Egypt is building big new cities and projects like the New Administrative Capital and the Suez Canal. Because of this, many foreign workers want to come and work here. If you plan to take an expat job in Egypt, you must first learn the strict employment visa rules. The government protects jobs for Egyptian people, so the rules are not easy. This simple guide uses basic English and explains everything step by step.
Compliance First: The 10% Work Quota Egypt
The 1:10 Rule
In almost every company in Egypt, only 10% of the workers can be foreigners. That means:
- For every 10 Egyptian workers → maximum 1 foreign worker.
What the Company Must Prove
- Your employer must show the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that no Egyptian person can do your job.
- They must prove your skills are very special and needed.
- Some top jobs (for example Managing Director) or companies under GAFI can sometimes get special permission, but most companies cannot.
Training Rule
When MOM gives approval, they usually say: the foreign worker must train an Egyptian person so that one day the Egyptian can take the job.
The Two-Stage Process: Permit vs. Residence
To work legally, you need TWO different papers from TWO different government offices.
Egypt Work Permit (Right to Work)
This paper says you are allowed to work and get salary in Egypt.
Who gives it?
Ministry of Manpower and Immigration (MOM)
When does the company apply?
Before you travel to Egypt (Prior to Entry Approval)
What happens after MOM says yes?
You take the approval letter to the Egyptian embassy in your country and get a special Multi-Entry Visa.
Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for Work (Right to Reside)
Who gives it?
Ministry of Interior (MOI) – department called PINA
What you must do after you arrive in Egypt
- Do medical check-up (HIV/AIDS test is compulsory) at Central Laboratory.
- Give all final papers to MOM.
Temporary permission
MOM gives you a receipt. This receipt works as Temporary Work Permit → you can start work immediately.
How long to get the final papers?
8–10 months because of Security Clearance check.
Final result
You receive the real Work Permit + Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for 1 year (renewable every year).
Required Documentation and Compliance
The application needs many papers. All papers from outside Egypt must be translated into Arabic and legalized.
Most Important Documents
- Signed Employment Contract in Arabic (or translated and legalized)
- University degrees and work experience certificates – original + Arabic translation + legalized
- Police clearance certificate (no criminal record) from your country
- Medical report from Egypt (after HIV test)
- Company documents: Commercial Register, Tax Card, Social Insurance, and list of Egyptian vs foreign workers
Other Important Duties
- You must pay income tax in Egypt
- Company must register you for Social Insurance and pay every month
- Wife/husband and children need separate Dependent Visa (linked to your permit)
- If job ends, the company must pay your flight ticket back home (Repatriation Obligation)
High-Demand Sectors for Expatriates
Even with the 10% rule, Egypt needs foreign experts in some fields.
Top sectors where foreigners get work permit more easily
- Oil, Gas & Energy (engineers, project managers, Zohr field, solar projects)
- IT & Technology in Cairo and Alexandria (cloud, cybersecurity, fintech, software)
- Big Construction & Infrastructure (new cities, bridges, Suez Canal projects)
- Specialist Doctors and medical trainers
Actionable Tips for a Smooth Application
Start very early
Begin the process 5–6 months before your job start date because security check is long.
Translation and legalization
This is the number one reason for delay. Do it correctly the first time.
Use professional help
Hire a licensed immigration lawyer or consultant in Egypt. They know MOM and MOI very well and save you time and stress.
Call to Action (CTA)
Do not let difficult rules stop your dream job in Egypt. Share this guide with your company today and make sure every paper is perfect. For safe and fast help, contact a trusted immigration lawyer in Egypt now.
Disclaimer:
This guide is only for information. Rules can change. Always check the latest information directly with MOM, MOI, or a licensed lawyer in Egypt before you apply.