How to Acquire Residency in Egypt

Egypt offers several residency options for foreigners looking to live in the country for extended periods. Whether you plan to reside in Egypt for work, marriage, retirement, or investment, understanding the legal process and requirements is essential. There are different avenues for obtaining Egyptian residency, the necessary documents, legal procedures, fees, and processing times.

1. Types of Residency in Egypt

Tourist Visa Extensions

How to get residency in Egypt, process for residency in Egypt
  • Many foreigners start with a tourist visa, which is initially valid for 30 to 90 days.
  • Extensions are available at the Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration in Hurghada, Luxor, Alexandria, Aswan and Abbasiya, Cairo.
  • Applicants must submit a completed extension form, passport copies, and a fee of approximately 1,500 EGP.
  • The extension process typically takes one to two weeks.

Residency by Marriage

  • Foreigners married to Egyptian citizens can apply for temporary residency, which is renewable annually.
  • After five consecutive years of residency, applicants may apply for permanent residency.
  • Required documents include:
    • An official Egyptian marriage certificate
    • Passport with at least six months validity
    • Egyptian spouse’s national ID
    • Proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill)
  • The application must be submitted at the Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration.
  • Fees range from 1,500 to 3,000 EGP, and processing takes four to six weeks.

Residency by Investment

  • Foreigners who invest in Egypt can apply for residency based on economic contribution.
  • Investment options include:
    • Purchasing property valued at $100,000 or more, which grants a one-year renewable residency.
    • Investing at least $400,000 in an Egyptian business, which can lead to permanent residency.
  • Applications must be submitted to the General Authority for Investment (GAFI).
  • Processing typically takes one to three months.

Residency by Work Permit

  • Employers must sponsor foreign employees to obtain a work permit, which grants renewable one-year residency.
  • The process involves:
    • Securing a job offer from an Egyptian company
    • Obtaining approval from the Ministry of Manpower
    • Medical examination at a designated health centre
    • Background checks and security clearance
  • Work permit fees vary but usually range from 3,000 to 5,000 EGP.
  • Processing takes four to eight weeks.

Residency by Retirement

  • Foreign retirees aged 55 and above can apply for renewable five-year residency.
  • They must provide proof of sufficient income (pension statements or bank statements showing at least $2,000 monthly income).
  • The application is processed through the Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration.
  • Fees range from 1,500 to 5,000 EGP, with processing times of six to eight weeks.

2. Legal Process for Residency Application

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Each type of residency requires specific documents, but generally, applicants must provide:

  • A valid passport
  • Recent passport-sized photos
  • Proof of residency (rental contract, utility bill, or property ownership)
  • Medical examination reports (for work permits and permanent residency)
  • Security clearance (for investment and work permits)

Step 2: Submit the Application

  • Applications must be submitted at the Passports, Immigration, and Nationality Administration in Hurghada, Aswan, Alexandria or Abbasiya, Cairo.
  • Investment residency applications go through GAFI.
  • Work permits require processing through the Ministry of Manpower.

Step 3: Pay Fees

  • Fees vary depending on the type of residency but generally range from 1,500 to 5,000 EGP.
  • Payments are made at the respective government office handling the residency request.

Step 4: Processing and Approval

  • Temporary residency permits are usually issued within four to eight weeks.
  • Investment residency may take one to three months.
  • Work permits require six to eight weeks for processing.
  • Residency by marriage can take four to six weeks, while permanent residency takes at least five years of continuous legal residence.

3. Additional Considerations

Residency Renewals

  • Most residency permits require annual renewal.
  • Renewals must be processed before the permit’s expiry to avoid penalties.
  • Late renewals may result in fines or deportation.

Residency and Citizenship

  • Permanent residency holders can apply for Egyptian citizenship after 10 years.
  • Citizenship by investment is available for a $500,000 government deposit or a $400,000 real estate investment.

By following these legal steps and submitting the correct documentation, foreigners can secure residency in Egypt through various avenues. Whilst the process may seem overwhelming, and there may be several possible avenues it can be straight forward when done by a professional. Our fee for this process starts at $150 US Dollars (or EGP equivalent) and we will discuss all fees upfront at our free consultation.

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