A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors to Setting Up a Company in Egypt

Egypt is one of the most attractive markets for Arab and foreign investors, yet a successful investment starts with a sound legal setup: one that selects the right form for the entity and protects your capital from day one.

1. Choosing the right legal form

The right legal form depends on the scale of the business, the number of partners and the type of liability you want. The main options include:

• Joint stock company: suited to large projects, expansion and bringing in new partners.
• Limited liability company: the most common choice for medium-sized businesses.
• Single-person company: allows a sole founder to establish an independent entity with limited liability.
• Branch or representative office of a foreign company: for those who wish to operate in the Egyptian market under the umbrella of the parent company.

2. Preparing the core documents

• Copies of the partners' and managers' passports.
• Notarised powers of attorney, legalised by the Egyptian embassy in the investor's country.
• A precise definition of the business activity, capital and shareholding structure.
• The preliminary contract or the company's articles of association.

3. Procedures before GAFI (General Authority for Investment)

Incorporation is carried out through the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones. It involves reviewing the contracts and obtaining the approvals required for the type of activity, followed by issuing the commercial register and tax card. Certain strategic projects may qualify for the Golden License, which consolidates all approvals into a single one.

4. After incorporation

The legal work does not end once the commercial register is issued. The company needs clear internal regulations, well-drafted employment and supply contracts, and ongoing compliance with tax and regulatory obligations, in addition to residency procedures for the investor and their family.

Disclaimer: This article is for general legal information only and is not a substitute for specialised legal advice on your situation.