As a UK citizen planning to travel to Egypt, getting a visa should be at the top of your list. An Egypt visa is a legal document that allows you to enter and stay in Egypt for a specific period, depending on the type of visa you applied for. In this article, we will guide you on how to apply for an Egypt visa from the UK, the different types of visas available, the fees, and the requirements.
Types of Egypt Visas for UK Citizens
There are various types of Egypt visas available to UK citizens, depending on the purpose of their visit. The most common types of visas include:
Tourist Visa
This visa is issued to UK citizens visiting Egypt for leisure, sightseeing, and other non-business-related purposes. The visa allows you to stay in Egypt for a maximum of 30 days and is valid for three months from the date of issue.
Business Visa
This visa is issued to UK citizens traveling to Egypt for business-related purposes such as attending meetings, conferences, or conducting business transactions. The visa allows you to stay in Egypt for a maximum of 90 days and is valid for six months from the date of issue.
Work Visa
This visa is issued to UK citizens who have secured employment in Egypt. The visa allows you to stay in Egypt for a maximum of 90 days and is valid for six months from the date of issue.
Student Visa
This visa is issued to UK citizens who intend to study in Egypt. The visa allows you to stay in Egypt for the duration of your studies and is valid for six months from the date of issue.
How to apply for an Egypt Visa from the UK
The easiest way to apply for an Egypt visa from the UK is through the online application process. You need to follow these steps:
Online Application Process
- Visit the Egyptian e-Visa Portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg
- Register an account and provide your personal information
- Fill in the online application form and upload the required documents
- Pay the visa fee using a valid credit/debit card
- Submit your application
Required Documents for Application
The following documents are required for your Egypt visa application:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of arrival in Egypt
- A passport-sized photo
- Proof of travel arrangements, including flight and hotel bookings
- A bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover your stay in Egypt
- A copy of your travel insurance
Processing Time
The processing time for an Egypt visa is typically three to five working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of visa applications received.
Egypt Visa Fees
The fees for Egypt visas vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of your stay in Egypt. The following are the fees for different types of visas:
- Tourist Visa – $25
- Business Visa – $60
- Work Visa – $120
- Student Visa – $25
Payment Method
The visa fee can be paid online using a valid credit/debit card during the online application process. It is important to note that the visa fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa application is approved or not.
Visa Extension and Renewal
If you wish to extend your stay in Egypt beyond the expiry date of your visa, you can apply for a visa extension at the nearest immigration office. The extension process may take up to three weeks, and the visa extension fee is $25.
If you plan to stay in Egypt for an extended period, you can renew your visa before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the visa application process, and the visa renewal fee is the same as the visa application fee.
Egypt Visa Requirements
To apply for an Egypt visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Egypt. It should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Health Requirements
UK citizens traveling to Egypt are not required to have any specific vaccinations. However, it is recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella.
Financial Requirements
You must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Egypt. A bank statement showing a balance of at least $500 is required.
Travel Tips for Egypt Visa Holders
If you are planning to travel to Egypt, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
Pre-departure Tips
- Check the latest travel advice from the UK government
- Ensure you have a valid passport and visa
- Purchase travel insurance
- Make copies of important documents such as your passport and visa
- Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans
Arrival and Stay Tips
- Respect the local customs and traditions
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
- Be cautious of pickpocketing and theft
- Use official taxis or pre-booked transportation
- Drink bottled water and avoid tap water
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining an Egypt visa as a UK citizen is a straightforward process. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can apply for and obtain the appropriate visa for your travel needs. Remember to check the latest travel advice before traveling and respect the local customs and traditions when in Egypt.
The processing time for an Egypt visa is typically three to five working days.
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the nearest immigration office.
The requirements include a valid passport, proof of travel arrangements, bank statement, travel insurance, and visa fee payment.
UK citizens traveling to Egypt are not required to have any specific vaccinations. However, it is recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations.
Yes, you can renew your Egypt visa before it expires.