Practice Areas
Company Formation for Foreigners
Foreign founders can own an Egyptian company outright. We handle incorporation through GAFI in Cairo and deliver a fully operational company file.
What the service covers
Establishing LLC, OPC and branch offices for foreign founders through GAFI in Cairo — from name reservation to tax card and commercial register.
- GAFI incorporation and investor approvals
- Articles of association drafting
- Tax card, commercial register and social insurance file
- Bank account opening support and ongoing compliance
How we handle it
- 1
Structure advice, name reservation and GAFI filing
- 2
Articles of association and shareholder documents
- 3
Tax card, commercial register and social insurance file
- 4
Bank account opening support and ongoing compliance
Common risks to watch for
- Choosing the wrong legal form (LLC vs. branch vs. representative office) affects taxation, liability, and profit repatriation.
- Some activities require prior regulatory approvals; incorporating without them leaves the company unable to operate.
- Incomplete post-incorporation steps (tax card, social insurance, bank account) expose the company to penalties.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of an Egyptian company?
In most activities yes. Certain regulated sectors such as importation require specific structures, which we advise on before filing.
How long does company formation take in Cairo?
Typically one to three weeks from complete documents, depending on activity and security approvals.
Do I need to be in Egypt to incorporate?
No. A legalized power of attorney allows us to complete the incorporation on your behalf.
What is the minimum capital for an LLC in Egypt?
There is no fixed minimum capital for a limited liability company under the current Companies Law; the capital should simply be adequate for the activity. We recommend a practical amount based on your business plan and bank requirements.
Which legal forms can foreigners choose in Egypt?
The common options are the limited liability company (LLC), the one-person company, the joint stock company, and a branch or representative office of a foreign company. We compare them by liability, capital, management and tax treatment before filing.
Does my Egyptian company need a physical office?
Yes, a registered address is required for the commercial register and GAFI approval. We review your lease or office contract so it is accepted by the authorities without delaying the file.
Clients with this matter often also need: labour and employment lawyer in Cairo, corporate and commercial contracts lawyer in Cairo, trademark and intellectual property lawyer in Cairo.
Need a trusted lawyer in Cairo?
A confidential consultation with Mohamed Ashraf Hosny — Tahrir Square office, in front of the Cabinet.