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Register a Company in Egypt

Register a company in Egypt to gain numerous strategic advantages for both domestic and international investors. Egypt’s prime geographical location serves as a gateway to Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, facilitating access to key markets. With a robust legal framework, favorable economic policies, and significant government incentives, Egypt provides a supportive environment for business growth and investment opportunities.

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Register a Company in Egypt

Why Choose Egypt for Company Formation?

Strategic geographical location:

Serving as a gateway to the Middle East and Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east, providing access to major shipping routes.

Suez Canal:

One of the world’s most significant maritime passages, enhancing Egypt’s status as a central hub for international trade.

Market reach:

Efficient access to a vast market, benefiting from reduced shipping times and costs, crucial for industries reliant on imports and exports.

Economic policies and reforms:

Creating a conducive environment for business growth and investment through tax incentives, simplified regulatory procedures, and investment protection laws.

Free zones and industrial parks:

Offering additional benefits such as tax exemptions and customs incentives, significantly lowering operational costs.

Robust labor force:

Access to a large and youthful population, providing a robust labor force and a growing consumer market.

Infrastructure development:

Ongoing infrastructure development and a commitment to economic diversification.

Comprehensive framework:

Aimed at facilitating business operations and encouraging economic growth, making Egypt an appealing destination for both local and foreign investors.

Register a Company in Egypt

Choosing the Appropriate Company Structure

Shareholders:

Requires at least two shareholders, who can be either individuals or entities. There is no maximum limit on the number of shareholders.

Law:

Governed by the Egyptian Companies Law No. 159 of 1981 and its amendments, ensuring a structured and regulated environment for business operations.

Liability:

Shareholders are liable only to the extent of their share contributions, providing protection against personal liability for company debts.

Governance:

LLCs can be managed by one or more managers, who may also be shareholders.

Capital Requirements:

There is no minimum capital requirement for LLCs in Egypt.

Register a Company in Egypt

Foreign Ownership:

LLCs can be fully owned by foreign nationals or entities.

Taxation:

LLCs are subject to corporate tax in Egypt. Shareholders are also taxed on dividends.

Register a Company in Egypt

Documentation:

Forming an LLC requires submitting several documents, including the company’s Articles of Association, shareholder agreements, and proof of identity for shareholders.

Register a Company in Egypt

Registration Process:

The process to register a company in Egypt involves filing the necessary documents with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) and obtaining any required licenses and permits to operate legally in Egypt.

Shareholders:

Requires a minimum of three shareholders, who can be either individuals or entities. There is no maximum limit on the number of shareholders.

Law:

Governed by the Egyptian Companies Law No. 159 of 1981 and its amendments.

Register a Company in Egypt

Liability:

Shareholders are liable only to the extent of their share contributions, providing protection against personal liability for company debts.

Governance:

Joint Stock Companies (JSCs) must have a board of directors, which is responsible for the management of the company. Directors can be shareholders and are elected by the shareholders’ general assembly.

Register a Company in Egypt

Capital Requirements:

JSCs have a minimum capital requirement of EGP 250,000.

Register a Company in Egypt

Foreign Ownership:

JSCs can be fully owned by foreign nationals or entities, promoting international investment and participation in the Egyptian market.

Register a Company in Egypt

Taxation:

JSCs are subject to corporate tax in Egypt. Shareholders are also taxed on dividends.

Register a Company in Egypt

Documentation:

Forming a JSC requires submitting several documents, including the company’s Articles of Association, shareholder agreements, proof of identity for shareholders, and the initial capital deposit certificate.

Registration Process:

The process to register a company in Egypt involves filing the necessary documents with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), obtaining the required licenses and permits, and ensuring compliance with any regulatory requirements to operate legally in Egypt.

Ownership:

A sole proprietorship is owned and operated by a single individual or entity. The owner has full control over all business decisions and operations.

Law:

Sole proprietorships in Egypt are governed by the Egyptian Commercial Code, which provides the legal framework for their establishment and operation.

