How to obtain a residence permit in Egypt: documents and application procedure

Visa regulations for entering Egypt: a comprehensive analysis

Egypt stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists, offering a straightforward visa process. Citizens of Russia and Ukraine have the privilege of obtaining a visa upon arrival at the airport. However, residents of Belarus and Kazakhstan should take care of their visa in advance when planning a trip with their own transport. If they decide to travel to Egypt as part of a group, they will also be able to obtain a visa upon arrival in the form of a stamp or sticker.

Ways to obtain a visa

There are several ways to obtain a visa for traveling to the Arab Republic of Egypt:

• Contact the consular office of the embassy.
• Obtain a visa on arrival;
• Use the online application through the specialized portal of the Ministry of Interior of Egypt.

Visa on arrival

When obtaining a visa on arrival, the tourist is required to purchase a stamp for the amount of25 US dollars, which will be inserted into his foreign passport. This will allow him to stay in Egypt for30 days...after which travelers will have more...14 daysfor leaving the country. However, for Russian citizens, this period is extended tothree months.

Stamp "Sinai Only"

Those arriving in the Sinai Peninsula can obtain a free "Sinai Only" stamp, which allows them to stay in this region for15 daysafter crossing the border. If travelers intend to stay longer or visit cities like Luxor or Cairo, they will need to obtain a visa for25 dollars.

Electronic tourist visa

More than70 countriesIncluding Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, can obtain an electronic tourist visa in advance through this online portal. Visa services are divided into:

• One-time, at a cost of25 dollars;
• Multiple times for60 dollars.

Please keep in mind that each child, regardless of age, requires a separate passport and visa under the same conditions as adult travelers.

Visa extension

If the validity of a tourist visa is nearing its end, there is a possibility to extend it. To do this, you need to contact the local branch of the Gavadat that deals with migration and passport control issues. It is important to remember that a visa can be extended for no more thanthree timesthat allows you to stay in the country for up tonine months.

Acquisition of real estate

In addition, purchasing real estate in Egypt offers the opportunity to obtain a long-term tourist visa. This is a great option for those who want to spend a longer time in the country.

Conclusion

In the end, Egypt's visa regime is quite convenient and flexible for tourists. It is important to remember all the nuances and deadlines to avoid negative situations with immigration services and to fully enjoy your stay in this amazing country.

Obtaining a long-term visa for Egypt

The process of obtaining a long-term visa for staying in Egypt is possible for a period of up to six months, with the prospect of extending it for a whole year. It is important to note that if you decide to leave the country, your visa will be automatically canceled. However, upon your return, you can reapply for it.

Ways to obtain a long-term visa

There are several options for obtaining a long-term visa:

• The first option is to contact the Egyptian consulate. For example, the Moscow embassy offers the possibility to obtain a visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to three months, which is more than 30 days.
• The second method involves arriving in Egypt with a temporary tourist visa and, while in the country, contacting the Passport and Immigration Service (Gazavat) to change the visa status to a long-term one.

Contact information for Egyptian diplomatic missions

Consulates and embassies of Egypt can be found in various countries:

• In Russia:Moscow, Kropotkinsky Lane, 12.
• Phones: +7 (495) 246-30-96, 246-02-34, fax: +7 (095) 246-10-64.
• In Ukraine:Consular department in Kyiv, Observatory Street, 19.
• Phones: (+38 044) 212-13-27, 216-65-30, and (+38 044) 216-94-28.
• In Kazakhstan:Embassy in Astana, Sarayshyk Street, 30.
• Phones: +7 (7172) 286067, +7 (7172) 241830.

Residence permit (RP) in Egypt

The conditions for obtaining a residence permit in Egypt, as well as the provision of citizenship, are regulated by the law "On Foreigners." The main reasons for applying for a residence permit include:

• studies
• reunion with family;
• marriage to a citizen of Egypt;
• tourism;
• business management;
• investments in the country.

