- Cot Editor
- 0 Comments
- 116 Views
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Egypt? Full Legal Guide (2025)
A full guide for expats and foreign nationals buying property in Egypt. Understand the legal process, costs, required documents, and the role of certified translation.
Buying Property in Egypt as a Foreigner: Legal Tips, Costs & Translation Needs
With competitive prices, attractive locations, and a growing economy, Egypt has become an increasingly popular destination for foreigners and non-resident Egyptians looking to buy property—whether for personal use, rental income, or long-term investment.
But while the opportunity is real, there are legal procedures and language barriers to consider. Here’s everything you need to know about buying property in Egypt as a foreigner, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Can Foreigners Own Property in Egypt?
Yes—foreigners can legally own real estate in Egypt, with some conditions:
You’re allowed to own up to two residential properties, not exceeding 4,000 square meters in total.
Properties must be used for residential purposes, not commercial.
You can resell the property after 5 years (or 1 year with permission).
Non-resident Egyptians may have fewer restrictions depending on their citizenship.
Exceptions and additional rules may apply for properties in Sinai, coastal areas, or strategic zones.
What Documents Do You Need?
Here’s the typical list for foreign buyers:
A valid passport.
Tax registration number (can be issued in Egypt).
Sales contract (in Arabic).
Real estate ownership certificate.
Power of attorney (if represented by a lawyer).
Bank payment slips (proof of payment in foreign currency if required).
Certified translation of any foreign documents (if needed).
All foreign-language documents must be translated into Arabic and certified by a licensed translation provider like COT Translation Services.
Costs Involved in Buying Property
Property value (negotiated with the seller).
Registration fees (range from 2.5% to 5% of property value).
Lawyer or legal agent fee.
Certified translation & documentation costs.
Notary public fees.
Many foreigners also work with real estate agents or property consultants to navigate the local market.
Legal Process Overview
- Preliminary Agreement
Sign a reservation or deposit agreement after choosing the property. - Due Diligence
Your lawyer checks ownership, permits, debts, and zoning. - Final Contract Signing
Must be done in Arabic, with a certified translator present if you don’t speak Arabic. - Registration & Notarization
Final step is registering the property with the Real Estate Publicity Department.
Why Translation Is Crucial in Real Estate Deals
In Egypt, almost all real estate contracts and government documents are in Arabic. Errors in translation can lead to:
Misspelled names or passport numbers.
Misunderstood clauses or rights.
Delayed or invalid registration.
Rejected documents at banks or embassies.
That’s why COT provides:
Certified translation for contracts, POAs, IDs.
Embassy-approved formatting.
Real estate and legal terminology accuracy.
Same-day service available for urgent contracts.
How COT Translation Services Supports Real Estate Buyers
We translate:
Purchase and sale agreements.
Lease contracts.
Power of attorney documents.
Property valuations and bank forms.
Identity and ownership verification documents.
Whether you’re buying a flat in New Cairo, a villa on the North Coast, or an investment unit in downtown, we ensure your documents are accurate, accepted, and legally valid.
FAQs
Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner in Egypt?
Mortgages for foreigners are limited, but some banks offer special programs with larger down payments.
Can I buy under a company name?
Yes, many investors set up a local LLC or SAE and purchase through the company.
Can I rent out my property?
Yes, long-term or short-term rental is legal with a proper lease and tax compliance.
Start Your Real Estate Journey with COT
Call Us or Send the document via WhatsApp
Visit: www.cottranslation.com
Branches: Maadi – Downtown – Mohandessin
COT – Certified Translation for a Smooth Property Purchase in Egypt.