Register a Company in Egypt

Liability:

The owner has unlimited personal liability for all debts and obligations of the business. This means that personal assets can be used to satisfy business debts.

Register a Company in Egypt

Governance:

The sole proprietor manages the business personally. There is no requirement for a board of directors or other formal governance structures.

Register a Company in Egypt

Capital Requirements:

There are no minimum capital requirements for establishing a sole proprietorship in Egypt.

Register a Company in Egypt

Foreign Ownership:

Sole proprietorships can be owned by foreign nationals.

Register a Company in Egypt

Documentation:

Establishing a sole proprietorship requires the submission of various documents, including proof of identity, a business name registration, and any relevant licenses or permits for the business activity.

Register a Company in Egypt

Registration Process:

The process to register a company in Egypt involves filing the necessary documents with the relevant local authorities, such as the commercial registry and tax authorities, to legally operate the business.

Detailed Process to Register a Company in Egypt

Notary Services Slideshow

Step 1:
Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documentation, including copies of shareholders' passports or IDs, proof of address, and a proposed company name.

Step 2:
Draft and Sign Legal Agreements

Work with our legal team to draft the company's Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association. These documents outline the company's structure, purpose, and operational guidelines. Once prepared, the documents must be signed by all shareholders.

Step 3:
Submit Application to GAFI

Submit the company registration application to the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI). Our team will handle the submission and follow up with GAFI to ensure a smooth and efficient process. GAFI will review the application and approve it if all requirements are met.

Step 4:
Obtain Any Necessary Licenses

Once GAFI approves the application, obtain any required business licenses specific to your industry.

Frequently Asked Questions​

FAQ Section

What are the requirements to register a company in Egypt?

To register a company in Egypt, you need to fulfill the following requirements:

  • 1- A valid passport or national ID card for all shareholders and managers
  • 2- Proof of residence (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.)
  • 3- A business plan or description of the company’s activities
  • 4- Initial capital deposit (if applicable)
  • 5- Articles of Association and other incorporation documents

Can a foreigner register a company in Egypt?

Yes, foreigners can register a company in Egypt. They need to provide their passport, a valid visa, proof of residence in Egypt, and sometimes a letter from their employer or proof of income.

What types of companies can I register in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can register various types of companies including:

  • 1- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • 2- Joint Stock Company (JSC)
  • 3- Sole Proprietorship
  • 4- Branch Office
  • 5- Representative Office

What is the process to register a company in Egypt?

The process typically involves the following steps:

  • 1- Choose a unique company name and get it approved
  • 2- Draft and notarize the company’s Articles of Association
  • 3- Deposit the initial capital in a bank
  • 4- Register the company with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI)
  • 5- Obtain the necessary licenses and permits

How long does it take to register a company in Egypt?

The registration process typically takes a few weeks, provided all necessary documents are submitted. Some steps, such as obtaining approvals and licenses, may take longer.

What documents are required to register a company in Egypt?

To register a company in Egypt, you will need the following documents:

  • 1- Valid passport or national ID card
  • 2- Proof of residence
  • 3- Articles of Association
  • 4- Business plan or description
  • 5- Initial capital deposit slip
  • 6- Tax identification number

Can foreigners have full ownership of a company in Egypt?

Yes, foreigners can have full ownership of certain types of companies in Egypt, such as LLCs and JSCs. However, some restrictions may apply depending on the industry.

What taxes and fees are associated with company registration in Egypt?

Company registration in Egypt involves the following taxes and fees:

  • 1- Registration fees with GAFI
  • 2- Notarization fees for Articles of Association
  • 3- Corporate tax, which varies depending on the type of business and income
  • 4- Annual maintenance fees

Are there any incentives for foreign investors in Egypt?

Yes, Egypt offers several incentives for foreign investors, including tax breaks, exemptions, and special economic zones with favorable conditions. These incentives aim to attract and facilitate foreign investment in the country.

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