Tourist residence permit

Foreigners wishing to stay in Egypt for an extended period without specific grounds can apply to the gazavat for a temporary tourist residence permit, known as "ikama as-siyaha al-muwaqqata." To do this, the following will be required:

• a completed application form (which is issued by the migration service employees);
• copies of documents confirming the purpose of stay (for example, rental or purchase of real estate);
• two copies of the first page of the foreign passport and the page with the valid visa;
• two photographs measuring 30×40 mm.

It is also important to remember that if the basis for obtaining a residence permit is a rental agreement, it must be notarized by a local notary. After completing all the formalities, a visa waiting stamp is placed in the foreign passport, allowing one to legally stay in the country until a response is received regarding the application for "ikumu" or until a notification of denial is received.

Typically, the review of an application takes about two months. It is important to note that the time spent in Egypt under the visa waiting stamp counts towards the overall validity period of the subsequent "iqama."

Temporary visas for staying in Egypt

A temporary visa for travel to Egypt can be issued for a period of up to six months, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that according to the law, the total duration of a foreigner's legal stay based on this visa should not exceed one year. If a traveler needs to leave Egypt and return while their registration is still valid, they will need to obtain a separate single-entry visa or purchase in advance a special return visa known as "tashira al-auda," which replaces the entry visa.

Long-term residence permits

According to the information presented on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Hurghada, since 2018, foreigners investing in real estate in Egypt in the amounts of $100,000, $200,000, or $400,000 are entitled to receive long-term residence permits for:

• one year
• three years
• five years

However, real estate specialists note that when purchasing a property for up to 500 thousand dollars, a temporary tourist residence permit is usually issued.

Real estate in Egypt

Speaking of real estate in Egypt, we would like to offer you an option for an apartment in Hurghada, the price of which is18,945 eurosThis is a residential space with a total area of41 square metersincludes one bedroom and a bathroom. This apartment is offered with the possibility of obtaining a residence visa and is available for remote purchase with payment in Russian rubles or cryptocurrency. The property is located in a new club house with a swimming pool in the very center of Hurghada, just a short distance from...200 metersfrom the shoreline. In close proximity, there is a well-developed infrastructure, including the City Mall shopping center, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants.

Luxurious villa in Sharm El Sheikh

Another interesting offer is a villa in Sharm El Sheikh for532,278 eurosThe area of this luxurious property is310 m²and includes5 roomsand3 bathroomsThe villa is located within the five-star Domina Coral Bay resort and is fully furnished, ready for occupancy. The complex offers a variety of amenities, such as:

• pools
• restaurants
• spa salons
• beach clubs
• diving opportunities

This makes the villa very appealing to vacationers.

Another housing option in Hurghada

In addition, an apartment is available for sale in Hurghada for14,859 eurosIts area is29 m²a one-bedroom apartment with a bathroom. When purchasing, there is also the option to apply for a residence visa. As in previous cases, a remote transaction and payment in rubles or cryptocurrency are possible. This property is located in a modern club complex in a prestigious part of the city, in an area with low-rise buildings in Magavish. Just a few minutes' walk away are:

• supermarkets
• Senso Mall shopping center
• embankment

The beach is located approximately atone kilometerfrom a complex that consists of three floors and includes22 residential units.

Conclusion

Thus, the real estate market in Egypt offers a variety of interesting options suitable for both personal living and investment purposes. The possibility of obtaining a residence visa makes purchasing property even more appealing for foreign citizens. We hope this information will be helpful and assist you in making your decision.

Apartments and villas in Egypt: investments and housing

Apartments and villas in Egypt represent a wonderful opportunity for both investment and personal living. For example, there is an option to purchase an apartment in Sahl Hasheesh with a total area of 54 square meters for just 130,000 euros. This living space offers one bedroom and can serve as a basis for obtaining a residence permit upon purchase.

There is an opportunity to arrange a remote transaction, and payment can be made either in rubles or using cryptocurrency. This property is ideal for renting out due to its location in a modern luxury residential complex called "Veranda," part of which has already been completed.

The complex is located just 20 kilometers from Hurghada Airport and is surrounded by green landscapes covering an area of 130,000 square meters, making it an excellent place for relaxation and living.

