Guide to Residency in Egypt

Obtaining a residency visa in Egypt is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Egypt gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the types of Egyptian residency permits
  • Visit the official website of the Egyptian Ministry of Interior or the Egyptian consulate/embassy in your country to understand the different types of residency permits available.
  • Choose the type of residency that suits your situation (e.g., work, study, family reunification, retirement).
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Passport with at least six months' validity and at least two blank visa pages.
  • Passport-sized photos with a white background.
  • Completed application form, which can be obtained from the Egyptian consulate/embassy or online if available.
  • Supporting documents relevant to the type of residency permit (e.g., work contract, university admission letter, marriage certificate).
  • Proof of financial means to support your stay in Egypt.
  • Health insurance coverage valid in Egypt.
  • Medical check-up report from an authorized hospital or clinic.
• Apply for an entry visa
  • Apply for an entry visa relevant to your residency permit (e.g., work visa, student visa) at the Egyptian consulate/embassy before traveling to Egypt.
  • Submit the visa application along with the required documents and visa fee.
• Enter Egypt and finalize residency procedures
  • Upon arrival in Egypt, proceed to the Ministry of Interior's Immigration and Nationality Administration office to complete your residency application.
  • Submit your documents and pay the residency permit fee.
  • Undergo any additional procedures required, such as fingerprinting.
• Apply for a Tax Number (if required for work)
  • Visit the official website of the Egyptian Tax Authority (ETA) or the nearest tax office to obtain the application form.
  • Fill out the application form with your personal and employment details.
  • Submit the form along with a copy of your passport, residency permit, and work contract.
  • Wait for the processing of your tax number, which may take a few days to a few weeks.
• Open a local bank account
  • Choose a bank that offers services to foreigners and has a good reputation.
  • Visit the bank in person with your passport, residency permit, and proof of address in Egypt (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement).
  • Complete the bank's application form and provide any additional documents they require.
  • Deposit the minimum required amount to open the account, if applicable.
• Register with the local police station
  • Visit the local police station within seven days of receiving your residency permit.
  • Bring your passport, residency permit, and proof of address.
  • Fill out the registration form and submit it to the police officer.
• Stay informed about renewal requirements
  • Keep track of the expiration date of your residency permit.
  • Check the Ministry of Interior's website or contact the Immigration and Nationality Administration office for information on how to renew your residency.
  • Prepare the renewal documents in advance and submit them before your current residency expires to avoid penalties.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the actual process may vary depending on the specific circumstances and changes in Egyptian immigration laws. It is always best to consult the Egyptian consulate/embassy or the Ministry of Interior for the most current and detailed information. Unfortunately, as of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, there is no centralized official English website for the Egyptian Ministry of Interior or Immigration and Nationality Administration office that provides detailed residency information. Therefore, direct contact with the Egyptian authorities is recommended for the most accurate guidance.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Egypt?

"In order to visit Egypt, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph to the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Egypt, foreign nationals must first obtain a residence permit. This can be done by submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of financial means to the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," commented one member living in Egypt.