Many company-formation steps in Egypt can be completed by an agent, but the file depends on the power of attorney’s wording and authentication chain. A general or abbreviated mandate may not satisfy the Investment Authority, notary, commercial register, or bank.
Authorities to consider
The mandate may need to expressly cover forming companies, signing articles and statutes, appearing before GAFI, the notary and commercial register, reserving a trade name, changing objects or capital, dealing with tax and insurance authorities, obtaining records, and paying fees. Include banking or account-under-formation powers only if needed and accepted by the bank. Delegation to another agent should be stated if intended.
When the agent is also a shareholder
GAFI guidance indicates that an agent who is a shareholder and will sign an agreement involving themselves may need express authority to contract with themselves and third parties. Omitting this wording can prevent the agent from signing for the principal in that transaction.
Documents executed abroad
The power is signed before the competent authority in the investor’s country, then follows the applicable consular or treaty authentication route. It may require further authentication in Egypt and certified legal translation. The sequence depends on the issuing country and agreements in force.
Common errors
- Name differs from the passport.
- No express authority to form a company and sign its documents.
- Missing self-dealing authority for an agent who is a partner.
- Foreign company mandate without proof of the signatory’s authority.
- Expired documents or incomplete authentication and translation.
- Unnecessarily broad banking powers.
Before issuing the mandate, define the company type, agent’s role, bank, and authorities involved. The goal is sufficient, specific authority that protects the investor and lets the file proceed. Source: GAFI Investor Services Center Guide 2026. General information; review the wording and authentication route for the specific country.
