Do you need travel insurance for Egypt?

No, travel insurance isn't compulsory to enter Egypt. It is still strongly recommended: the NHS won't cover you there, treatment mostly takes place in private clinics and a medical repatriation can cost tens of thousands of euros.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Egypt?

No Egyptian law requires British travellers to have travel insurance.

• At the border: you won't be asked for proof of insurance.
• For your visa: the tourist e-visa is issued without proof of insurance.
• Official advice: the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises taking out travel insurance covering medical treatment and repatriation before you travel.

Filovent's advisers check the travel formalities with you before departure.

Why take out travel insurance for Egypt?

• No reciprocal healthcare agreement: the UK has no healthcare agreement with Egypt, so medical costs are down to you.
• Private clinics: public healthcare is patchy, especially outside Cairo. Foreign visitors use private clinics, which are more expensive.
• Upfront payment: private hospitals often ask for a payment guarantee on admission.
• Costly repatriation: an air ambulance back to the UK starts at around €20,000 and can be far higher depending on the patient's condition and where you're evacuated from (2026 estimate).
• The most common issues: stomach upsets, dehydration, heatstroke or an accident during water sports.

NHS, GHIC or bank card: are they enough?

If you're relying on a bank card or packaged account, check three things: the medical expenses limit, the excess and whether the trip must be paid for with that card. A dedicated travel insurance policy gives fuller cover.

What cover and limits do you need for Egypt?

Are water sports and excursions covered?

Not always. Some activities are excluded from standard policies or offered as an add-on. Check the policy wording before you travel.

Nile cruise

A Nile cruise, on a motor cruise boat or a dahabiya (traditional Egyptian sailing boat), is covered by standard travel insurance. Make sure your policy covers every stage of the itinerary, including excursions between Luxor and Aswan.

Scuba diving and snorkelling in the Red Sea

• Check that scuba diving is included, or add water sports cover.
• Check the maximum depth covered.
• Make sure recompression chamber treatment is covered.

Desert and land excursions

Quad biking, camel rides or a night in the desert: these activities are sometimes excluded. Ask your insurer for written confirmation.

Areas the FCDO advises against

Some policies don't cover travel to areas where the FCDO advises against all travel. Check that your policy covers every area on your itinerary. For the latest situation, see our FAQ on safety in Egypt.

Other frequently asked questions

Do you need cancellation cover for a holiday in Egypt?

It's separate from medical cover and often sold as an add-on. It reimburses your costs if you have to cancel or cut short your trip:

• flights;
• cruise or accommodation;
• excursions booked in advance.

It's particularly useful if you book several months ahead. For cover linked to your booking, see our FAQ on insurance and security deposits.

How much does travel insurance for Egypt cost and when should you buy it?

Allow €50 to €150 for a one- to two-week trip, depending on the cover and the travellers' ages (2026 estimate). Buy it before you travel, and as soon as you book if you add cancellation cover.

What can the embassy do if something goes wrong?

The British Embassy can contact your family and give you a list of local doctors. It won't pay for treatment, evacuation or repatriation: these costs are down to you or your insurer.