Egypt Travel Guide for UK BRP Holders

E-visa system and transit opportunities for UK residents

E-Visa Available

Key Information

E-Visa System
Available
Max Duration
30 days
Cairo Hub
Transit Gateway
Processing
7 days

Egypt for UK BRP Holders

E-visa system and strategic transit location

Egypt offers an efficient e-visa system that's available to most nationalities, including UK residents. While your UK BRP doesn't provide specific visa exemptions for Egypt, UK residence can strengthen your application and demonstrates ties that support your intention to return.

Cairo International Airport serves as a strategic hub connecting Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, making Egypt an excellent transit point for broader regional travel. The country combines ancient wonders with modern amenities, offering incredible historical experiences.

UK BRP Benefits

While not providing visa exemptions, UK residence strengthens e-visa applications and demonstrates stability. UK bank statements and residence history are viewed favorably by Egyptian authorities.

Egypt E-Visa System

Online visa application for tourists

E-Visa Eligibility

  • Available to: Most nationalities including UK passport holders
  • Visa types: Single entry (30 days) or multiple entry (90 days)
  • Processing time: 7 working days (expedited options available)
  • Cost: $25 USD for single entry, $60 USD for multiple entry
  • Validity: 90 days from issue date to enter Egypt

Required Documents

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Recent passport-style photograph
  • Hotel booking or accommodation proof
  • Return/onward flight tickets
  • Bank statements (UK bank statements accepted)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
1

Apply Online

Complete the application at visa2egypt.gov.eg with personal details and travel information.

2

Upload Documents

Submit passport scan, photo, and supporting documents through the online portal.

3

Pay Fee

Complete payment online using credit/debit card. UK cards widely accepted.

4

Receive E-Visa

Download approved e-visa and print copies for travel. Present at Egyptian immigration.

UK Resident Advantages

UK bank statements, employment letters, and residence documentation strengthen your e-visa application by demonstrating financial stability and ties to the UK.

Cairo International Airport Transit

Gateway between continents

Transit Facilities

  • Transit Time: Up to 48 hours for most nationalities
  • Transit Hotel: Le Meridien Cairo Airport available
  • Shopping: Duty-free and retail outlets
  • Dining: Restaurants and cafes in transit area
  • Free WiFi: Available throughout the airport

Continental Connections

  • Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, Amsterdam
  • Africa: Johannesburg, Lagos, Khartoum, Addis Ababa
  • Middle East: Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, Kuwait, Beirut
  • Asia: Bangkok, Mumbai, Beijing (via EgyptAir network)

Major Airlines

  • EgyptAir: Extensive Middle East and African network
  • British Airways: Direct UK-Egypt connections
  • Emirates: Dubai hub connections
  • Turkish Airlines: Istanbul connections
  • Lufthansa: German hub connections

Transit Visa Requirements

Some nationalities may require transit visas even for airport connections. Check with your airline and Egyptian authorities based on your passport nationality and routing.

Egypt Travel Information

Essential information for your Egypt visit

Currency & Costs

  • Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
  • Budget meals: EGP 100-200 ($3-6)
  • Mid-range dining: EGP 300-600 ($10-20)
  • Budget accommodation: EGP 500-1500/night ($15-45)
  • Local transport: EGP 20-100 per journey ($1-3)

Top Destinations

  • Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo
  • Luxor: Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, ancient Thebes
  • Aswan: Abu Simbel, Philae Temple, Nile cruises
  • Alexandria: Mediterranean coast, ancient library site
  • Red Sea: Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh diving and beaches

Getting Around

  • Domestic flights: Efficient for long distances (Cairo-Aswan-Luxor)
  • Nile cruises: Popular Luxor-Aswan route
  • Trains: Comfortable sleeper trains available
  • Tour operators: Many options for organized sightseeing
  • Taxis/Uber: Available in major cities

Cultural Considerations

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Friday is the holy day; some attractions may have limited hours
  • Arabic is the official language; English widely spoken in tourist areas
  • Tipping (baksheesh) is customary for services
  • Ramadan may affect opening hours and meal times

Must-See Highlights

The Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Abu Simbel temples, and Cairo's Egyptian Museum contain some of the world's most spectacular ancient treasures. Allow at least a week to see the major sites properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Egypt travel

Standard processing takes 7 working days. Expedited processing is available for additional fees if you need it faster. Apply well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any delays, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Visa on arrival is available for certain nationalities at major airports, but it's subject to long queues and potential complications. The e-visa system is more reliable and allows you to complete the process before travel. UK passport holders should use the e-visa system.

Yes, UK residence documentation strengthens your application by demonstrating financial stability and ties that support your intention to return. UK bank statements, employment letters, and utility bills are all viewed favorably by Egyptian visa processing authorities.

Egypt's main tourist areas (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea resorts) are generally safe with strong tourism police presence. Stick to organized tours for major sights, avoid remote areas, and check current UK Foreign Office travel advice before your trip. Millions of UK tourists visit Egypt safely each year.

Tourist visa extensions are possible but can be complicated and time-consuming. It's better to apply for the appropriate duration initially. Multiple-entry e-visas allow you to leave and re-enter within the 90-day validity period if you need longer total time in the region.

⚠️ Travel Information Disclaimer

Important: This information is for general guidance. E-visa requirements, processing times, and transit rules can change. Always verify current requirements with official Egyptian authorities or the Egyptian embassy before travel. Ensure your documents meet all current requirements.

Last Updated: May 2025