Lawyer for Foreigners in Egypt

Complete Guide: Legal Services for Foreigners in Egypt (2026)

Egypt is one of the most popular destinations for foreigners seeking marriage, business opportunities, or long-term residence. Navigating the Egyptian legal system as a foreigner requires expert legal guidance. Counselor Mohamed Khaled Abdel Hady has been providing specialized legal services to foreigners in Egypt since 2010, serving over 40 nationalities with a 100% success rate.

Why You Need a Specialized Lawyer for Foreign Affairs in Egypt

Egyptian law regarding foreigners is complex and constantly evolving. The primary legislation includes Law No. 89 of 1960 (entry and residency of foreigners), Law No. 25 of 1920 (marriage and divorce, as amended), Law No. 120 of 1980 (administrative procedures), and various ministerial decrees. A specialized lawyer ensures compliance with all applicable laws and avoids costly mistakes.

Foreign Marriage Documentation in Egypt

Documenting a foreign marriage in Egypt involves registering the marriage contract with the competent Egyptian authorities — either the Marriage Documentation Office affiliated with the Ministry of Justice or the Family Court. The process requires specific documents including translated and authenticated birth certificates, valid passports, a no-objection certificate from the embassy, medical examination, and personal photos. The process typically takes 2-8 weeks depending on the legal pathway chosen.

Three legal pathways for foreign marriage documentation:

• Ministry of Justice Pathway: The fastest route (2-4 weeks) when a no-objection certificate from the embassy is available
• Marriage by Power of Attorney: Allows completing the marriage without either party present in Egypt (approximately 30 days)
• Court Testimony: When no-objection certificate is unavailable, file a lawsuit before the Family Court (45-60 days)

Residency Permits for Foreigners in Egypt

Foreigners in Egypt can obtain temporary residency (1 year, renewable), permanent residency (5 years, renewable), work permits, or family reunification residency. The main requirements include a valid passport (6+ months), proof of address, health insurance, financial proof, and a clean criminal record. Processing time varies from 2 weeks to 3 months.

Company Formation for Foreigners in Egypt

Foreigners can establish companies in Egypt under the Investment Law No. 72 of 2017. Options include Limited Liability Company (LLC), branch office, representative office, or joint venture with an Egyptian partner. The process involves obtaining a General Authority for Investment (GAFI) approval, commercial registration, tax registration, and all necessary licenses.

Real Estate Ownership for Foreigners in Egypt

Foreigners can own property in Egypt under Law No. 230 of 1996 (as amended). The law allows ownership of up to 2 residential units (apartment or villa) per foreign person, with specific area requirements. The purchase process involves title verification, due diligence, contract drafting, and registration with the Real Estate Publicity Department.

Contract Review Services

We provide expert bilingual (Arabic/English) contract review services for marriage contracts, commercial agreements, employment contracts, real estate transactions, and partnership agreements. Our team ensures your rights are protected and all terms comply with Egyptian law.

Why Choose Counselor Mohamed Khaled Abdel Hady?

• 15+ years of specialized experience in foreign affairs law
• 1200+ marriage contracts successfully documented
• 40+ nationalities served from around the world
• 100% success rate in legal procedures
• Bilingual Arabic/English service
• Transparent pricing with detailed cost estimates before starting
• Daily case tracking with instant updates
• Serving clients from all areas of Egypt — Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahel, Alexandria, and worldwide — remote or in-person consultations