Do you intend to change the British drizzle to golden sands of Red Sea or the antiquity of Luxor? To the United Kingdom citizens, the possibility of visiting the land of the pharaohs has become very easy. The Egypt E-Visa system has changed the way of travelling in the sense that no longer do you need to visit the embassy, or send your passport via mail. Such online transformation also makes sure that British tourists can obtain their entry permits in the comfort of their living rooms.

To make sure that your holiday begins without any issues, we will take you through the necessary steps of the Egypt E-Visa Application Process for United Kingdom Citizens.
Do UK passport holders need a visa to Egypt?
Yes. Every British nation needs a visa in order to enter Egypt. Although technically a Visa on Arrival can be issued at such large airports as Cairo or Hurghada, it is strongly advised to have an E-Visa arranged beforehand. It spares you the inconvenience of having to go to separate bank lines to purchase a visa stamp (which has to be money in USD, Eur or GBP) and it also makes sure that your travel paperwork has been already vetted by the Egyptian Ministry of Interior before you even get out of the UK.
Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry: Which E-Visa is Right for Your Trip?
In the applications of an Egypt visa, there is a decision to choose between two visa types. Knowledge of the distinction is important to your travel budget and itinerary:
- Single-Entry E- Visa: It is the normal option when an individual is going on a one-time vacation. It enables you to spend up to 30 days and has a 90 days validity period of the date of issue. Upon departure out of Egypt, the visa is no longer valid.
- Multiple-Entry E-Visa: In case you are going to Egypt but want to have a side trip to Jordan or Israel, then this is the most suitable one. It is valid for 180 days and is applicable in coming and going with a limit of 30 days per visit.
What are the Rules for Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders?

In case you possess a British Diplomatic or an Official Passport, then the E-visa system will not apply to you as a rule.
- Official Business: Customers of official government business have to request a traditional visa at the Egyptian Consulate in London. This normally takes a Note Verbale of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
- Personal Travel: When you travel with a personal holiday regardless of the diplomatic passport, it is advisable to use your normal civilian (blue) passport and E- Visa to make the process of getting into the country smoother and faster.
Can I Convert My E-Visa to a Different Type Upon Arrival?
A common question is: Can I change my tourist visa to a work visa at the airport? * No Conversion at Entry: You cannot "convert" an E-Visa or a Visa on Arrival into a residency or work permit at the immigration desk.
- The Correct Path: You must enter on the visa that matches your primary intent. If you wish to extend a tourist stay, you must visit the Immigration Office (Mogamma) in Cairo. However, converting to a "Work Visa" requires an application processed by a local employer before you arrive or through a lengthy legal process in-country.
What are the Egypt E-Visa Rules for Children and Minors?
Traveling to Egypt with the family? Every single traveler, including infants and children, must have their own individual E-Visa.
- Individual Requirements: The visa is tied strictly to each individual passport number.
- Parental Applications: Parents or guardians can easily apply for their children. Using a professional platform like egypt-eta.com, you can submit "Group Applications" so that the whole family’s documentation is managed under one umbrella.
- Accuracy: Ensure the child’s name and date of birth match their passport exactly to avoid delays.
Where Can I Buy a SIM Card to Stay Connected?
Staying connected in Egypt is affordable and highly recommended for navigating and using ride-share apps.
- Airport Kiosks: Upon landing at Cairo, Hurghada, or Sharm El Sheikh, you will find kiosks for major providers like Vodafone, Orange, and WE in the arrivals hall (often near the luggage belts).
- Requirements: You must present your original British passport to register a local SIM card.
- Pricing: Tourist SIM packages are specifically designed for 30-day stays and usually cost between £10 and £20 for generous data allowances.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit in Egypt?

A typical UK photocard license is insufficient in case you intend to rent a car to drive between Hurghada and Luxor, or to visit the Sinai.
- IDP Requirement: You need an International Driving Permit (1968 issue) to drive legally in Egypt.
- Getting one: these are no longer available in the Post Office in the UK. You need to go to a PayPoint and present your license and passport photo.
- Car Rentals: The rest of the decent car hire companies will not give you the keys without your UK license and your IDP.
What documents are required for an Egypt eVisa?
In order to be approved, one must note the so-called Six-Month Rule:
- Validity: Your P.U.K. Passport should also possess a minimum of 6 months of validity on the day that you arrive.
- The Digital Scan: Add a clear and high-resolution photo of the biographical page of your passport.
- Eliminate Glare: The lights should not be shining on the hologram areas and the MRZ code (two lines of letters/numbers at the bottom) should not be cut off.
How Long Does Processing Take for UK Citizens?
Egypt Visa offers three speeds to suit your travel timeline:
- Normal Processing: 5 - 7 Working Days (Standard).
- Rush Processing: 3 - 5 Working Days (For trips planned next week).
- Super Rush Processing: 2 - 3 Working Days (The emergency option).
Why Choose an Agent with 24/7 Support Like egypt-eta.com?
The Egypt Visa can be technically difficult and lacks a help desk. Choosing egypt-eta.com provides:
- Expert Review: Specialists check your scan and data to catch errors before the government sees them.
- 24/7 Dedicated Support: Real-time help via chat or email, which is crucial if you are applying from a different time zone or have a last-minute emergency.
- Security: Your passport data is protected by the latest industry-standard encryption.