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How to Start a Business in Egypt as a Foreigner | 2025 Guide
A step-by-step guide for foreigners and non-residents who want to open a business in Egypt. Learn legal steps, documents needed, and how to register your company.
How to Start a Business in Egypt as a Foreigner or Non-Resident
Egypt is quickly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. With its strategic location, large population, and access to both African and Middle Eastern markets, it’s no surprise that many are looking to start a business in Egypt.
Whether you’re a non-resident Egyptian or a foreign national, this guide will walk you through the legal requirements, procedures, and best practices for launching your business in Egypt in 2025.
1. Choose Your Business Structure
The most common types of business entities in Egypt include:
Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Minimum 2 partners; common for small to mid-sized enterprises.
Joint Stock Company (SAE) – Best for large operations or foreign branches; requires 3 shareholders.
Sole Proprietorship – Easier setup, but limited to Egyptians or residents with work permits.
Branch Office – For foreign companies expanding into Egypt without a separate legal identity.
Tip: Most foreign entrepreneurs choose an LLC for flexibility and limited liability.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
To register your company, you’ll need to prepare and translate certain documents, including:
A valid passport copy.
Power of Attorney (POA) for your legal representative.
A translated and certified lease agreement for your office location.
The company’s Articles of Association.
Bank certificate showing minimum capital deposit.
National IDs or passports of all partners/shareholders.
Security clearance for specific business activities (if applicable).
Note: All foreign-language documents must be certified and translated into Arabic by a recognized translation office like COT Translation Services.
3. Register with GAFI (General Authority for Investment)
Your main point of contact will be GAFI. They handle company formation and licensing. Steps include:
- Submitting the application and documents.
- Verifying lease and capital deposit.
- Signing incorporation contract before a lawyer.
- Receiving the Commercial Registry Certificate.
- Getting your Tax Card and Social Insurance registration.
GAFI offices are located in Cairo and most major cities, and the process takes 5–15 working days depending on document accuracy.
4. Open a Business Bank Account
Once your company is registered, you’ll need to:
Open an account with a local Egyptian bank.
Deposit the required minimum capital (varies by company type).
Get a bank certificate for registration use.
Activate payment channels (SWIFT, online transfers, etc.).
5. Understand Local Compliance & Hiring
You may need an Egyptian partner or representative depending on the industry.
Foreigners may apply for a work permit linked to their business ownership.
Prepare employment contracts and register with labor offices.
File regular tax declarations and hire a certified accountant or legal advisor.
Advantages of Starting a Business in Egypt
Access to over 100 million consumers.
Competitive labor and operational costs.
Strong trade agreements (COMESA, GAFTA, EU).
Free zones and tax incentives for exporters.
Growing tech and startup ecosystem.
How COT Translation Services Can Help
At COT, we support foreign entrepreneurs with:
Certified translation of legal and business documents.
Multilingual contracts (Arabic-English-French, etc.).
Power of Attorney and registration papers.
Confidential and accurate formatting.
Embassy-approved translations for visas and licenses.
Whether you’re setting up a fintech startup or opening a trading company, we ensure your documents are clear, compliant, and ready to be submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to live in Egypt to start a business?
No, but you need a legal representative (agent or lawyer) with a valid Egyptian address.
Can I own 100% of the company as a foreigner?
Yes, in most sectors. Some sensitive sectors may require local partnership.
How long does it take to register a company?
Typically between 5 to 15 working days, depending on your documentation.
Ready to Build Your Business in Egypt?
Start strong with the right guidance and documentation.
Let COT Translation Services support your legal and language needs every step of the way.
Call Us or Send the document via WhatsApp
Visit: www.cottranslation.com
Branches: Maadi – Downtown – Mohandessin
COT – Your Gateway to Business Success in Egypt.
