Whilst the thought of moving to a lifestyle of all-inclusive living in Egypt will no doubt fill you with excitement and anticipation, don’t get caught out by the practical logistics of moving from the UK to Egypt.
Below, we cover a few key points to be aware of in order to facilitate a smooth and stress-free relocation.
*Please note, the information provided here is intended, but not guaranteed, to be correct and up-to-date, and is not presented as a source of legal advice. If you are unsure of requirements, please contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK.
1. Visas
To live in Egypt, you will require a residency visa, which is usually applied for after obtaining a tourist visa. A tourist visa can be applied for either online, in person at the Egyptian Consulate located in London, which takes approximately 2 working days, or by post, which takes around 5 working days to process.
When applying, a UK Residence Permit valid for at least 6 months from the date of issuing the visa, must be presented. To apply online, visit the Egypt e-Visa Portal.
Residency permits must then be applied for in Cairo. Once obtained, your visa will be renewable and valid for up to 5 years. After 10 years of continuous residence in Egypt, you will be entitled to apply for citizenship.
Find up-to-date information from the Egyptian Consulate by clicking here.
2. Healthcare
Just like in the UK, there are both private and public health services in Egypt, with private hospitals generally providing a higher level of medical care. Consistently accessing private healthcare can become costly however, and it is therefore advisable to invest in private health insurance, where you will find a range of plans to suit your needs.
Emergency attendance at a government hospital will usually be free of charge, though follow-up care may come with a cost. If you do have treatment at a public hospital, try to find one that is attached to a university department, as the facilities here are usually of a higher standard.
If you take prescription medication, consult your GP before moving to Egypt, as some medicines that are readily available in the UK may not be permitted in Egypt, or may be viewed as a controlled drug. A list of controlled drugs can be found at the Egyptian Drug Authority. It is advisable to take a doctor’s note with you.
3. Weather
Of course, one of the major advantages of moving to Egypt is the improvement in weather! With little to no rain, Egypt enjoys hot, dry summers with highs of 34°C and mild winters with lows of 18°C. Whilst you may be looking forward to ditching the big woolly coats required in the UK, don’t forget that Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so dressing modestly is recommended. For up-to-date weather forecasts, visit the Met Office here.
4. Driving
If you plan to drive in Egypt, you can do so using your UK driver’s license as well as an International Driving License.
However, for stays in Egypt that last longer than 6 months, an Egyptian driving license is required. To obtain this, you will need to pass a driving test, a written test, and also provide a medical certificate which says you are fit to drive. For all things related to driving in Egypt, click here.
5. Money and banking
Finally, there are a large number of local Egyptian and international banks which operate throughout the country, though it is usually a prerequisite that you have a residence permit that is valid for at least 6 months before you can open an account. There may also be a minimum deposit required.
Ready to Make the Move?
Relocating from the UK to Egypt is an exciting adventure, offering sun-soaked shores, a rich cultural heritage, and an affordable cost of living. Whether you’re seeking a new lifestyle by the Red Sea, investment opportunities, or a fresh start in a vibrant community, Egypt has something for everyone.
At Red Sea Resorts, we’re here to help make your transition smooth and stress-free. From property guidance and visa advice to settling into your new home, our team is dedicated to ensuring your move is as seamless as possible.
✨ Thinking about making the leap? Get in touch with us today and start your journey to a new life in Egypt! 🌍🏡
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