Egypt Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

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.

Work Permit Application Process in Egypt (Step-by-step)

In Egypt, the work permit process is employer-driven and closely linked to labor market protections and immigration controls. Your company will generally initiate the application inside Egypt, while the employee may enter on an appropriate visa and complete formalities after arrival.

• Step 1: The employer confirms the need for a foreign worker and checks sector-specific rules on foreign labor quotas. In many cases, employers must show that suitably qualified Egyptian nationals are not available for the role.
• Step 2: The employer gathers corporate documents. These typically include commercial registration, tax card, social insurance registration, and, where applicable, sector licenses to prove the company is duly established and compliant.
• Step 3: The employer collects the employee’s personal documentation. This often includes a valid passport, CV, educational and professional certificates, photos, police clearance from the home country, and any required medical certificates.
• Step 4: The employer submits the work permit application to the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration or the competent labor office. Authorities may request additional information, including justification for hiring a foreign national and confirmation of salary and role.
• Step 5: Security and background checks are conducted by relevant Egyptian authorities. During this stage, the employee may be required to provide further documents or attend in-person appointments, depending on the case.
• Step 6: Once the work permit is approved, the employee’s residence status is regularized through the Passports, Immigration and Nationality Administration. A temporary residence permit linked to the work permit is usually issued for a defined period, commonly up to one year, renewable.
• Step 7: The employer and employee maintain ongoing compliance. This includes observing the approved role and employer, renewing the work permit and residence permit before expiry, and notifying authorities of any changes in employment.

Requirements and Eligibility for a Work Permit

Eligibility for a work permit in Egypt depends on both the employer’s status and the foreign national’s qualifications. Authorities focus on protecting local employment opportunities while allowing specialized foreign skills where needed.

Common requirments inlcude:

• Corporate registration and good standing: The sponsoring company must be properly registered in Egypt, hold a valid commercial registration and tax card, and be in good standing with labor and social insurance authorities.
• Compliance with foreign labor ratios: Many employers must respect limits on the percentage of foreign workers compared with Egyptian staff. Exceeding these ratios can lead to refusals or additional scrutiny.
• Relevant qualifications and experience: The foreign employee is generally expected to have education and professional experience that match the role, particularly for technical or managerial positions.
• Clean criminal record and security clearance: Authorities may require police clearance from the home country and conduct local security checks to ensure the individual does not pose a security risk.
• Valid passport and lawful entry: The employee must hold a passport with sufficient validity and enter Egypt on an appropriate visa, such as an entry visa for work or business, before completing work permit formalities.
• Medical fitness: In some cases, medical examinations or certificates are required to confirm that the employee is fit to work and does not suffer from certain communicable diseases.

Work Permit Processing Time in Egypt

Processing times for Egyptian work permits and related residence permits can vary significantly. Factors include the completeness of the application, the need for security clearances, and the workload of the relevant authorities.

The typical processing time for a work permit or visa in Egypt can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, the sector, and whether any exemptions or special approvals are needed. Generally, you can expect the following timelines:

• Temporary Residence or Work Permit: Often around 2 to 4 months after all required documents are submitted and security checks are initiated, though complex cases can take longer.
• Permanent Residence: May take 12 to 24 months or longer, depending on eligibility category, background checks, and the completeness of long-term residence documentation.
• Short-Term Business or Work Visas: Typically processed in about 2 to 6 weeks once the application and supporting documents are filed, especially for short business visits or brief project assignments.

Expected Processing Timeline: Employer vs Employee

While each case is different, you can roughly map the process over several weeks, assuming documents are in order and no major issues arise.

• Week 1: Employer confirms role, checks foreign labor ratios, and starts gathering corporate and job-related documents.
• Week 2: Employee compiles personal documents, including passport copies, certificates, photos, and any required police or medical clearances.
• Week 3: Employer submits the work permit application to the competent labor authorities and responds quickly to any initial document queries.
• Weeks 4–8: Authorities conduct reviews and security checks; additional information or clarifications may be requested from the employer or employee.
• Weeks 8–12: If approved, the work permit is issued and the employee completes residence permit formalities with the immigration authorities.
• Weeks 12–16: Employee settles in-country, registers with social insurance if applicable, and the employer updates internal records and compliance calendars.

Who Does What During Egypt Work Permit Sponsorship?

• Employers are responsible for: Defining the role, confirming the need for a foreign hire, preparing and submitting the work permit application, paying official fees, and ensuring compliance with labor, immigration, and foreign labor quota rules. They must also track expiry dates and initiate renewals in good time.
• Employee is responsible for: Providing accurate personal information and supporting documents, attending any required medicals or interviews, and maintaining a valid passport and lawful immigration status. They must also comply with the specific terms of the work permit, including working only for the sponsoring employer in the approved role.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Egypt

Egyptian work permits are commonly granted for up to one year at a time and can be renewed, subject to continued compliance with foreign labor ratios, company good standing, and security considerations. Employers should usually start the renewal process several weeks to a few months before the current permit and associated residence permit expire.

Practice may vary by sector and individual circumstances, and requirements can change, so it is important to confirm current rules with the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration or local counsel. Building internal reminders and tracking systems helps ensure that renewals are filed on time and that employees do not fall out of status.

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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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.

Employer Compliance & Obligations 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.