The process for acquiring a work permit for Egypt can be complicated, and the Egyptian authorities are inefficient at times. Luckily, employers will usually take care of the bulk of the paperwork involved in applying for a work permit. 

Since work permit applications require the participation of the expat's employer, it is not possible to obtain a work permit without a solid job offer from an employer in Egypt. In addition to a work permit, some expats will also need a visa before arriving in Egypt. 

Once they obtain their work permit, this temporary or tourist visa is converted to a work visa. The required paperwork for the various visa categories can change frequently and varies according to the applicant's nationality, so any applications are best handled by an agency or through one's hiring company.

Applying for a work permit for Egypt

Visa application

Before expats and their employers can begin the process of applying for a work permit, they will need to get clearance from the Egyptian National Security Agency and the employee will need to undergo an HIV test.

A work permit application form along with numerous supporting documents from both employer and employee are required for a work permit application. In some cases, additional documents may be requested. Once expats have secured a work permit for Egypt, it is usually valid for a year, after which it can be renewed for up to three years. 

Expats will also need a residence permit to stay in Egypt legally. Once obtained, it is typically valid for either one, three or five years. The process for obtaining a work permit for Egypt can be lengthy and employers will have to prove that no Egyptian national can fulfil the role adequately, so expats should begin the application process as early as possible. 

*Visa regulations and requirements for work permits are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

What do expats say about Egyptian work permit processes? 

"I do know many expats who have managed to get work visas, most of which have been organised through the companies they work for without any problems." See our interview with Sam, an expat from London, for more about his experience living in Egypt. 

Further reading

►For information on visa requirements for Egypt see our page on Visas for Egypt. 

Are you an expat living in Egypt?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Egypt. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.