How to Acquire a Work Permit in Egypt

Foreign nationals who wish to work legally in Egypt must obtain a work permit. This process involves several legal steps, including approvals from various government departments, submission of required documents, and payment of fees. Below is how to secure a work permit in Egypt.

1. Overview of Work Permits in Egypt

work permit in Egypt, how to get a work permit in Egypt

Foreigners are not allowed to work in Egypt without a valid work permit. The Egyptian government regulates foreign employment to prioritise job opportunities for Egyptian citizens. Therefore, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and provide extensive documentation.

Work permits are generally issued for a period of one year and can be renewed annually. In most cases, a local employer must sponsor the applicant and initiate the permit process. Individuals cannot apply for a work permit independently; the application must be submitted by the employer on behalf of the foreign worker.

2. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a work permit in Egypt, an applicant must:

  • Have a valid job offer from an Egyptian company or international organisation operating in Egypt.
  • Possess professional skills or expertise that are not readily available in the local workforce.
  • Obtain security clearance from the Egyptian authorities.
  • Undergo a medical examination.

Certain professions, such as legal practice and tourism-related roles, may have additional restrictions.

3. Legal Process for Obtaining a Work Permit

The process of obtaining a work permit in Egypt involves multiple steps and interactions with various government offices.

Step 1: Employer Sponsorship & Initial Approval

  • The employer must apply on behalf of the foreign national at the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration in Egypt.
  • The employer must provide a justification for hiring a foreigner instead of an Egyptian national.
  • The company must show that it complies with the legal quota, which limits foreign workers to 10% of the total workforce in certain industries.

Step 2: Submission of Required Documents

The following documents must be submitted to the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration:

  1. Employment Contract – A formal agreement between the employer and the foreign employee.
  2. Passport Copy – A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
  3. Academic & Professional Certificates – Translated into Arabic and authenticated.
  4. Medical Certificate – Proof of good health from a recognised medical institution.
  5. Security Clearance – Issued by the Egyptian authorities after a background check.
  6. Employer’s Company Documents – Including tax and commercial registration documents.
  7. Three Passport-Sized Photos – Recent photographs of the applicant.
  8. Proof of Experience – Documents proving the applicant’s professional background.
  9. A valid Tourist Visa – The applicant can not be in Egypt with an expired visa

Step 3: Payment of Fees

Applicants must pay the required government fees for processing the work permit. The fee varies depending on the applicant’s nationality and job sector, but typically ranges between 1,000 EGP to 5,000 EGP per year.

Step 4: Security Clearance & Background Check

  • The applicant must undergo a security clearance process.
  • The Ministry of Interior will conduct a background check to ensure the applicant has no legal issues.
  • The approval process can take several weeks to months depending on the case.

Step 5: Work Permit Issuance

Once the security clearance is approved:

4. Work Permit Renewal Process

A work permit in Egypt is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The renewal process requires the following:

  • A letter from the employer confirming continued employment.
  • Updated security clearance from the Ministry of Interior.
  • A new medical examination.
  • Payment of renewal fees.

Renewals should be submitted at least three months before the current permit expires to avoid penalties or disruptions in employment.

5. Work Permit Exemptions

Certain foreign nationals may be exempt from work permits under specific conditions, including:

  • Diplomats and employees of international organisations.
  • Journalists accredited by the Egyptian government.
  • Employees of companies operating in free zones under specific agreements.

6. Penalties for Working Without a Permit

Working without a valid work permit in Egypt can lead to severe penalties, including:

  • Fines: Employers and employees may be fined heavily for non-compliance.
  • Deportation: The foreign national may be deported and banned from re-entering Egypt.
  • Legal Action: Employers may face legal consequences, including restrictions on hiring foreign workers in the future.

To avoid these penalties, all foreign workers must ensure they have a legally approved work permit before starting employment in Egypt.

7. Where to Apply

Foreign nationals can apply for a work permit at the following locations:

  • Ministry of Manpower and Immigration – Cairo Office, 3 Youssef Abbas Street, Nasr City, Cairo.
  • General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) – 3 Salah Salem Road, Nasr City, Cairo.
  • Local Immigration Offices – In major governorates such as Hurghada, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan.

For additional assistance, applicants may consult an immigration lawyer or contact their home country’s embassy in Cairo for guidance.

By following these legal steps, foreign nationals can secure a work permit in Egypt and work legally within the country. Ensuring compliance with Egyptian labour laws is crucial for a smooth and uninterrupted employment experience.

This process can be overwhelming for companies. Our fees to facilitate the process start at $75 US Dollars (or EGP Equivalent) and can be higher for more complicated cases. We will discuss all fees during our Free Consultation.

You can contact us by phone, Whatapp or the form below.

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