Egypt Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Who Needs a Work Permit in Egypt

In Egypt, any foreign national intending to work in the country must obtain a work permit. Egyptian labor law prioritizes local employment, enforcing quotas that limit non-Egyptian workers to no more than 10% of a company’s total staff and 20% of the payroll. Employers must ensure they comply with these quotas and secure the necessary work permits before a foreign employee begins working.

Types of Work Visas in Egypt

Egypt provides several work visa types designed for different employment situations. Each type has specific conditions and eligibility requirements.

Work Permit for Foreign Workers

The Work Permit for Foreign Workers in Egypt is required for non-Egyptian nationals who have secured employment with an Egyptian company. This permit is designed for foreign nationals looking to work in Egypt for an extended period. The process for obtaining a work permit typically starts with the employer submitting an application on behalf of the foreign worker to the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower and Immigration (MOMI). The application should include proof of employment, the employee’s qualifications, and any other documentation required by the Ministry.

The Work Permit is generally issued for a period of one year, and the foreign worker is allowed to live and work in Egypt legally for the duration of the permit. It can be renewed annually as long as the employee continues to be employed by the same company and meets the necessary requirements.

💡 Best work permit option if: This permit is ideal for foreign nationals who have secured long-term employment with an Egyptian company and wish to live and work in Egypt for an extended period. It is perfect for employees in industries such as finance, technology, education, and engineering.

Investment Residency Visa (Investor Visa)

The Investment Residency Visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to invest in Egypt’s economy and establish a business. It is designed for individuals who invest significant capital in the country, typically in sectors such as real estate, industry, tourism, or agriculture. To qualify for the Investor Visa, applicants must invest a substantial amount, usually starting from $200,000, in a government-approved project, business, or property in Egypt.

The Investment Residency Visa allows the holder to reside in Egypt for the duration of their investment, which is typically valid for one year but can be renewed. In some cases, investors can apply for a permanent residency visa if they continue their investment activities and contribute significantly to the local economy. The visa also extends to the investor's immediate family members, allowing them to live and work in Egypt.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and business investors who wish to establish or expand their business in Egypt. It is perfect for those looking to make long-term investments and secure residency while contributing to the country’s economic growth.

Employment Visa (Employee Visa)

The Employment Visa (Employee Visa) in Egypt is required for foreign nationals who wish to work for an Egyptian employer in a position that is not covered by a work permit. This visa is typically issued for employees who are hired by Egyptian companies but whose roles are not categorized under the special skilled categories of the Work Permit. Unlike the standard Work Permit, the Employment Visa is based on the employee's contract and the company's specific requirements.

Employers must submit an application to the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower and Immigration, demonstrating that the employee has a valid job offer and that their work does not impact local labor opportunities. This visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed as long as the employee maintains employment with the company and complies with Egyptian labor regulations.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals employed in roles that do not fall under specialized or high-skill categories. It is suitable for foreign workers hired by Egyptian companies in industries such as hospitality, construction, or administrative support.

Freelance/Independent Worker Visa

The Freelance/Independent Worker Visa in Egypt is designed for foreign nationals who are self-employed or wish to engage in freelance work within the country. This visa is ideal for individuals who work independently, such as consultants, artists, writers, or professionals in fields such as IT, design, or media. To apply for this visa, the individual must demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially and provide proof of income or a business plan outlining their freelance activities in Egypt.

The Freelance Visa is generally issued for up to one year, but it can be renewed depending on the individual’s ability to prove ongoing work or contracts in Egypt. It allows the foreign freelancer to live and work in Egypt while offering flexibility in the types of work the individual can take on. The visa holder is also permitted to bring family members under specific conditions.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who work as independent contractors or consultants and need legal permission to work in Egypt. It’s perfect for individuals who prefer flexibility in their work schedule and want to live and work independently in Egypt.

Short-Term Work Visa

The Short-Term Work Visa is issued to foreign nationals who are coming to Egypt for temporary work assignments or short-term projects. This visa is commonly used by employees who are involved in specific projects, training programs, or business trips that last for a limited time, generally up to 90 days.

The application for this visa typically requires the foreign worker to submit a detailed description of the job or project, including the expected duration of stay and the work they will be doing. The Short-Term Work Visa is ideal for consultants, trainers, or contractors who need to stay in Egypt for a short period to complete a specific task.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for individuals who are coming to Egypt for short-term assignments, such as consultants or specialists involved in projects that require their expertise. It is perfect for temporary workers or foreign nationals visiting Egypt for a few months to provide specialized knowledge or services.

Student Visa with Work Permit

The Student Visa with Work Permit in Egypt is designed for international students enrolled at a recognized Egyptian educational institution. This visa allows students to live in Egypt while pursuing their studies and also work part-time during their time in the country. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during school breaks.

