Antiques (100+ years old, non-ivory) → Egypt

Bringing antiques INTO Egypt is generally permitted, but Egypt's Law 117/1983 makes exporting genuine antiquities a criminal offence.

Details

Travellers importing antiques into Egypt are generally not subject to special restrictions beyond standard customs declaration requirements for high-value goods. However, Egypt's Law No. 117 of 1983 on the Protection of Antiquities (as amended by Law No. 3/2010) makes it a criminal offence to export Egyptian antiquities, defined broadly as artefacts produced in Egypt and older than 100 years, without authorisation from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Travellers who purchase items in Egyptian markets should obtain an official clearance certificate (Shattera) from the Ministry if uncertain of an item's age. Penalties for illegal antiquity export include imprisonment and heavy fines.

Quantity limit

No limit on import; export of genuine antiquities (>100 years old) without a Ministry permit is a criminal offence

Documentation required

• Customs declaration for high-value items on import
• Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities clearance certificate (Shattera) for any purchased item of uncertain age before export

Legal reference

Egyptian Law No. 117/1983 on Protection of Antiquities; Law No. 3/2010 amendment; Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities clearance procedure

Leaving with this item

Egypt prohibits the export of antiquities entirely — private trade and export have been banned since 1983.

Practical advice

If you buy souvenirs that look old or authentic in Egyptian markets, obtain a Shattera from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities before departure. Do not purchase items that sellers claim are genuine ancient artefacts, as these are often illegal and subject to confiscation.

Customs authority

Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA) — part of Egyptian Tax Authority · https://www.customs.gov.eg