through the Taba Border Crossing, you may also be required to pay 100 US dollars, with additional charges for parking.
\n\nPlease note that ATMs at the Taba Border Crossing are unreliable and frequently run out of cash. Travellers should obtain US dollars before travelling or in Eilat before arriving at the Crossing as all payments are required in cash.
\n\nBorder officials may ask travellers to remove hats, coats or other items of clothing, including religious clothing, as they pass through the Taba Border Crossing terminal.
\n\nFerry services operate between Aqaba, Jordan and Taba Heights and Nuweiba in Egypt. Contact ferry operators directly for schedules and availability. Please check Travel Advice for Jordan for latest on exit requirements.
\n\nIf your stay in Sinai will exceed 15 days, or you are planning to travel in Egypt beyond the Sinai Peninsula, including to fly from mainland airports, for example Cairo or Hurghada, you will need an entry visa. If entering at Taba Heights, this costs 35 US dollars. If entering at Nuweiba, this costs 30 US dollars. Visas can be purchased at the port terminals. Travellers should obtain USD in cash before travelling given payments are often required in cash.
\n\nThe situation at the Egypt-Sudan border remains unclear. There are 2 main land border crossings, Qustul and Argeen. There is almost no infrastructure at these crossings, and it is no longer possible to obtain a visa on arrival at these locations. The Egyptian consulate is based in Wadi Halfa, 30km from the border, applications for Egyptian visas can be made here, but visa approvals can take upwards of 6 months.
\n\nThe British Embassy in Cairo does not have staff at the border and our ability to provide assistance is very limited. Travel in and from Sudan is at your own risk. See Sudan travel advice.
\n\nIf you are a British national and have crossed into Egypt from Sudan without valid documents, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for support.
\n\nTo enter Egypt, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Egypt guide.
\n\nYou will need to show HIV test results to apply for a work permit.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Egypt. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK for more information about customs rules.
\n\nYou can bring up to 5,000 Egyptian pounds into or out of Egypt.
\n\nYou must declare foreign currency worth more than 10,000 US dollars on arrival – there is no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring.
\n\nYou should declare high value electronic devices and recording equipment when you arrive. Officials are likely to confiscate satellite phones or radio communications equipment unless you have prior clearance from the Ministry of Telecommunications.
\n\n","safety_html":"Approximately one million British people travel to Egypt each year. Most visits are trouble-free. This guide also has safety advice for regions of Egypt.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt.
\nTerrorist attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Be vigilant in crowds and large gatherings.
\n\nTargets might include:
\n\nThe authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites.
\n\nExamples of recent attacks include:
\n\nIn 2024, one Israeli-Canadian national was killed in a shooting attack in Alexandria
\nIn 2023, 2 Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide were killed in a shooting attack in Alexandria
\nIn 2022, 4 police officers and one insurgent killed in an attack on a police checkpoint in Ismailiya City
\nThe political environment in Egypt is restrictive. Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests as the situation could change quickly and without warning. Security forces have responded forcefully to protests and disturbances.
\n\nForeign nationals involved in any political activity or activities critical of the government may be at risk of detention. This includes posting negative comments on social media.
\n\nThe crime rate is generally low, but visitors should take sensible precautions as they would in the UK.
\n\nTo report a crime, phone the tourist police on 126. If you do not report a crime before you leave Egypt, it will be difficult to prosecute later.
\n\nA number of sexual assaults have been reported to the British Embassy, including cases involving minors.
\n\nThe majority of cases that have been reported took place in tourist resorts in the Red Sea region, often committed by someone the victim had already met, including hotel workers and excursion staff. There have also been reports of hotel staff discouraging incidents being reported to local police.
\n\nFemale travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in taxis.
\n\nTake extra precautions:
\n\ndo not leave children unaccompanied
\ndo not allow hotel staff to enter your room when you are alone – try to ensure a friend or relative is present
\navoid travelling in a taxi alone – if this is not possible, apply extra security by sharing the details of your driver, trip and live location with a friend
\nuse reputable providers for any services and excursions, and carry out research beforehand
\navoid sharing personal contact or social media details
\nPickpocketing is rare in Egypt. Take the same precautions as you would in the UK.
\n\nIt might be helpful to make photocopies of your passport, visa and flight ticket to keep separately from originals when travelling. If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the police immediately and get a police report. You will need a police report to get visa stamps transferred to your replacement passport.
\n\nBe cautious in tourist areas, where scammers and touts sometimes target foreign nationals.
\n\nEgypt is predominantly an Islamic country. Take care to respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Seek to avoid offence, especially during Ramadan or when you visit religious areas.
\n\nIt is illegal to encourage people to convert to Christianity or any other religion.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country and you should check this before you travel. During this time, it is culturally insensitive to eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours. It is advisable not to play loud music, dance or swear in public.
\n\nGet more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\ncheck opening hours of shops and restaurants
\nbe aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate non-fasting guests, for example with screens
\nfollow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
\nbe aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
\nbe patient and show tolerance
\nPolice check ID regularly and will ask to see your passport. They may detain you if you cannot show your ID and your visa (or a digital/paper copy).
\n\nDress modestly, especially in rural areas, mosques and souqs (markets).
\n\nCouples showing physical affection in public is frowned upon. Holding hands is generally fine. Behaviour accepted in tourist resort areas may not be accepted elsewhere.
