Starting a business in Egypt requires assistance in all procedures with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI). We invite local and international investors to explore this page for information about the company incorporation in Egypt in 2026.
Can foreigners set up companies in Egypt?
Yes, there are no restrictions for foreign citizens opening companies in Egypt.
Is 100% foreign ownership permitted in Egypt?
Yes.
What types of companies/entities/structures can you open in Egypt?
- Limited liability company – LLC,
- Joint stock company – JSC,
- One-Person Company – OPC,
- Branches & subsidiaries of foreign companies,
- Liaison office,
- General & simple limited partnerships,
- Joint ventures – JV
Which is the most popular business entity in Egypt?
The limited liability company is the most popular business structure in Egypt.
What are the requirements for LLC formation in Egypt?
- Registration with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI),
- Name reservation – made with GAFI,
- Documents – prepare the Articles & Memorandum of Association, alongside copies of IDs/passports of shareholders,
- Local office – a registered business address in Egypt,
- Bank account – a corporate bank account for an LLC in Egypt.
- Power of attorney – if a company formation agent is in charge of company registration in Egypt on behalf of investors/shareholders.
How do I verify the business name before starting a company in Egypt?
We can do that for you. The process is conducted through the Trade Register in Egypt through GAFI.
Is Arabic translation & notarization required for opening a company in Egypt?
Yes, it is mandatory!
Can a business in Egypt be incorporated remotely?
Yes, we represent our customers through a power of attorney.
Can I open a branch in Egypt?
Yes, you can read here about the formalities.
Are special business licenses required in Egypt?
- Import & export – From the General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC).
- Manufacturing – The Industrial License from the Industrial Development Authority.
- Tourism – From the Ministry of Tourism in Egypt.
- Financial sector – From the Central Bank of Egypt or the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA).
- Healthcare – From the Ministry of Healthcare.
- Environmental – From the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency.
What are the requirements for opening a bank account in Egypt?
Opening a corporate bank account in Egypt requires the company documents, personal identification, a lease contract, POA, and notarized signatures.
How fast can you open a company in Egypt?
It takes around 3-6 weeks to set up a limited liability company in Egypt or less.
What are the annual company obligations for entities in Egypt?
- Annual General Assembly (OGA) – Within 3 months of the fiscal year end to approve financial statements, reports, dividend distribution, etc.
- Updating company data with GAFI,
- Renewal of commercial registration every 5 years,
- Monthly VAT returns,
- Quarterly tax payments,
- Social insurance reporting, etc.
What other obligations do business owners have in Egypt?
Company owners in Egypt must notify GAFI of any business update.
Are there business incentives in Egypt?
- Reduced corporate income tax (CIT) (currently at 22.5%,
- No stamp tax,
- Capital gains exemptions for the sale of equipment/machinery,
- 35%-55% CIT refund for companies activating in the green energy sector in Egypt.
Ready to start a company in Egypt in 2026? Please contact our company formation specialists in Egypt and benefit from our personalized services.