How To Start A Business in Egypt

How to Start a Business in Egypt - Step by Step Guidelines

Egypt offers an evolving business environment with growing opportunities for both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors. The General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) operates as the primary institution for company registration and investment facilitation.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Local Entrepreneurs

1. Choose a Legal Business Structure:
   Select the most suitable legal form (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Joint Stock Company). The LLC is the most popular for SMEs.
2. Reserve the Company Name:
   Reserve a unique company name through GAFI or at one of their service centers.
   Time: 1–2 days
3. Prepare Legal Documents:
   Draft the Articles of Association and collect other required documents such as IDs, lease contracts, and bank certificates.
4. Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital:
   Open a corporate bank account and deposit the required minimum capital.
   Minimum for LLC: EGP 50,000 (approx.)
5. Register the Company at GAFI:
   Submit all required documents including lease, capital deposit certificate, and Articles of Association.
   Fees: Around EGP 1,000 – 2,000 (varies by company type)
6. Obtain Commercial Registration:
   Issued by the Commercial Registry office.
7. Register for Taxes:
   Obtain a Tax Card and VAT registration from the Egyptian Tax Authority.
   Egyptian Tax Authority
8. Register with Social Insurance:
   If hiring staff, register your business and employees with the Social Insurance Organization.

Additional Steps for Foreign Investors

1. Register Investment with GAFI:
   Foreign investors are required to register their investment and project details with GAFI.
2. Obtain Work and Residence Permits:
   Foreign nationals must apply for appropriate work and residence permits through the Ministry of Interior.
3. Open Foreign Currency Bank Account:
   To handle capital repatriation and international transactions.

Useful Resources

• GAFI – General Authority for Investment and Free Zones
• Egyptian Tax Authority
• Egypt Government Services Portal