UK work visa from Egypt: requirements, cost and how to apply

Do you need a TB test?

Not because you live in Egypt. Egypt is not on the GOV.UK list of countries where you need a TB test.

You still need a test if you’ve lived in a listed country (for example India, Pakistan or Nigeria) for 6 months or more and were living there within the last 6 months. Check the full list.

If you do need one, there are approved clinics in Egypt. Find a TB clinic in Egypt on GOV.UK.

Do you need to prove your English?

Yes. You need English at level B2 (upper intermediate). Egypt is not on the list of countries whose citizens are exempt. You can usually prove it with:

• an approved English test (a Secure English Language Test, or SELT)
• a degree taught in English (if it’s not from a UK institution, Ecctis must confirm it)
• a UK school qualification, such as a GCSE or A level, that you started before you turned 18

All the ways to prove your English.

Do you need a police certificate?

Only for some jobs. You need a criminal record certificate if you’re applying from outside the UK for one of 69 jobs in health, education or social care. You need one from each country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years, since you turned 18.

GOV.UK’s guide to overseas police checks has no section for Egypt. Read the general guidance.

Where do you prove your identity?

After you apply online, you prove your identity. Depending on your passport, you either scan it with the UK Immigration: ID Check app or give your fingerprints and photo at a visa application centre. Egypt has UK visa application centres. Book or find a centre in Egypt.

How much does it cost?

The fees are the same wherever you apply from, and they are set in pounds.

For example, a 3-year visa costs £819 plus £3,105 for the healthcare surcharge: £3,924. Your partner and children pay too if they come with you. The fee is lower (£628) if your job is on the Immigration Salary List. All the fees.

How long does it take?

You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks after you’ve applied online and proved your identity. Your visa can last up to 5 years, and you can extend it.

How to apply from Egypt

1. Find a job with a UK employer on the licensed sponsor list. Check the job’s SOC code is eligible.
2. Get your certificate of sponsorship reference number from your employer.
3. Prove your English at level B2.
4. If your job needs one, get a police certificate from each country you’ve lived in.
5. Apply online on GOV.UK: apply from outside the UK. Pay the fee and the healthcare surcharge.
6. Prove your identity with the ID Check app or at a visa application centre in Egypt.

Not sure the Skilled Worker visa is right for you? Compare all UK work visas.