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.
| Visa Type | Description |
| Temporary/Tourist Visa | A renewable 30-day single-entry visa that can be converted into a work visa upon securing a work permit. |
| Ordinary Visa | Valid for three to five years; allows spouses to obtain a resident permit matching the duration of the work permit. |
| Special Visa | For expatriates born in Egypt before May 26, 1952, or those with 20+ years of residency; valid for ten years and renewable. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Egypt
When hiring talent in Egypt, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Egypt. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 1-3 months on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for:
Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Egypt.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Egypt
Independent professionals in Egypt can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Egyptian Pound (EGP) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Egypt.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Egypt
Transferring an existing team member to Egypt? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
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:
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Work Permit | Approximately 1,000 EGP |
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.
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.
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