About the Egypt visa

General guidance for international travellers. Requirements vary by nationality — confirm with the official visa authority for your passport.

Short answer: A Egypt visa is official permission to enter for a stated purpose. Whether you need one depends on your passport nationality, trip length, and travel purpose — always confirm with the official authority.

This guide explains how Egypt visa categories work for travellers. It is informational: consular officers make final decisions.

Egypt's pharaonic heritage draws millions to the Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor, and Nile journeys to Aswan and Abu Simbel. Cairo blends Islamic architecture with modern museums, while Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh offer Red Sea diving. Most UK travellers apply for a tourist e-visa before flying, ensuring passport validity of at least six months and accommodation details that match immigration questions.

The Egyptian pound (EGP) is used daily; carry cash for baksheesh, taxis, and smaller shops. Arabic is the official language; English appears at major tourist sites. Dress modestly at mosques and rural villages. Summer heat at open-air temples can be extreme—schedule Karnak and Valley of the Kings early morning.

October to April is the classic sightseeing season. Nile cruises require passport copies at booking. Domestic flights beat long road transfers between Cairo and Upper Egypt. Registered guides at Giza reduce hassle from unofficial touts.

Business and work visas need sponsor letters distinct from tourism. Keep printed e-visa approval and hotel confirmations for airport immigration. This guide is informational; Egyptian authorities decide entry. Prince Visa can help verify visa type and supporting papers before you travel.

Who typically needs a visa

Requirements depend on nationality, length of stay, and purpose. Holders of your passport nationality should check the latest bilateral rules and any e-visa or visa-on-arrival options before booking non-refundable travel.

Main categories

  • Tourist visa — A tourist visa for Egypt is intended for leisure travel, sightseeing, and short cultural visits without employment. Most applicants explain …
  • Business visa — Business visas cover meetings, trade fairs, contract negotiations, and supervised commercial activity in Egypt. You typically need an invita…

Useful country facts

  • Many visitors obtain a tourist e-visa online before arrival at Cairo International Airport.
  • Single-entry tourist visas must match your stated itinerary and length of stay.
  • The Egyptian pound (EGP) is the local currency; cards are accepted at major hotels.
  • Photography restrictions apply at military sites and some museums.
  • Travel near border zones and North Sinai is subject to strict FCDO warnings.
  • Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking; use sealed bottles.

At a glance

ISO
EG
Capital
Cairo
Currency
Egyptian pound (EGP)
Language
Arabic
Time zone
Africa/Cairo

Need help applying for your Egypt visa?

Prince Visa can help you prepare forms and supporting documents for your application.

Start application

Official sources

This site is informational and is not a government website. Final decisions rest with consular officers.

Start application