Registering a company in Egypt is a detailed process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones and the Egyptian Tax Authority. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Egypt. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this dynamic and growing market.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step is to decide the type of company you wish to register. The common types in Egypt are:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Joint Stock Company (JSC)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
You will need to choose a unique name for your company. The Egyptian Commercial Registry has guidelines for acceptable names and a name-check facility, which can be accessed here: https://www.cro.gov.eg/
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, you need to prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for LLC and JSC)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be obtained from the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) website: http://www.gafi.gov.eg/
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
For an LLC or JSC, you need to identify at least one director. For a branch of a foreign company, a representative needs to be identified. Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
Egypt requires a minimum capital of EGP 50,000 for LLCs, EGP 250,000 for JSCs, and there's no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI). This can be done in person or online via the following link: http://www.gafi.gov.eg/
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- LLC: EGP 3,000 (approximately $190)
- JSC: EGP 6,000 (approximately $380)
- Branch of a foreign company: EGP 6,000 (approximately $380)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the Egyptian Tax Authority. This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://www.incometax.gov.eg/
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. You should check with the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
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