\n\nDrinking alcohol anywhere other than licensed restaurants, bars, or private homes or certain tourist resorts is illegal and can lead to arrest.
\n\nPossession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence and can, even for small amounts, lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty. People who get a life sentence on drugs charges normally spend the rest of their lives in prison with no chance of parole or a pardon.
\n\nKhat is illegal in Egypt.
\n\nYou must get a permit to enter Egypt with professional photography or film equipment. This includes photography umbrellas, artificial outdoor lighting gear and any equipment that occupies or blocks public roads.
\n\nIt is illegal to take or share photos that could be considered damaging to the country’s image.
\n\nMinistry of Tourism regulations on photography say that you must get an Egyptian citizen’s written permission before you take their photo. Taking pictures of children is prohibited. Do not photograph officials without their consent.
\n\nIt is illegal to take photos of, or near, military property. This includes the Suez Canal.
\n\nIf you are in any doubt, get permission before taking photos. There are sensitivities about taking photographs of:
\n\nIt is illegal to use radio-controlled helicopters or drones to take photos near sensitive sites.
\n\nDo not import, use or produce drones in Egypt unless the Egyptian Ministry of Defence gives you permission beforehand. Anyone who uses or imports drones without permission could get a prison sentence of up to 7 years or a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 Egyptian pounds.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity is not explicitly criminalised in Egypt. However, the Egyptian authorities have prosecuted LGBT+ people under ‘debauchery’ laws, including people flying rainbow flags at public events.
\n\nThere is little public acceptance of same-sex relationships in Egypt. Same-sex couples showing affection in public are likely to receive negative attention.
\n\nBe cautious about sharing content or having discussions of a sexual nature on social media, especially about sexual acts that are considered illegal. Some travellers have been arrested and imprisoned for this.
\n\nYou may be denied entry if your gender expression or physical appearance does not match the sex marker in your passport or your passport photograph.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nEgyptian family law is very different from UK law, particularly around child custody. See International parental child abduction for information and how to get assistance.
\n\nMake sure your travel insurance, or the tour or dive company, will cover the costs for any air or sea rescue, which can cost more than 4,000 US dollars per hour. The Egyptian authorities will only start rescue operations when they are guaranteed payment. Book excursions for activities at your resort or through approved agents or tour operators.
\n\nSee Foreign travel insurance for more information.
\n\nSpeak to your tour company before booking a hot air balloon flight. Some UK tour operators have stopped selling balloon flights because they have not been able to verify safety standards.
\n\nThere have been recent incidents involving British nationals on diving boats/tours in the Red Sea. Some of these have included fatalities. Safety standards of Red Sea resort diving operators and boats vary considerably. Some operators may not provide adequate safety and insurance standards.
\n\nThe Marine Accident Investigation Branch (an independent investigative unit within the Department for Transport) published guidance about liveaboard vessels on their website in February 2025. They recommend that prospective customers book liveaboard dive holidays only through reputable vendors who can provide assurance about the safety standards applicable to the dive boat. On arrival on board, customers should request that the crew provide a thorough safety briefing before departure.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nShark attacks are rare, but there have been attacks on tourists in the Red Sea region. Monitor any updates from local authorities or your tour operator.
\n\nSee watersports safety advice from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA).
\n\nThere have been several serious quad bike accidents involving British nationals in resort areas. Take the same precautions as you would in the UK. Safety standards vary considerably. Always wear a crash helmet.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Egypt, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou’ll need to have both the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nYou can drive in Egypt using your UK licence and an IDP for up to 6 months. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for an Egyptian driving licence.
\n\nDrivers and front seat passengers must wear seatbelts.
\n\nDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence in Egypt. If you are caught, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.
\n\nYou may not be allowed to import a vehicle into Egypt. If you want to bring in a vehicle temporarily, you must get a ‘carnet de passage’ from the Automobile Association.
\n\nAccidents are common because of variable road conditions, dangerous driving and poor traffic law enforcement. Do not drive outside main cities and resorts at night. Make sure you have appropriate insurance.
\n\nIf you’re travelling off road, use a qualified guide and get a permit from the Ministry of Interior.
\n\nSerious bus crashes in recent years have caused many deaths, including tourists.
\n\nThere have also been fatal train collisions and derailments.
\n\nOvercrowding and poor safety standards have caused accidents on Red Sea ferries and Nile cruises.
\n\n","customs_snippets":["on arrival in Egypt – approved airports have kiosks before you reach the immigration counters where you can buy a physical visa for 30 US dollars (cash only).","If you plan to cross the border from Israel into Egypt at Taba, we recommend you bring at least 170 US dollars (cash) per person, with some extra US dollars in cash to cover any further expenses.","Please note that ATMs at the Taba Border Crossing are unreliable and frequently run out of cash.","Travellers should obtain US dollars before travelling or in Eilat before arriving at the Crossing as all payments are required in cash.","Travellers should obtain USD in cash before travelling given payments are often required in cash.","You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.","Contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK for more information about customs rules.","You can bring up to 5,000 Egyptian pounds into or out of Egypt.","You must declare foreign currency worth more than 10,000 US dollars on arrival – there is no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring.","You should declare high value electronic devices and recording equipment when you arrive.","Take care to respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.","Drinking alcohol anywhere other than licensed restaurants, bars, or private homes or certain tourist resorts is illegal and can lead to arrest."]}