Apartment in Sharm El Sheikh

It is also worth noting the offer of an apartment in Sharm El Sheikh, priced at 25,000 euros. The area of this property is 37 square meters, and it includes one bedroom. Residents have the opportunity to obtain a residence permit by taking advantage of an online viewing and remote transaction.

The residential complex is located in the center of the resort, in the prestigious area of Naama Bay. Within walking distance, you can find:

• places for walks
• a variety of restaurants and cafes
• shopping malls
• beauty salons

The sea is just one kilometer away from the complex, and on its territory there are:

• several pools
• rest areas
• hookah lounge

Villa in Sahl Hasheesh

For those who want something more luxurious, there is a magnificent villa in Sahl Hasheesh for 1,600,000 euros. This unique property covers a vast area of 700 square meters and offers the possibility of citizenship.

The villa is located on the shores of the Red Sea and consists of three floors, in which are located:

• eight spacious bedrooms
• private pool
• stunning sea view

This is truly a wonderful chance to enjoy comfortable living in an upscale neighborhood.

Apartment in El Gouna

There is also an apartment available in El Gouna for €265,000. This apartment has an area of 105 square meters and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The apartment is decorated in a stylish Arabic design and is located in the popular West Golf area.

The open kitchen and living room create a comfortable space, and the spacious terrace offers magnificent panoramic views of the lagoon and pools, making this property a great option for both self-catering and rental.

One bedroom apartment in Hurghada

It is not unreasonable to consider a one bedroom apartment in Hurghada, costing only 19,500 euros. The total area of this apartment is 64 square meters and it includes one bedroom. It is located in the tourist area of El Aheya, just ten minutes from El Gouna and twenty minutes from the international airport.

The apartment is located on the third floor of a five-story building and is offered with the possibility of a remote deal. This comfortable dwelling will be a great option for vacation or renting.

Conclusion

All of the above options provide unique opportunities for living and investing in Egypt, which will be relevant for both permanent residence and rentals.

An extensive selection of objects with different cost and area allows everyone to find a suitable option that meets their requirements and desires.

Apartment in Hurghada

There is an apartment for sale in Hurghada, Egypt, at a price of21,700 euros. This two-bedroom apartment is83 square metersis located in a popular tourist area called El Ahya. This is a great opportunity to get a home in a developing region, just 10 minutes from the famous resort of El Gouna and 20 minutes from the international airport.

The apartment is on the third floor of a five-story building and includes:

• two bedrooms;
• spacious living room;
• kitchen;
• the bathroom.

The complex is ideal for both permanent residence and for use as an investment.

Villa in Sahl Hasheesh

Another interesting opportunity is a villa in Sahl Hasheesh, which is being offered for a337,000 euros. This magnificent villa is characterized by its impressive size - .212 square metersand comprises three floors as well as five bedrooms.

The main features of the villa are:

• your own plot;
• pool;
• high quality finishing materials;
• air conditioners in every room.

The villa is located by the shore of the Red Sea, providing direct access to the beach and to all the amenities of the residential complex.

Apartment in Hurghada for 14,859 euros

The next offer is an apartment in Hurghada for14,859 eurosThe total area of this apartment is29 square metersIt consists of one bedroom and a bright living room.

The complex in which the apartment is located:

• modern building with a high level of comfort;
• is located in the central part of Hurghada, in the prestigious Magawish neighborhood;
• developed infrastructure: chain supermarkets and shopping center “Senzo mol” are located nearby;
• the beach is only one kilometer away;
• a gated complex of three floors.

Furnished apartment in Sharm El Sheikh

In Sharm El Sheikh we offer furnished apartment with the area of65 square metersat the price60,000 euros. The living space includes one bedroom and is designed with all modern requirements in mind.

The main advantages of the complex are:

• is in the heart of Naama Bay;
• convenient access to shopping and entertainment venues;
• several swimming pools on the grounds;
• recreation areas, cafes, a kindergarten and a mini-market;
• proximity to the sea (500 meters).

