Securing employment in Egypt requires foreign nationals to obtain both a work visa and a work permit. This guide outlines the essential steps and considerations for a successful application.

Types of Work Visas in Egypt

Egypt offers several visa categories for foreign nationals:

1. Work Visa: Issued after obtaining a work permit, allowing employment in Egypt.
2. Temporary/Tourist Visa: A 30-day single-entry visa, often used initially before converting to a work visa.
3. Ordinary Visa: Valid for three to five years; permits the employee's spouse to obtain a residence permit for the same duration.
4. Special Visa: For individuals born in Egypt before May 26, 1952, or those who have resided in Egypt for over 20 years; valid for 10 years and renewable.

Requirements for Obtaining a Work Permit

Employers in Egypt are encouraged to prioritize local hires, with non-Egyptian workers typically limited to 10% of the workforce and 20% of the payroll. To secure a work permit, the following are required:

1. Completed Application Form: Available from the Ministry of Manpower and Training Facilities.
2. Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
3. Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photos with a white background.
4. Employer's Incorporation Documents: Copies of the company's incorporation contract and commercial register.
5. Employee's Academic and Professional Certificates: Authenticated copies of degrees and qualifications.
6. Tax Identification: Copies of the employee's tax ID card.
7. Health Clearance: Negative HIV test result.
8. Justification for Hiring a Foreigner: A memorandum from the employer explaining the need to hire a foreign national.
9. Approval from Relevant Authorities: Necessary endorsements from governmental bodies.
10. Proof of Employment: A valid employment contract or job offer.
11. Security Clearance: Approval from the National Security Agency in Egypt.
12. Application Fees: Fees are subject to change; verify the current amount with the Ministry of Manpower.

Application Process

1. Pre-Approval and Entry Visa: Obtain a temporary or tourist visa to enter Egypt, which can later be converted into a work visa.
2. Submission of Application: The employer submits the work permit application to the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration on behalf of the employee.
3. Security Clearance: The applicant must secure clearance from the National Security Agency.
4. Medical Examination: Undergo an HIV test at an authorized medical facility in Egypt.
5. Approval and Issuance: Once all requirements are met, the Ministry issues a work permit, typically valid for one year and renewable for up to three years.

Important Considerations

1. Registration with Local Authorities: Register with the local police within seven days of arrival in Egypt.
2. Quota Limitations: Adhere to the stipulated quotas for foreign employees to avoid application rejections.
3. Documentation Accuracy: Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and translated into Arabic by a certified translator if necessary.
4. Processing Time: The process can take several weeks to months; it's advisable to begin the application well in advance of the intended start date.

For complete details and the latest updates on Egypt's work visa and permit regulations, refer to official sources such as the Egyptian Ministry of Manpower, the Egyptian Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Egypt e-Visa Portal. These resources provide reliable information to help ensure compliance with current requirements.