A Complete Guide to Company Formation in Egypt 2026

Egypt remains one of the most strategic and rapidly expanding gateways for companies looking to enter the Middle East and North Africa. With the World Bank projecting growth to reach 4.2% in FY 2025–2026, now is an ideal time to enter the Egyptian market.

However, successful incorporation requires navigating a complex legal environment—making professional guidance essential. At Sultan Law Firm, we don’t just process documents; we build the legal foundation for your long-term success.

Why Choose Egypt?

1. Resilient Economy & Strong Growth

Egypt hosts over 100 million consumers and continues to attract significant foreign investment. It is the 2nd largest economy in Africa and ranks 64th globally as of 2025.

2. A Global Logistics Hub

Located at the crossroads of global trade, Egypt — especially the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) — provides unmatched access to markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The Suez Canal handles around 8% of global maritime traffic.

3. Investor-Friendly Legislation

Investment Law No. 72 of 2017 offers strong guarantees including:

• Fair treatment

• Profit repatriation

• Protection against nationalization

4. The “Golden License”

A major government reform that provides a unified approval for eligible projects — dramatically reducing bureaucracy.

Choosing the Right Legal Structure

Below are the most common structures available under Egyptian law:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Best for: SMEs, foreign subsidiaries, trading companies Shareholders: 2–50 (100% foreign ownership allowed) Capital: No statutory minimum (often from EGP 1,000) Management: One or more managers Liability: Limited to each partner’s share

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

Best for: Large industrial projects, public offerings Shareholders: Minimum 3 Capital:

• EGP 250,000 for closed JSC

• EGP 500,000 for listed companies 10% paid at incorporation Management: Board of at least 3 directors Liability: Limited to share value

One-Person Company (OPC)

Best for: Sole entrepreneurs Shareholders: One person Capital: Minimum EGP 1,000 Management: Owner or appointed manager Liability: Limited to declared capital

For most foreign investors, the LLC offers the ideal balance of flexibility and legal protection. Large-scale projects often benefit from the JSC structure.

Company Registration Pathway: Step-by-Step

The General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) is the primary authority overseeing company formation.

Phase 1: Pre-Registration

• Client & project assessment

• Security clearance for foreign founders

• Company name certification

• Bank account opening & capital deposit

Phase 2: Drafting & Submission

• Drafting Articles of Association

• Preparing the Power of Attorney

• Submitting the full incorporation file to GAFI

Phase 3: Post-Registration

• Issuance of Commercial Registration

• Obtaining the tax card

• VAT registration

• Social insurance registration

• Transitioning to a full operational bank account

Why Sultan Law Firm?

✔ Proactive legal problem-solving

✔ Deep governmental connections

✔ International standards, local expertise

✔ Fixed fees and transparent billing

✔ Full corporate legal support beyond incorporation

Conclusion

Egypt offers tremendous opportunities — but navigating its legal framework requires precision.

With Sultan Law Firm, you gain a strategic legal partner committed to building your success.

Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Let’s build your future in Egypt — together.