Stylish apartment in Hurghada

Another offer - a stylish apartment in Hurghada for a16,961 euros. It is a furnished studio with a total area of28 square metersLocated in the prestigious neighborhood of El Ahia, just 10 minutes walk from the nearest free beach.

The complex includes:

• two swimming pools;
• cafe;
• mini-supermarket;
• 24-hour security service.

This apartment could be a good rental opportunity.

Another apartment in Sharm El Sheikh

Lastly, another apartment in Sharm el Sheikh is offered at a price of54,130 euros. It is also fully furnished and has one bedroom, occupies .65 square meters.

The complex offers amenities and close proximity to the beach, making it attractive to long-term renters. These property options allow you to choose from a number of attractive offers that are suitable for both personal residence and future rentals.

Residential complex in Sharm El Sheikh

In the heart of Sharm El Sheikh, in the well-known circles of Naama Bay, is a residential complex with excellent infrastructure. Just five hundred meters from the shore, there are comfortable living conditions, including several swimming pools, recreational areas, cafes, a kindergarten and a mini-market.Management Companyon the territory of the complex provides a high standard of living.

Villa in Hurghada

In Hurghada is for salevillawith an area of 300 square meters, located in the prestigious area of El Hilal, which is famous for its status. The sea is only 100 meters away and the hotel is located next to itSea Star Beau Rivage5*. The drive to the airport will take only 10 minutes.

Residential properties for sale

There are 22 residential complexes on the market, among which an apartment from sunresidence is offered for €17,850. This apartment in Hurghada is 37 m² in size and includes one bedroom and one bathroom. The purchase is available with a residence permit. The purchase procedure can be done remotely, with the option to pay in both rubles and cryptocurrency.

The property is ideal for subsequent rental and is located in a new modern residential complex from a reliable developer. There are also installment terms for up to a year, in addition to promotions and special offers.

New Residential Complex “Aqua Infinity”

The new residential complex, named Aqua Infinity, is the third development of this construction company and is located in the actively developing area of Hurghada - El Gamasa, near El Gouna. It is worth noting that the nearest beach is only 400 meters away. Apartment owners can use all the amenities and infrastructure of the complex.

Additional Suggestions

Anyone interested can consider more than 162 such offers.

• Foreigners can apply for a residence permit, often referred to as “ikama li gheir al-siyah”.
• Obtaining residency status for other reasons can be more complicated, requiring a strong case for the need to reside in Egypt.

Investment opportunities

For foreign nationals wishing to invest in the Egyptian economy, there are conditions for obtaining a residence permit through the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI). This status is granted for up to five years, with close relatives of the main applicant also eligible for a residence permit. However, keep in mind that the entry threshold for the program is quite high and may require an investment of hundreds of thousands of dollars in a business in Egypt.

Study and Residence Permit

Children studying in educational institutions in Egypt can become holders of a residence permit. Parents may apply together with the child, including all immediate family members. The visa is issued for a period of one year with the possibility of extension.

• This status provides the possibility of visa-free border crossing.
• Does not give the right to work in the Republic.

To apply for a residence permit, you will need:

• Confirm the child's enrollment and tuition payment.
• Provide a notarized rental housing agreement.
• Show the latest electricity bills.

Obtaining Resident Status

Foreigners wishing to obtain residency status may do so provided:

• Registrations of their activities.
• Obtaining a work permit from the Department of Labor.
• Registration with the chamber of commerce and tax authorities.

The residence permit is issued for one year, renewable.

Simplified Terms for Pensioners

Pensioners who have reached the age of 60 can benefit from simplified conditions upon arrival in Egypt:

• Upon entry, only the visa fee is paid, and there is no obligation to extend it.
• They have the right to stay in the country for an unlimited time.

In cases of contacting government agencies, pensioners can reach out to Gazavat (the passport and migration service), where they can obtain resident status within a few weeks without any additional costs.

