Identify Your Eligibility
Among certain documents required for an Egyptian work permit application is a set of eligibility standards to meet before one can be considered for the application process.
As mentioned above, Employers in Egypt are encouraged to provide jobs for locals rather than foreigners, which is something that can dramatically impact work permits. Egypt also has a quota system, which can limit the number of Work Permits a company could have available for non-Egyptian workers. The number of foreign workers in any company should also not exceed 10% of the total staff and 20% of your total payroll.
If there are no Egyptian workers available, or if none qualify for the position, foreign workers can apply for a permit that’s valid for one year. It can then be renewed for a year at a time.
Before applying, each employee must acquire security clearance from the National Security Agency in Egypt. Then, they must collect a list of documents, outlined below.
Required Documents
Egyptian Entity:
- Commercial register (not older than 3 months).
- Tax card.
- Print out from social insurance authority as to the total number of employees in Egypt.
- Social Insurance Form N.2.
- Breakdown of number of foreign employees in the company in Egypt.
- The articles of incorporation of the mother company
- Request from the company addressed to the Ministry of Manpower.
- Power of Attorney (if applicable)
For Assignees (with No Dependents):
- Scanned Copy of Assignee’s Passport: A digital copy of the assignee’s passport is required.
- The certificates of experience from previous/current employer and their translation– both authenticated by Foreign Ministry legalisation office, Ministry of Manpower, and the Egyptian embassy.
- The original and Arabic translated version of the academic qualifications, authenticated by Foreign Ministry legalisation office, Ministry of Manpower, and the Egyptian embassy.
- The attached POA authenticated by the Egyptian embassy (if applicable)
- 7 Personal photographs.
For Assignees with Dependents:
- Marriage Certificate: The original marriage certificate should be translated into Arabic. Both the original and translated versions must be authenticated by Foreign Ministry legalisation office, Ministry of Manpower, and the Egyptian embassy.
- Children’s Birth Certificates: The birth certificates of the expat’s children should be translated into Arabic. Both the original and translated versions must be authenticated by Foreign Ministry legalisation office, Ministry of Manpower, and the Egyptian embassy.
Approval Process
In Egypt, obtaining a work authorisation involves several key considerations. Firstly, the submission of the application must take place within the country itself. Being physically present in the country is mandatory when applying for a work authorisation.
Processing Time
The processing time varies. Immediate proof of submission is provided, while the final work permit typically takes approximately 1 to 2 months to be issued.
Once the work permit receipt is in hand, individuals are allowed to commence their work activities in Egypt. The validity of the work authorisation extends up to a maximum duration of 1 year, making it suitable for longer-term engagements.
Renewal
An Egyptian work permit can be renewed in intervals of one year.
Conclusion and Final Advice
In conclusion, obtaining an Egyptian work permit requires careful consideration of eligibility criteria, document requirements, and the approval process. Foreign workers should be aware of Egypt’s preference for local employment and the quota system in place.
Gathering the necessary documents, including security clearance and company-related paperwork, is essential. The application process must be conducted within Egypt, and the processing time can vary. Once approved, the work permit is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
Navigating these steps diligently is crucial for a successful work permit application in Egypt, allowing individuals to pursue their employment opportunities in the country.
Written by Simon Carletti, PR and Creative Supervisor
