Essential Employment Paperwork in Egypt
Unlike other countries who require a separate visa and work permit, expats who wish to get employed in Egypt usually only need to apply for the latter. However, even if only one vital document is required, foreign assignees should still brace themselves for the vigorous application process due to government bureaucracy.
The typical application process of an Egyptian work permit can take months or even a year. The good thing is that, a huge part of the application is done by the employer so expats need to first secure a job offer because without one, it will be impossible to get a work permit. It is also the responsibility of the employer to get a clearance from the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration which is headquartered within the Mugamma in Tahrir Square, Cairo.
Application Requirements
The work permit for Egypt is usually valid for one year and can be renewed. Both the employer and the employee are required to pass a proof of a clean bill of health which includes an HIV test. Other relevant documents that need to be provided to obtain a work permit are:
- Valid Passport
- Seven passport-sized photos
- Two copies of the employer’s incorporation contract
- Two copies of the employee’s Tax ID Card
- Two copies of the employee’s academic qualifications (university degree certificates)
- Two copies of the employee’s professional certificates such as reference letter/s from previous employers
- Copy of the employer’s commercial register
- A memorandum coming from the employer why a foreign national should be hired instead of an Egyptian national
- A representative from the employer who will act as a sponsor of the work permit
- Security clearance issued by the Egyptian State Security Service
- Proof of payment of the 1,000 LE (Egyptian Pound) registration fee