Application for a residence permit in Egypt

After a foreigner has spent five years in Egypt, they have the opportunity to apply for a permanent residence visa (PRV) if they have the financial means to support themselves. Holders of an "ikama" that is not intended for tourists can freely return to the country without a visa, as long as their absence from Egypt does not exceed six months.

This type of "ikama" can be issued for a whole year with the possibility of extension if there are valid reasons and the necessary documents.

Rules for obtaining a residence permit

The procedures for obtaining a residence permit are detailed by the Ministry of Interior of Egypt. Foreigners seeking to obtain a residence permit for a period of five years with the option to extend can do so for several reasons:

• Investors whose companies meet the requirements of the legislation regulating investments in the country.
• Egyptians who lost their citizenship during the naturalization process in other countries.
• Children of Egyptians born to Egyptian mothers or widowers of Egyptians with a five-year residence permit.

Benefits for certain categories of foreigners

Benefits in terms of deadlines are provided to citizens over sixty years old, if they have lived in Egypt for at least five years and possess the necessary resources for living. This category also includes:

• Wives of Egyptians and widowers of Egyptians who have been married for at least two years.
• Wives of foreigners who have a valid "ikama" for three years, and their children.

Temporary residence permit

Certain categories are designated for obtaining a three-year residence permit with the right to extend.

• Foreigners married to Egyptian women for more than five years.
• Employees of the public sector and residents of nursing homes.
• Foreigners who have received a residence permit for three years with the consent of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Penalties for violating deadlines

It should be noted that there are penalties for violating the established duration of stay in the country:

• If you are late with your visa or residence permit within the first three months, the fine is 1,655 Egyptian pounds.
• For each subsequent three-month period, the amount increases by 550 pounds.
• Fines for working with a tourist visa range from £1,000 to £5,000.

Exemption from fines

Some categories of foreigners are exempt from paying fines for violating deadlines:

• Minors under 16 years old.
• People over 60 years old.
• Spouses of Egyptian citizens.
• Foreign specialists sent to Egypt.
• Military personnel on assignment and investors when contacting the Ministry of Investments.

If a person was unable to attend the migration office due to health reasons and provides the appropriate certificate, they can also expect to be exempt from fines.

Useful information about residence permits and immigration

On our Telegram channel, you will find valuable information on key topics such as investments, immigration, and real estate. If you are interested in the process of obtaining a residence permit (RP), it's important to note that the required set of documents will vary depending on the purpose of your application.

Requirements depending on the purpose of the request

For example, businesspeople will need special permission from local authorities, while students will need to provide proof of enrollment in an educational institution as well as evidence of tuition payment.

General documents for submission

Despite the differences in requirements, all applicants must prepare a number of common documents:

• A valid foreign passport with a validity of at least six months;
• Four photographs in a format that meets passport requirements;
• Civil passport with copies of all significant pages;
• Proof of financial status (bank statement, dividend documents, or income certificate).

Additional requirements

It will also be necessary to provide:

• Rental agreement for housing or certificate of ownership for it;
• Documents confirming marital status (marriage or divorce certificate);
• Medical insurance with a minimum coverage of $15,000;
• A certificate of absence of serious illnesses and a blood test from the local clinic;
• A certificate of no criminal record from your country;
• Receipt for the payment of the state duty for processing the status.

It is important that all documents are translated into English or Arabic at an accredited translation agency.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

As for the process of obtaining a residence permit, permanent residency, and citizenship, the application must be submitted to the local office of the Egyptian migration service where you are located. Additionally, you can contact the Egyptian consulate in your country of residence.

Usually, after all the documents are accepted, the candidate is invited for an interview, and during the waiting period, a stamp is placed in the passport allowing them to stay in Egypt until a final decision is made on the residence permit application or a notification of refusal is received.

Application result

If the decision is positive, the foreigner is issued a plastic card with their photo and personal information. Usually, the application processing time takes from one to four weeks, but in practice, this period can stretch to two or three months.

Extension of residence permit

In case of needing to extend the residence permit, an application must be submitted no later than two weeks before the expiration date. The same set of documents will be required as for the initial application. The applicant will need to confirm that the grounds for extending the resident status are still valid.

