Updated September 2026
Forming a company in Egypt should begin with an activity and licensing assessment, not merely a name reservation. A foreign investor must determine whether the proposed activity permits the intended ownership, which entity fits the investment plan, and which approvals are required before trading.
Can a foreign investor own 100%?
Foreign investors may own the full capital of companies carrying out many activities. Regulated sectors, restricted locations and specially licensed activities may apply additional ownership, capital or approval rules.
Main structures
- Limited liability company for closely held operating businesses.
- Single-member company for one investor.
- Egyptian joint-stock company for larger projects and institutional funding.
- Foreign company branch for activities carried out by an overseas parent.
- Representative office for market study without commercial revenue.
Core documents
Typical files include name-clearance evidence, valid passports, properly legalised powers of attorney, auditor and legal adviser details, foreign-founder security inquiry forms, and any prior sector approval. Foreign documents usually require legalisation and certified Arabic translation.
Formation and operation
- Review activity, ownership and licensing.
- Select the entity and governance structure.
- Prepare and legalise documents.
- Complete GAFI execution and commercial registration.
- Organise tax, social insurance, banking, premises and sector licences.
A commercial register proves the entity exists; it does not replace operating licences.
Request a company formation assessment
