Antiquities 🇪🇬 Egypt
Strict export ban on all antiquities
Can I bring Antiquities into Egypt?
Strict export ban on all antiquities
Full details
Egypt has extremely strict laws on the export of antiquities. The Supreme Council of Antiquities prohibits export of any artifact deemed to be of archaeological or historical significance. Penalties include imprisonment of up to 25 years. Even reproductions may be questioned at the border.
Active — Customs actively enforces this rule.
Leaving Egypt with antiquities
Egypt's Law 117/1983 on the Protection of Antiquities prohibits export of any item classified as an antiquity (pre-dating 1882). The Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) maintains a national registry. Unlicensed export carries 5–15 years imprisonment and unlimited fines under Articles 42–44. Temporary export for museum exhibition may be authorised by ministerial decree with a registered guarantee. Egypt is a UNESCO 1970 Convention and UNIDROIT 1995 Convention signatory.
Do not bring or send antiquities to Egypt. Confirm current rules with Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA) — part of Egyptian Tax Authority before travel; enforcement and penalties may change.
Zero — export prohibited
Law No. 117 of 1983 (Antiquities Protection Law)
This page covers destination customs rules in Egypt. Whether you can carry antiquities through security, in carry-on, or in checked baggage depends on airline and screening rules — see air travel rules.
Related rules
Antiquities rules in other countries
Antiquities
🇮🇹 Italy
Export of cultural property strictly controlled
Antiquities
🇨🇳 China
Export of cultural relics strictly controlled
Antiquities
🇯🇵 Japan
Important Cultural Properties restricted
Antiquities
🇺🇸 United States
Antiquities may require documentation or declaration
Antiquities
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Antiquities may require documentation or declaration
Antiquities
🇨🇦 Canada
Antiquities may require documentation or declaration