Permanent residency in Egypt

As for permanent residency (PR), foreigners who have lived in Egypt on a residence permit for at least five years are eligible to apply. Keep all these nuances in mind when preparing documents for immigration and obtaining a residence permit in this country.

For foreign investors and businessmen, as well as for individuals granted refugee status, simplified conditions have been introduced for obtaining permanent residency in Egypt. This is possible without the need to wait the five-year period required for temporary residents. An important point is that when applying for permanent residency, applicants will need to pass a language proficiency test in either Arabic or English, as well as familiarize themselves with the basic laws and regulations in effect in the country.

Conditions for obtaining Egyptian citizenship

As for the process of obtaining Egyptian citizenship, according to Article 4 of the country's legislation, citizenship can be granted to certain categories of people. First of all, to foreigners who were born in Egypt and reside there at the time of reaching adulthood. A number of conditions must be met for this:

• to be in good physical and mental condition;
• to have no criminal record (or to have rehabilitation);
• to be able to speak Arabic
• to have a stable legal income.

Secondly, citizens of other countries can obtain a passport after ten years of residence in Egypt, provided they meet the specified conditions. Thirdly, women who are citizens of other countries and marry Egyptians have the opportunity to acquire citizenship if their marriage is officially registered according to Egyptian laws.

Opportunities for foreign citizens

There are also opportunities for foreign citizens who have made a significant contribution to the development of Egypt's economy to obtain citizenship. The decision to grant citizenship can also be made by the country's president. Russian citizens have the right to apply for a second Egyptian citizenship.

Programs for obtaining citizenship through investment

There are also programs that allow obtaining citizenship through investments. In March 2020, legislation number 190 was adopted, which establishes the conditions and mechanisms for obtaining passports through investments in the Egyptian economy. Egypt offers several different schemes for investors. Among them:

• acquisition of real estate for an amount of 500 thousand dollars or more;
• investments in local businesses starting from 400 thousand dollars;
• a donation of 250 thousand dollars;
• Placement of a zero-interest bank deposit for a term of three to five years in the amount of at least 750 thousand dollars.

Assistance with obtaining a temporary residence permit

To simplify the process of obtaining a temporary residence permit, many choose the services of accredited intermediaries. You can also contact one of the companies listed on our portal, whose staff speak Russian and are ready to provide the necessary assistance. However, it is important to keep in mind that all procedures are controlled by government authorities, and no one can guarantee a 100% positive outcome of the consultation.

The amount of the state duty

The fee for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Egypt ranges from 500 to 5000 Egyptian pounds, which is approximately 17 to 167 US dollars. Every aspiring emigrant should consider all these aspects to ensure a successful stay in this wonderful country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to summarize the key aspects regarding the visa regime, residence permits, and citizenship in Egypt. The country, as you can understand, attracts not only tourists but also those who are considering a longer stay, whether for work, study, or even starting a family.

Egypt is steeped in history and culture that attracts people from all over the world, and the opportunities here are truly vast. The key to successfully processing documents is understanding the rules and regulations in this Arab republic. As I mentioned, there are several ways to obtain a visa:

• through the consulate,
• upon arrival,
• or even online.

For citizens of certain countries, including Russia, traveling to Egypt can be significantly simplified thanks to electronic visas and streamlined conditions.

Residence permit and permanent residence

When it comes to residence permits and permanent residency, it's important to prepare all the necessary documents in advance and be aware of the reasons why a visa may be denied. For example, the presence of...operational real estateIn Egypt, additional opportunities for obtaining a long-term visa are opening up.

The process of obtaining citizenship

For those who decide to stay in Egypt on a permanent basis, knowledge of the citizenship application process can play a key role. Every step requires attention and care to avoid unnecessary delays.

In conclusion, I want to say that Egypt offers many opportunities for new beginnings and vibrant experiences. If you plan to spend more time here, beyond just enjoying the sunny beaches, I hope this article has helped you gain a more comprehensive understanding of the visa regulations and the document processing. Wishing you success in your endeavors!