Immigration To Egypt
Egypt is a historically and culturally rich nation that attracts expatriates for tourism, work, study, and long-term residency. More and more people from other countries are buying property and settling in Egypt long term taking advantage of the cost effective lifestyle and warm weather. Immigration to Egypt has several potential routes. We are able to help you navigate this process seamlessly. Egypt is keenly encouraging foreign nationals to make Egypt their home.
1. Tourist Visas
For those planning a short-term stay in Egypt, tourist visas are the most accessible option:
- Visa on Arrival: Available to British citizens at Egyptian airports, granting a 30-day stay.
- e-Visa: Can be applied for online before arrival, valid for 90 days from issue but allowing a single 30-day stay. The official Government Website is HERE.
- Sinai Resort Permission Stamp: Grants a free 15-day stay for visitors arriving in Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba, restricted to these areas.
Tourist visas can sometimes be extended for an additional period, but repeated extensions are not a long-term solution for residency. Our fee to process your extension is $25 USD + Government Fees or Egyptian Pound Equivalent.
2. Temporary Residency
Individuals planning to stay in Egypt for more than a tourist visa allows must apply for temporary residency. Common reasons include employment, study, or family reunification.
Work Permits & Residency
- Foreign nationals need a valid job offer from an Egyptian employer to apply.
- Employers must prove that no Egyptian candidate is available for the job.
- The work permit serves as a basis for obtaining a residency permit, which must be renewed annually.
Student Residency
- Students enrolled in accredited Egyptian institutions can obtain a student visa.
- Proof of enrolment and financial support is required.
- Residency is typically issued for the duration of the academic programme and must be renewed annually.
Residency by Marriage to an Egyptian Citizen
- Foreign nationals married to an Egyptian citizen can apply for a residence permit.
- The marriage must be legally recognised and registered with the Egyptian authorities.
- The initial residency permit is typically granted for one year and is renewable.
- After continuous residency in Egypt for five years, a foreign spouse may apply for permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship (women can apply after two years; men must meet additional criteria).
- Additional documents, such as a valid marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation, and a clean criminal record, may be required.
Our fee to process your Residency starts at $250 USD + Government Fees or Egyptian Pound Equivalent.
3. Permanent Residency
Foreigners who have maintained legal residency for an extended period may apply for permanent residency. While there is no formal pathway, eligibility often depends on the following factors:
- Having lived in Egypt for at least five years on a renewable residency permit.
- Employment history and financial stability.
- Contributions to Egyptian society, such as business ownership or investments.
- Family connections to Egyptian citizens.
Permanent residency provides more stability but does not grant the same rights as citizenship, such as voting rights.
Our fee to process your Residency starts at $250 USD + Government Fees or Egyptian Pound Equivalent.
4. Citizenship
Becoming an Egyptian citizen is a complex process with strict requirements. The main routes include:
Naturalisation
- Requires at least ten years of continuous legal residence in Egypt.
- Applicants must demonstrate good character, financial independence, and proficiency in Arabic.
- Approval is at the discretion of the government.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign women married to Egyptian men may apply for citizenship after two years of marriage and residency in Egypt.
- Foreign men married to Egyptian women do not automatically qualify for citizenship but may apply after meeting long-term residency criteria.
Citizenship by Investment
- Recent legislation allows foreigners to apply for citizenship through significant financial investments in Egypt.
- Investment options include contributions to the national economy or purchasing high-value real estate.
Our fee to process your Residency starts at $250 USD + Government Fees or Egyptian Pound Equivalent.
Important Considerations
- Legal Compliance: It is essential to adhere to visa regulations to avoid fines or deportation.
- Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are valid, translated, and authenticated where required.
- Consultation: Immigration laws may change; professional legal advice is recommended for complex cases.
Fees can vary depending on the case and circumstances. We suggest a free consultation, which can be done online, to guide you as to fees and costs in your individual case. Transparency is sought from the very first meeting. You can contact us by the form below, by phone or Whatsapp.