To qualify for this visa, students must provide proof of enrollment at an accredited institution in Egypt and meet financial requirements to support themselves during their stay. The work must be aligned with the student’s academic program, and they may be employed in areas such as tutoring, customer service, or internships related to their field of study.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for international students who wish to work part-time to support themselves while studying in Egypt. It is also a great option for students who want to gain practical experience related to their academic field while living in the country.

Investment Residency Visa (Property Investor Visa)

The Investment Residency Visa (Property Investor Visa) is granted to foreign nationals who wish to invest in property in Egypt. This visa is available to those who purchase real estate worth a minimum of $200,000. The primary objective of this visa is to attract foreign investors in Egypt's real estate market, particularly in tourism, luxury housing, and commercial developments.

The Property Investor Visa provides residency for the investor, allowing them to live and work in Egypt while their investment is active. It is valid for a period of one year but can be renewed as long as the property investment remains intact. In many cases, the investor’s immediate family members (spouse and children) can also apply for residency under this visa.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who want to invest in Egypt’s real estate market, particularly those interested in residential or commercial property. It is best suited for high-net-worth individuals looking to secure long-term residency in Egypt while contributing to the local economy through property investment.

Permanent Residency Visa

The Permanent Residency Visa is available to foreign nationals who have lived and worked in Egypt for an extended period under a valid work permit or investor visa. After five years of continuous residence, foreign nationals may apply for permanent residency status, which allows them to live and work in Egypt indefinitely.

To apply for permanent residency, the individual must demonstrate that they have contributed to the local economy, maintained employment, and adhered to Egyptian laws. Permanent residents enjoy many of the same rights as Egyptian nationals, including the ability to work without a permit and access to local services. This visa is an attractive option for foreign nationals who wish to settle in Egypt for the long term.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for long-term expatriates who have lived and worked in Egypt for an extended period and wish to secure permanent residency. It is best for individuals who want to make Egypt their long-term home and enjoy the benefits of permanent residency.

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Requirements For a Work Permit in Egypt

Employers and foreign employees must meet several criteria to obtain a work permit in Egypt. These requirements ensure compliance with local labor regulations.

• Educational Qualifications: Applicants must have relevant degrees or diplomas, which may require verification by Egyptian authorities.
• Professional Experience: Evidence of experience in the relevant field, demonstrating the employee’s suitability for the role.
• Health Clearance: A medical examination, including an HIV test, is required to ensure the applicant is free from communicable diseases.
• Employer Justification: Employers must prove that no qualified Egyptian is available for the position.
• Quota Compliance: Employers must adhere to quotas limiting the number of foreign workers in their workforce.

Egypt Work Permit Application Process

• Secure a Job Offer: The foreign national must have a confirmed employment offer from an Egyptian employer.
• Employer Initiates Application: The employer submits the application to the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration, including the employment contract and proof of local candidate search.
• Obtain Entry Visa: The employee applies for a temporary or tourist visa to enter Egypt and begin the work permit process.
• Medical Examination: After arrival, the employee completes a medical exam, including an HIV test.
• Submit Work Permit Application: The employee submits all documents and medical results to the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration.
• Await Approval: Upon review, the authorities issue the work permit, allowing legal employment.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Egypt

Employers in Egypt are responsible for sponsoring work visas for foreign employees. This includes initiating the application process with the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration, submitting necessary documents (employment contract, proof of local recruitment efforts), and justifying the need for hiring a foreign national. Employers must also comply with labor quotas and assist employees with health clearances and other procedural requirements.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Egypt

The cost of obtaining a work permit or visa in Egypt varies depending on the visa type and applicant’s circumstances. Generally, the fees are as follows:

The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Egypt, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

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Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Egypt

Processing times for work permits in Egypt typically range from one to three months. Delays may occur due to incomplete applications or additional verification requirements.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Egypt

Renewing a work permit in Egypt follows a process similar to the initial application. Employers should start renewals well before the permit expires to avoid lapses in legal employment. The renewal process requires updated documents, including employment contracts and health clearances.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Egypt

Egypt does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa. However, remote workers can use tourist visas, including the new five-year multiple-entry tourist visa, to reside temporarily in the country.

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond entry.
• Visa Application: Complete the appropriate form.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or rental agreements.
• Financial Means: Evidence of funds to support the stay.
• Return Ticket: Proof of departure within the visa’s validity.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Egypt

Employing foreign nationals in Egypt involves several challenges:

• Complex Procedures: The application process is bureaucratic and requires extensive documentation.
• Quota Restrictions: Strict quotas limit the number of foreign hires.
• Lengthy Processing Times: Permits can take months, delaying employment start dates.

Tips: Start early, ensure documentation is accurate, and consult legal experts for smooth processing.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.